Matheran is a charming hill station situated in the Raigad District of Maharashtra state. Perched at the Matheran ranges of Sahyadri Mountains this picturesque hill station is at a height of about 800 meters above sea level. Matheran or 'forest on top’ was discovered by Hugh Poyntz Malet, the then British collector of Thane district in 1850. The place was later developed by Lord Elphinstone, the Governor of Bombay. The colonial ambiance is still visible in the town in its stone villas, graveyards and churches.
Matheran is among the eco-sensitive regions in the world where motored vehicles are banned from entering the hill station limits. This quaint town with its lush green hills and untouched country side is known for 33 lookout points which offer a splendid view of the low lying plains and valleys. Another favorite attraction of Matheran is the toy train ride. Matheran attracts thousands of tourists who come here to relax and enjoy the tranquility and old world charm of this scenic hill station.
Best time to visit Matheran is during the months of September to May.
Places to Visit in Matheran
Panorama Point
This point is famous for the beautiful view of sunrise. Panorama point is also very popular picnic spot and tourists can see the spell binding sight of the surrounding locations like Chanderi, Navara-Navari, Peb Fort and Mhas-Mal from this point.
Echo Point
As the name suggests this place is famous for hearing the acoustic echoes from the valleys.
Alexander Point
This point provides splendid views of the Palasdari Lake, Rambaug Point, the Chowk valley and the Ulhas River.
Charlotte Lake
This lake is the source of the city’s drinking water. Charlotte Lake which offers one of the most scenic sights in town is flanked by the Pisarnath Temple on the left, and the Echo Point and Louisa Point on the right. Charlotte Lake is a popular picnic spot.
One Tree Hill Point
One Tree Hill is named after the only Jambul Tree present on the hill top. The downhill path is named as Shivaji Ladder and this is a great place for trekking amidst green pastures.
Hart Point
Hart point offers a spectacular view of the plains below. It also offers a splendid view of Mumbai city at night. This place is visited my many tourists.
Louisa Point
Louisa Point offers a fantastic view of the ruined forts of Prabal and Vishalgarh. Lion’s head viewpoint is also located nearby. The place is ideal for taking leisurely stroll and also watching sunset.
Porcupine Point
Porcupine Point is located at a distance of 4 km from the main market. This view point is popular place to watch the setting sun. The place located amidst thick forests is very popular among the tourists.
How to Reach Matheran
The nearest airport is in Mumbai which is around 100 km away. Nearest railhead is in Neral which is about 59 km away from Matheran. Neral is well connected to other major cities like Pune, Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra. From Neral you can take a toy train to Matheran and the toy-train journey takes one and a half hours. Matheran is connected to neighbouring cities by public transport bus services.
Accommodation
Matheran has plenty of accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to simple lodges which cater to different budgets of the tourists.