Matheran, a picturesque, unspoilt hill station at an altitude of 800 metres is cloaked in green. Matheran remains quiet and unpolluted, so far removed from the maddening chaos of big cities largely because no vehicles are allowed within the town.
The roads are still unpaved dirt tracks and the greenery is allowed to have its way. The countryside remains untouched and beautiful, even though Matheran has been a popular tourist destination for decades. Thick, shady forests, steep cliffs that veer up to dizzying heights, a silent waterfall, a lonely river, red soil and velvet moss for miles around you. The pleasing disorderliness of Matheran lulls you into the realization that big city life has surely got to be very far, far away.
How to Reach Matheran?
By Air : Mumbai is the nearest airport at a distance of 100 kms from Matheran.
By Rail : Take a train to Neral on the Mumbai Pune line - a journey of 2 hours and then onto a toy train for Matheran.
By Road : Matheran is connected to Pune and Mumbai via Neral. Several State Transport buses ply from Mumbai and Pune to Neral.
Best Time to Visit Matheran
The best time to visit Matheran is from October to May when the weather is pleasant enough to enjoy sightseeing and explore outdoors.
From March to May, during the summer season, the temperature may rise up to a maximum of 35°C and hence avoid visiting during summer months.
If you wish to explore the natural beauty of the place, lush greenery and the cascading waterfalls, visit during the monsoon months, when the water gushes down with full force.
Things to do in Matheran
Picturesque Matheran offers a variety of things to do. Enjoy the scenic beauty of this hill station as you ride on the toy train or shop for leather articles, hats, honey and of course chikki – the famous sweet here. Outdoor enthusiasts can further explore the beauty of this hill resort through the striking landscapes, rivulets, and streams. Delve into the variety of cuisines available here. Take a trip to Lonavala and Khandala near Mumbai for some adventure and shopping. If you are seeking some peaceful moments away from the hustle bustle of the city life then Matheran is a perfect holiday destination for you.
Places Near Matheran
Karnala, Lonavala, Elephanta cave and Mumbai are some of the interesting places near Matheran that one may visit on a day trip from here.
Situated at a distance of 59 kms from Matheran is Karnala. Renowned for its Karnala Fort and Bird Sanctuary, Karnala is a must-visit if you are ardent bird watchers, love nature and are trekking enthusiasts.
Lonavala, located 63 kms away from Matheran, is a breathtaking hill station popular for lakes and dams. The Tung Fort, the Pawna Lake, Tungarli Dam, Valavan Lake, Tungarli Lake and the Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary are the places to visit in Lonavala. You may also enjoy trekking in Lonavala.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the renowned Elephanta Caves are located 71 kms away from Matheran. Explore the unique collections of rock-art in India at Elephanta caves.
Another interesting place near Matheran that you may like to visit is Mumbai. Located at a distance of 89 kms from Matheran, Mumbai is a tourists’ delight with numerous attractions. Some of the prominent attractions of Mumbai include the popular beaches like Juhu Beach, Chowpatty and Gorai, temples and mosques like Siddhivinayak Temple and Haji Ali Mosque for the religious minded among various others.
Hotels in Matheran – Choice is Yours
There are numerous hotels in Matheran ranging from 3-star, 4-star and 5-star deluxe to budget hotels.