Matheran Travel Essentials

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"Cutest little hill-station of India"

Matheran Tourism

Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range on the Western Ghats, Matheran is a cosy little hill station that stands at an elevation of 2600 feet above sea level, and is just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, making it the perfect weekend getaway. With its name literally translating to “overhead forest”, Matheran is the smallest hill station in India but is extremely popular in terms of tourists looking for a short trip amid spectacular vistas and serenity.

Matheran is one of the very few places in the world that do not allow any vehicles at all, so the moment you step into this little town, you will be transported back to an idyllic old-world era of red-soiled roads, automobile-free pathways, and lush green hills all around. The cold breeze and the fresh air devoid of pollution is reason enough for tourists to throng to Matheran all year round.

As with any other hill station, Matheran is famous for its viewpoints. It has a total of 36 viewpoints from where you can enjoy alluring views of the Sahyadri mountain range. Most of these points have easy trekking trails, and they offer sweeping views of the mountains, the sunrise, sunset, and everything in between. A favourite for trekkers, the actual magic of Matheran is experienced while exploring the region on foot and getting lost in the beauty of the serene town.

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Matheran Trek

Matheran is as famous for its treks as for its viewpoints. The trek route to Matheran is via Garbett Plateau to reach Garbett Point, starting from Bhivpuri station. The climb up to Garbett Point is easy. However, the route is a bit long. The difficulty level is otherwise easy, barring the sun and heat which can drain you of energy. This trekking experience is perfect for adventure and nature lovers alike. The best time to embark on this journey is during May - October when the weather is cool and pleasant. 

Pro-tip: During the monsoon season, it is necessary to keep an eye on snakes that might come your way during your journey through the forests. 

Matheran Toy Train

‘Phul Rani’ is a small 2 feet gauge line toy train service connecting Neral to Matheran. It is an astounding experience, meandering tourists up the hill, treating them with the amazing scenic beauty of greenery and hill-top view. This small ride of around half an hour is enjoyed by kids and adults alike. There is no advance booking to be made for seats. Booking takes place at Aman Lodge at Dasturi Park, 45 minutes in advance.

Timings: 7 trains run in a day within a gap of 1-1.30 hours, starting at 9.30 AM. The last train from Aman Lodge is at 3.30 PM.

Cost: 1st class tickets cost INR 300 per head for adults and INR 180 per head for children. 2nd class tickets cost INR 45 per head for an adult and INR 30 per head for children.

Restaurants and Local Food in Matheran

Matheran is a tiny surprise given the variety of cuisine it offers. Indulge in Gujarati, Maharashtrian, Chinese, Moghlai and Punjabi cuisines across the many restaurants of the town. The standout items than one must try, while here include the staple Vada Paav, an authentic and rich range of kebabs, as well as some Chikki, a popular sweet in the area. Also, sip into some refreshing Kokum Sharbat. Liquor is also available but only in certain restaurants.
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Matheran Photos

Matheran, Maharashtra
Alexander point
Hart point
Honeymoon hill

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FAQs on Matheran

What are the places near Matheran?

The top places near to Matheran are Lonavala which is 30 km from Matheran, Mumbai which is located 42 km from Matheran, Kamshet which is located 38 km from Matheran, Khandala which is located 27 km from Matheran, Rajmachi which is located 22 km from Matheran

What are the things to do in Matheran?

The top things to do in Matheran are Louisa point, Panorama Point, Charlotte lake, Monkey point, Matheran, Echo point, Matheran, Porcupine point. You can see all the places to visit in Matheran here

What is the best way to reach Matheran?

Neral is the closest railway station on Mumbai-Pune line and is just 21 km away from Matheran. From Neral, you can board the Matheran Hill railway, which is one of the 6 mountain railways in India. This railway route is very picturesque and is under consideration by UNESCO for the World Heritage Site station. Otherwise, you can take a cab or a bus from nearby towns to a place close to Matheran (3km) and take horse-rides or walk or man-pulled rickshaws from there to reach Matheran. (Automobiles are not allowed inside Matheran and hence one has to use these pollution free methods.)
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What is the local food in Matheran?

Matheran is a tiny surprise given the variety it offers. Indulge in Gujarati, Maharashtrian, Chinese, Moghlai and Punjabi cuisines across the many restaurants of the town. The standout items than one must try, while here, include the staple Vada Paav , an authentic and rich range of kebabs, as well as some Chikki , a popular sweet in the area. Also sip into some refreshing Kokum Sharbat . Liquor is also available but only in certain restaurants.
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What is the best time to visit Matheran?

The best time to visit Matheran is Summer from March - June. Being a hill station you can visit any time of the year as it has a charming and calm weather that bewitches tourists. Regardless, summers are the best respite from other cities. 

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Who should visit Matheran?

Matheran is a huge attraction for trekkers and photographers who wish to explore nature. The city is a popular weekend getaway for people from Pune and Mumbai who wish to relax in a calm environment.

What is not so good about Matheran?

Getting around the hill station involves a lot of walking.

What is famous about Matheran?

Extremely beautiful and lush green. Vehicle-free zone. Clean, no pollution.

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Popular Questions And Answers on Matheran

Q. Is the toy train in Matheran is presently running?

Rohan Padmane

4 years ago
I don't know.
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Q. Is the road to dasturi naka drivable via car.... Or we should take a toy train...? Any idea if toy train is working?

Holidify

5 years ago
The road till Dasturi Naka is driveable, beyond which you have two options, Walk or take the Toy Train. The Toy Trains are operational since 30th October 2017. Have a Happy Holiday.
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Q. I'm planning a trip to Matheran next week. What kind of woollens do you suggest that I carry?

Sushant Prabhu

5 years ago
It shouldn't be that cold . carry a warmer and make sure you pack light as there is a lot of walking to be done.
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Matheran Reviews

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Mahesh Patil

5 years ago
sir Matheran is great place of freshness , thank you so much for your great info. "Link Hidden"

Yash K

3 years ago
Matheran is overrated. Don't get fooled by the pictures you see on the Internet. Mahabaleshwar is way better. Matheran has nothing to do and see. It's way costly and heat is too much to handle. Just (Read More)don't.

Best Games

5 years ago
Matheran is great holiday hill station place where you can go with your friends n family. There is mini train to reach out which is very unique and beautiful. I think 3-4 days best to explore Mathera (Read More)n
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