The little hill station of Matheran, 108 km east of Mumbai, is set on the narrow north south ridge, at an altitude of 800m in the Sahyadri Range. The town itself, shrouded in thick mist for much of the year, one of the unique attributes of the town is prohibition of cars, buses, motorbikes and auto rickshaws enter the town. Best way to chugs it way through spectacular scenery to the crest of hill by a miniature train.

Matheran is a popular retreat to get rid of the humid of Mumbai. The tourist season lasts from mid September to mid June. There is really nothing up here to do but relax, wander the woods on foot or horseback, and enjoy the fresh air and views. This beautiful hill station perched at a height of 2,500 feet. The green surroundings and silence of the woods beckons many tourists every year to relax in this small hill station for few days. Matheran was discovered by an Englishman Hugh Mallet in 1850. Since there has been little changed in the town, only noticeable change catching eyes is the growth of hotels to satisfy hordes of travelers. Thick cover of forest acts like giant air conditioning keeping the hill station cool and a walker’s paradise. Nice long walk following the forest train while unknown languages of countless birds entertain throughout the path. Another option to explore the town by horse back or rent a hand pull carts.

Sights And Activities

The Makers Of Matheran
Matheran was discovered by Hugh Poyntz Malet, collector of Thane District in 1850. The place has number of attractive places named after his finder. Malet Spring marks where the man once stopped for water. Matheran became more accessible during the time of Lord Elphinstone. Elphinstone Lodge is another great place to see.

Point- to- Point Tour
Matheran has 38 points at which one can get a glimpse of nature's beauty. Panorama Point, the most sought after point is almost 5 km north of the market, a small and refreshing trek to the place during monsoon or winter is delightful. From here you get a bird’s eye view of Neral town and, on a clear day, even as far as Mumbai in the west. The shaded walk to Hart Point and Monkey Point is rewarding in itself. The good place for bird lovers, the place is densely covered by forest. If you want to see the mesmerizing sunset, you have walk to the Porcupine Point. Louisa Point , to the west of the market, offers an undisturbed view of the ruins of Prabal Fort and also grass topped hills. The Windy tree hill point is a scenic point, especially just after monsoon. Another must on every itinerary of Charlotte Lake, fringed by forest and with Pisharnath Temple.

Shopping
Matheran is also known as ‘chikkaland’. This caramel confection is made up of jaggery with nuts, peas or sesame seed, cut into slabs or cubes. There are also scrumptious fudge to pick up. Salted chana and fresh honey are other must buys from the bazaar, which runs along the railway station road.