Matheran

Nestled in the beautiful Western Ghats is the small hill station of Matheran which means 'forest on the forehead'. It is a lush green area that is Asia's only automobile-free hill station making it a perfect weekend getaway from the regular urban clutter as you dive into the peace of nature and refreshing environment.

It offers red-soiled paths and panoramic viewpoints like Panorama Point and Louisa Point, Matheran offers scenic views of the Sahyadri ranges and deep valleys. You can explore this hill station on foot or by horseback, adding a unique old-world charm to your journey.

A unique experience to have at Matheran is riding a toy train for commuting, exploring colonial-era architecture, and shopping for local handicrafts at the bustling market near the station. The cool climate throughout the year makes it a pleasant spot to visit, especially during the monsoon and winter seasons.

Whether you're a nature lover or simply seeking a calm break, Matheran tour packages promise a refreshing and memorable hill retreat.

1. Type of destination- Hill station, adventure, nature.

2. Prime season- March to June

3. Languages spoken- Marathi, Hindi, and English.

4. Local Modes of transport available- 

• On foot
• Horses
• Hand-pulled Rickshaws
• Toy Train

 How to Reach Matheran

•  By Air- To reach Matheran by air, the nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, located around 100 km away. Another option is Pune Airport, which is approximately 120 km from Matheran. From either airport, travellers can hire a private cab or take a train or bus to Neral, the base station for Matheran. From Neral, further travel is required by road or via the narrow-gauge toy train.

•  By Railways- By train, Neral Junction is the nearest major railway station, well connected to both Mumbai and Pune via the Central Railway network. Several local and express trains stop at Neral, making it a convenient point to begin the final stretch of the journey. From Neral, travellers can choose the historic Matheran Hill Railway toy train (subject to availability and weather) or take a taxi up to Dasturi Naka, the last point where vehicles are allowed.

• By Roadways- For road travel, Matheran is accessible via well-maintained highways from both Mumbai (approx. 80–90 km) and Pune (approx. 120–130 km). Visitors need to drive or take a cab/bus to Dasturi Car Point, where all motorized vehicles must be parked. From there, Matheran must be reached on foot, on horseback, or by the toy train for the final 2–3 km.

Weather in Matheran

Summer in Matheran

• Months- March to June
• Avg. temperature- 22 to 39 degrees C
• Weather- Pleasant weather with cooler temperatures than normal
• Crowd density- High
• Budget- High
• Clothes to pack- Lightweight and breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection like hat or caps.

 Monsoon in Matheran

• Months- July to September
• Avg. temperature- 20 to 28 degrees C
• Weather- Heavy rainfall but lush greenery
• Crowd density- Low
• Budget- Low
• Clothes to pack- Rain gear, quick-drying light clothes, comfortable walking and hiking shoes, and extra clothing sets.

 Winter in Matheran

• Months- October to February
• Avg. temperature- 11 to 25 degrees C
• Weather- Misty dawns, warm days, and chilly evenings.
• Crowd density- Moderate
• Budget- Moderate
• Clothes to pack- Warm clothing like sweaters, jackets, long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts, clothes that can be layered like gloves, scarves, headbands, and sturdy walking or hiking shoes.

Best places to visit in Matheran

These are the most popular places to visit in Matheran and are must-inclusions on your Matheran tour!

A. Panorama Point – Known as the sunrise point of Matheran, this spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. It’s a peaceful place to start your day and catch the first light breaking over the Western Ghats.

B. Louisa Point – One of the most scenic spots in Matheran, Louisa Point gives you a stunning view of the Prabal Fort and the lush valley below. It’s a favourite during sunset and is ideal for photography lovers.

C. Charlotte Lake – A peaceful and serene spot surrounded by forest, Charlotte Lake is perfect for nature walks and picnics. There’s also a small Lord Shiva temple nearby, adding a touch of spirituality.

D. Monkey Point – As the name suggests, you’ll find plenty of monkeys here! But beyond that, this spot offers great views and a refreshing breeze, making it a fun detour.

E. Porcupine Point (Sunset Point) – Another popular viewpoint, it’s known for its golden sunset views and quiet vibe. It’s the perfect place to end a day of sightseeing.

F. Echo Point – A fun stop, especially for kids, where your voice bounces back from the surrounding hills!

Top things to do in Matheran

The most popular activities to try in Matheran can make your trip fun, peaceful, and full of beautiful memories!

A. Ride the Toy Train – One of the best things to do in Matheran is to take the toy train from Neral. This cute little train moves slowly through forests and hills, giving amazing views along the way. It’s a must-try for all ages!

B. Watch the Sunrise at Panorama Point – Wake up early and walk to Panorama Point to see the sun rise above the hills. The sky changes colors and the view is peaceful and stunning.

C. Horse Riding – Since cars are not allowed in Matheran, horse riding is a fun and easy way to explore the town. You can ride through red-soil trails, forests, and viewpoints like Louisa Point and Echo Point.

D. Enjoy a Picnic at Charlotte Lake – Surrounded by trees and birds, Charlotte Lake is perfect for a quiet picnic. You can sit by the water and relax in nature.

E. Shop at Matheran Market – The local market sells handmade items, chikki (sweet snack), and leather goods. It’s a great place to take back souvenirs!

These simple activities make your Matheran trip peaceful, playful, and memorable.

Adventures to try in Matheran

Here is a list of some fun adventure activities that you can enjoy while visiting Matheran:

A. Trekking in Matheran – Matheran is full of walking trails through forests, red mud paths, and hills. Garbett Point, Panorama Point, and One Tree Hill are some popular points that you can trek to as these treks are easy to moderate and are full of natural beauty.

B. Valley Crossing – One of the most thrilling things to do in Matheran is valley crossing. It is a short and exciting ride where you are tied to a harness and made to slide across a deep valley, usually between Louisa Point and Honeymoon Point.

C. Horse Riding – A fun way to explore Matheran is on horseback as it's safe and guided. You can enjoy this with your family as you ride through the forest trails to visit different viewpoints.

D. Ziplining – In Matheran, you can enjoy ziplining activities where you get to slide through the air while enjoying great views.

E. Camping and Bonfires – If you stay overnight then you try camping under the stars. Some spots offer bonfire nights with music and local food, making your trip even more special.

Matheran’s adventures are simple, exciting, and full of nature’s charm!

Cuisine to try in Matheran

Matheran has a mixed food culture of Maharashtrian and Gujarati dishes. Here is a list of top local dishes to try-

• Vada Pav
• Misal
• Usal
• Nimbu Paani
• Chocolate Fudge
• Chikki
• Kokum Sharbat

Note: Matheran offers both pure-vegetarian and good non-vegetarian options too.

Dining Places in Matheran

 Here are some popular dining places in Matheran that you can enjoy with your friends and family:

A. Garden View Restaurant – Located at MG Road, They offer a variety of food options including Indian, Chinese, and Punjabi dishes at an affordable price making it a popular choice for families and groups.

B. Shabbir Bhai Biryaniwala – Located near Merry Road, they serve good quality biryanis, kebabs, and tandoori items making it a go-to spot for North Indian cuisine.

C. Panorama Restaurant – Part of Hotel Panorama on Kasturba Road, it serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. It's budget-friendly and appreciated for its courteous service.

D. Konkan Katta – A small outlet near the toy train station, offering regional seafood and vegetarian dishes with authentic coastal flavours.

E. Amantran Corner – A cosy family-run place in the market having fresh, home-style Indian meals—inexpensive and well-loved.

Resorts and Stays in Matheran

 A. Adamo The Resort & Adamo The Village – These sister properties near Echo Point Road offer clean rooms, friendly staff, and a pretty garden. Adamo The Village also has a refreshing outdoor pool, and many families love it.

B. The Byke Brightland Adventure Park & Resort – Just a short walk from the toy train station, this place is famous for its pool, indoor games room, and big green lawns. Guests say it's fun and relaxing.

C. Scarlet Resort – A small but loved resort with a pool and restaurant. It has a cosy feel and great guest reviews.

D. The Wayside Inn – Located on MG Road, this resort has a pool, garden, and room service. It is praised for its helpful staff.

E. Alexander Heritage and Rainforest Resort – Set in a quiet forest area, this resort is pet-friendly and perfect for couples looking for privacy.

These stays offer a mix of comfort, nature, and easy access to Matheran’s scenic spots.

Nightlife in Matheran

Nighttime in Matheran is simple, peaceful, and full of nature’s charm!

• Stargazing – With almost no city lights, the sky lights up with stars. Many visitors love watching constellations from spots like Panorama Point or Echo Point.
• Bonfires – Many resorts host cosy bonfires on chilly nights. You can gather around, chat, and enjoy the warmth with new friends.
• Silent Discos – At select hotels, you can dance under the stars with wireless headphones on—fun and peaceful without noise pollution.
• Night Walks – Take a guided or solo walk along forest trails. The quiet, moonlit paths feel magical, but just be safe and stick to the main routes.
• Late-Night Local Bites – A few small stalls and eateries stay open late. You can sip hot tea, try local snacks, and soak in calm evening vibes.

Shopping in Matheran

Enjoy shopping for local and unique items in Matheran –

• Kolhapuri Chappals
• Leather Bags and Wallets
• Nariman’s Chikki
• Pure Forest Honey
• Handmade Cane Baskets

Note: You can also explore stalls for local spices, wooden toys, fruit jams, and pottery souvenirs.

Markets and Shopping centres to explore in Matheran

 Here are some markets to shop from during your Matheran tour-

• Ratanbai Pestonjee Kapadia Memorial Market – This open-air lane market on MG Road is filled with local stalls selling Kolhapuri chappals, leather bags, wallets, honey, chikki, fruits, and vegetables. A colourful place to stroll and shop outdoors.
• Tip Top Footwear – A go-to shop for high-quality Kolhapuri chappals at reasonable, even wholesale prices. Perfect if you want durable, traditional footwear.
• Nariman Chikki Mart – Famous for a variety of chikki sweets and pure honey. A top pick for taking home delicious Matheran treats.
• Leather & Handicraft Stores – Boutiques like Shoe-Shine’s and Bhagyashree Bags sell leather belts, wallets, handbags, and local crafts such as cane items, pottery, and sweets – great souvenirs.

Off-beat places to visit in Matheran

 Here is a list of offbeat spots in Matheran that offer quiet treks, historic forts, and rarely seen vistas—perfect for curious explorers looking for something different!

•  Garbett Point – A hidden gem, about a 5 km trek from Matheran station. You’ll find 360° views of forests, Morbe Dam, Irshalgad, and waterfalls. It’s peaceful and less crowded than the usual spots.
• Shivaji’s Ladder – A historic forest trail believed to be used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This rugged route rewards trekkers with dense greenery and a taste of history—an adventure and a lesson in one.
• Vikatgad (Peb Fort) – Just 8 km from Matheran, this offbeat fort offers a moderate 2–3 hour trek through cliffs and valleys. The ruins, cave temples, and cisterns add mystery and fun to the hike.
• Irshalgad Fort – A quieter sister to Prabalgad, this 6.5 km round-trip trek features a steep ridge and serene plateau. It’s less crowded and perfect for a calm day trip.
• Malanggad (Malang Point) – A high-elevation fort and viewpoint rising to around 3,200 ft. Explore ancient ruins, enjoy cool breezes, and feel far removed from the usual tourist trail.

Festivals and Events in Matheran

Matheran lights up with colour during its yearly festivals and events, blending nature with local culture!

• Ganesh Chaturthi (Aug–Sept): Celebrated on the MG road or in the market area, this is the biggest festival here, with vibrant processions, decorated Ganesha idols, music, and local feasts.
• Gudi Padwa & Ram Navmi (March–April): Celebrated near the Ram Temple and local streets, these spring festivals welcome new beginnings with colourful decorations, temple visits, processions, and sweets.
• Weekly Sunday Fair: It is a great place to shop for fresh vegetables, local honey, chikki, and fruits, and enjoy street food as the main market becomes lively every Sunday.
• Matheran Mahotsav (May): Organised by the local municipality, this is a cultural festival featuring music, dance, and art shows giving a platform for local talents to shine.

To join in, plan visits around these dates and stay near MG Road for easy access to celebrations and markets.

Key Experiences to Have in Matheran

1. Ride the Matheran Toy Train: Riding the heritage toy train that runs between Neral and Matheran is one of the iconic experiences to have here. The route is through forested hills, tunnels, and beautiful valleys making it a slow and scenic ride full of charm.

2. Watch Sunrise or Sunset from a Point: Matheran has over 30 viewpoints, but Panorama Point and Porcupine Point are the most famous. Wake up early or visit in the evening to see the sky change colours and the hills light up with golden rays—truly magical moments.

3. Go Horse Riding: Horses are a natural mode of commute here in Matheran as it is a no-motor zone. On horseback, you can ride to various points while enjoying the beauty of this hill station.

4. Try Local Food and Chikki: Vada pav, corn bhutta, and fresh fruits are some of the famous local foods of Matheran. One must-try item is the famous Matheran chikki and honey which you can also take as souvenirs.

5. Explore Hidden Trails and Forests: The semi-dense forest areas of Matheran create a great path for quiet walks leading to viewpoints and waterfalls. You can also explore the Shivaji's Ladder, a less-explored scenic trail that also holds historical value.

6. Relax at a Heritage Resort: Stay at a colonial-era bungalow or heritage resort with big verandas and nature views. It’s the best way to unwind, read a book, or just listen to birds chirping all day long.

These experiences make Matheran a peaceful escape from city life, perfect for nature lovers and slow travellers.

Tips

• Make sure to negotiate the rates for horse rides or hand-pulled rickshaws before starting your ride. It’s always better to ask multiple vendors to avoid overpaying.
• Keep your identity card with you at all times, especially while booking hotels or entering through checkpoints like Dasturi Naka.
• Since Matheran is a walking destination, wear comfortable walking shoes with a good grip for the red mud trails.
• Always carry a light jacket as evenings can get cool, even in summer, and the weather can be unpredictable.
• If you're visiting during the monsoon, pack a raincoat or umbrella as the hill station sees frequent showers.
• Mobile networks may not be stable everywhere; Jio and BSNL tend to work better in most areas.
• Carry some cash as digital payments are not accepted in many small shops and food stalls.
• Avoid plastic items as Matheran is a plastic-free zone; it’s advisable to carry reusable water bottles and bags.
• Book your hotel stays in advance during weekends or peak seasons to avoid last-minute price hikes.
• Finally, respect the eco-sensitive environment and avoid littering to keep Matheran clean and peaceful for all.

Interesting facts about Matheran

• Matheran is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, where motor vehicles are completely banned to preserve its natural environment. All travel within the town is done by foot, horses, or hand-pulled rickshaws.
• The name ‘Matheran’ means ‘Forest on the Forehead’, in Marathi—‘mathe’ means forehead, and ‘ran’ means forest—fitting its lush green location on the Western Ghats.
• Matheran was discovered in 1850 by Hugh Poyntz Malet, the then Collector of Thane, during the British era. It quickly became a popular summer retreat for colonial officials.
• The Matheran Light Railway is a UNESCO-recognized heritage railway, running since 1907 and known for its scenic journey with tight curves and lush views.
• There are over 30 viewpoints in Matheran, each offering a different angle of the valleys, hills, and sunrise/sunset views—more than most hill stations in India.
• The entire town of Matheran lies within an eco-sensitive zone, declared by the Ministry of Environment to ensure strict conservation of its biodiversity and wildlife.