In an era of rapid urban expansion, urban forests are vital green spaces for pollution mitigation, habitat provision, and community well-being. This research emphasises the urgent need to comprehend and protect such ecosystems in India, focusing on the Aravalli ranges in Gurugram. Threatened by urbanisation, these ranges face unique challenges and opportunities at the intersection of development and ecological conservation. The study examines anthropogenic determinants affecting the ecological resilience of this urban forest, employing a qualitative approach that includes empirical observations, Google Earth satellite images, field investigations, policy analysis, and stakeholder interviews. It uncovers the complex interactions between regulatory frameworks, land use changes, resource extraction, and biodiversity loss. Additionally, the research explores the ecosystem’s adaptive capacity to recover from human-induced disturbances, identifying critical thresholds and tipping points. The findings provide valuable insights for conservation and sustainable management strategies, enhancing understanding of the dynamics between human activities and ecosystem resilience.