Matheran Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Matheran with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, must-try dishes, culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Matheran

Nestled in North Konkan region of Maharashtra, Matheran is a charming hill station that is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is a municipality in the Raigad district and the smallest hill station in India. Situated at an elevation of 800 m above sea level, the town is a popular weekend retreat for locals and tourists from nearby cities such as Mumbai and Pune. The town is small and maintains an old-world charm, with no vehicles allowed inside. Visitors can explore the scenic town on foot, horseback, or by toy train.

List of Places to Visit in Matheran

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Charlotte Lake

Charlotte Lake located about 2 km from the market place is a picturesque site that attracts visitors with its placid waters, verdant greenery, and surrounding mountains. It is a major source of drinking water for the residents of the town.

Louisa Point

Louisa Point is located on a hill-top and offers stunning views of the valley, scenic waterfalls, and verdant forests. The point is named after Lady Louisa, the second wife of Lord Elphinstone, the British Governor of Bombay.

Panorama Point

Panorama Point, also known as Sunrise Point, is the highest point in Matheran and hikers should make the effort to see the sun rise from this vantage point. The panoramic view from the point includes lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and views of Khandala and Karjat.

Natural Attractions of Matheran: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dodhani Waterfalls

Dodhani Waterfalls is located on the outskirts of Matheran, about 3 km away, and is a popular spot for picnics and trekking. The fall cascades down from a great height into a pool where visitors can take a dip.

One Tree Hill Point

One Tree Hill Point is located on a hilltop and is named after a single Jambhul tree that stands tall on the summit. Visitors get to see a bird’s eye view of the town, surrounded by forests and hills.

Khandala Point

Khandala Point is a vantage point that offers magnificent views of the Khandala and Karjat hills. The point is located near Charlotte Lake and is a great spot for a picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Matheran

Matheran has plenty of hiking and biking trails that offer glimpses of the town’s natural beauty. Here are some of the popular ones:

Garbut Point Trek

Garbut Point Trek is a 5 km long trek that starts from the market area and ends at Garbut Point. The scenic trek passes through diverse vegetation, dense forests, and offers an Enthralling view of the hill station and its surroundings.

Matheran to Bhivpuri Trek

The Matheran to Bhivpuri trek is a challenging trek that starts from Matheran and ends at Bhivpuri. The trek passes through hills, waterfalls, dense forests, and offers breathtaking views of the scenic surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Matheran: Activities and Tours

Toy Train Ride

A ride on the toy train is an experience not to be missed in Matheran. The toy train connects Neral to Matheran and passes through scenic landscapes, forests, and tunnels. The train offers a glimpse of the town’s old-world charm and offers a unique way to explore the town.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is a popular activity in Matheran, and visitors can hire horses and go for a ride around the town, and explore the nearby hills and valleys.

Week-Long Itinerary for Matheran

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Matheran and explore the town on foot
2 Trek to Garbut Point and explore Charlotte Lake
3 Take a toy train ride and visit One Tree Hill Point and Khandala Point
4 Visit Louisa Point and trek to Dodhani Waterfalls
5 Go for horse riding and explore nearby villages and valleys
6 Relax and indulge in local cuisine and culture
7 Depart Matheran for your next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Matheran

Matheran has a variety of local dishes and beverages that visitors should try.

Must-Try Dishes

Batata Vada

Batata Vada is a popular Maharashtrian snack that is a must-try in Matheran. It is a potato patty coated with gram flour and deep-fried until crispy.

Vada Pav

Vada Pav is a popular street food dish in Maharashtra, consisting of a deep-fried potato patty served inside a bread roll.

Local Beverages

Kokam Sherbet

Kokam Sherbet is a refreshing drink made from Kokam, a fruit that is native to the Maharashtra region.

Sol Kadhi

Sol Kadhi is a pink-coloured drink made from kokum, coconut milk, and spices. It is a refreshing drink that helps cool the body on hot days.

Where to Stay in Matheran: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Matheran has plenty of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

Budget Accommodation

Rahi Coral Resort

Rahi Coral Resort is a budget-friendly resort located near the market area. It has clean rooms, excellent service and boasts an outdoor pool and kids area.

Cecil Hotel

Cecil Hotel is a budget hotel located near the market area. It has comfortable rooms, a great restaurant, and excellent service.

Luxury Accommodation

The Verandah in the Forest

The Verandah in the Forest is a luxurious heritage hotel located in the heart of Matheran. It has spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a magnificent verandah that offers scenic views of the surroundings.

Usha Ascot

Usha Ascot is a luxury resort located near Charlotte Lake. It has premium rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and excellent dining options.

What to Buy in Matheran: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Matheran has several shops that sell local handicrafts, souvenirs, and knick-knacks. Visitors can buy:

  • Leather Goods
  • Handmade Mattresses
  • Chikki (an Indian snack made of nuts and jaggery)
  • Kolhapuri Chappals (a type of Indian handcrafted footwear)

Local Culture and Customs of Matheran

Matheran is a town that has retained much of its old-world charm and traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and etiquette:

  • Take off your shoes before entering someone’s home
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious places
  • Do not consume alcohol or non-vegetarian food in public places

Best Time to Visit Matheran

The best time to visit Matheran is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Matheran

Do:

  • Carry appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Use environment-friendly transport options

Don’t:

  • Carry plastic bags or disposables
  • Wear revealing clothes in public places
  • Litter the environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Matheran

Matheran is a safe place with a low crime rate. Visitors should take the necessary precautions to safeguard money and valuables.

Health in Matheran

Visitors should carry any necessary medication and take precautions against diseases such as malaria and dengue.

Getting to Matheran: Transportation Options and Logistics

Matheran is well-connected by air, rail, and road.

Airports Near Matheran

The nearest airport to Matheran is the Mumbai International Airport, about 44 km away.

Bus Stations Near Matheran

The nearest bus station to Matheran is located in Neral, which is about 21 km from Matheran. There are frequent buses to Matheran from Neral.

Other Options

Visitors can take a toy train ride from Neral to Matheran or hire a taxi from Neral to Matheran.

How to Get Around Matheran

Matheran is a pedestrian-friendly town, and visitors can explore the town on foot or hire a horse to ride around. Bicycles are not allowed inside the town.

Where to Go Next from Matheran: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mumbai is a bustling city, about 43 km from Matheran, and is a must-visit destination for history buffs and food lovers.
  • Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations located about 43 km from Matheran and are popular for their scenic beauty and pleasant weather.

Conclusion

Matheran is a scenic hill station that offers a perfect holiday destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With its picturesque landscapes, scenic trails, and local handicrafts, visitors can take back delightful memories from their trip to Matheran.

Matheran Railway Station and toy train Matheran Railway Station and toy train Matheran Station Matheran Station Matheran toy train Matheran toy train Matheran walking trail Matheran walking trail Charlotte Lake Charlotte Lake