Spend A Day At Matheran, A Hill Station That Has Plenty Of Nature To Offer

As easy as it would be to guess, this point in Matheran offers a complete panoramic view of the majestic Western Ghats and a slice of Maharashtra's countryside (yes, we have a beautiful countryside too). One of the most scenic spots in Matheran, it is seldom as crowded as the other popular spots as it requires you to trek up to it. As the wise men say, "You've got to earn the goodness, it just doesn't come so easy." It is an ideal picnic spot from where you can feast on a gorgeous sunrise or sunset too. And if lucky enough, you will get a glimpse of the toy train chugging through the Western Ghats below. If for nothing else, gotta do this for the gram, peeps!

Yet another spot that is popular for trekking to, Alexander Point is located about 2 kilometres from Matheran Railway Station. It is also a well-known spot to head to, to beat the heat and take a chill pill in Matheran. It offers beautiful panoramic views of other points like Palasdari Lake, Garbett Point and Chowk Point. If you're looking for a quiet and serene nature path to take a walk on, this is it. Head to Alexander Point to enjoy unadulterated beauty like never before.

Echo Point is one of the most unique spots in Matheran. Let's just say it is a physics class where you will observe application of what you studied in school. As the name suggests, this point is famous for the reverb and the echoes it generates. With the beautiful Sahyadri mountains in the distance, it is a picturesque spot to make a beautiful memory and capture it.

P.S: Get a taste of local Maharashtrian cuisine from the few shops and stalls right there. We're thinking kothimbir wadi, are you too?

Situated at a stone's throw from the main market of Matheran, Charlotte Lake is the main source of fresh drinking water for the residents of Matheran. While you're here, check out the Pisharnath Mahadev Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Tourists are asked to take special care to keep the area clean while they visit keeping in mind the importance this lake holds for the residents.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit the lake is during the monsoon when the dam from where the lake originates overflows and creates a picturesque waterfall, an absolute treat for the eyes. 

One might wonder what a hill-station has to offer other than the picturesque landscape and greens as far as the eyes can see. Head to Mall Road to get your hands on kickass Kolhapuri footwear; pair it with a nice desi dress and you'll be slayin' the look. There's also some delicious chikki, and simple Indian handicraft items for those who are into them. We promise you that you're going to be spoilt for choice!

Shop The Chappals From: Tip Top Footwear. The Kolhapuri chappals here are reasonably priced and high quality. 

Shell Out: INR 350 onward for Kolhapuri chappals 

The Neral-Matheran toy train connects the base village of Neral to the hill-station vis a 21 kilometres long railway line. It was built under the supervision of Adamji Peerbhoy in 1900 and is now under the control of Central Railways. Even though it might take slightly longer to get to Matheran than by road, it is definitely worth choosing to enjoy a beautiful journey through the mountains and nature from the base to the top.

Timings: There are 3 trains that ply daily at 9:20AM, 2:45PM and 4:20PM. 

Shell Out: Tickets start at INR 45 (Second Class)

This is one of the most thrilling activities to indulge in, when in Matheran. The adventurer in you will love the experience of descending from a rock/slope with water gushing down. There are a lot of local groups there that you can approach. They use high-quality ropes as well as the necessary devices like descenders, seat harnesses, helmets, and gloves for rappelling. An experience of a lifetime, we'd say! 

Best Time For Rappelling: July to October

Shell Out: Groups usually charge between INR 1,000 to INR 1,500 per person. 

P.S: If you're not game for rappelling, you can still go and admire the beauty of the Dodhani waterfall. 

Matheran happens to have a culturally rich background and heritage. And one of the specimens is the Ambarnath Shiv Temple. Located 37 kilometers from the hill station and situated on the banks of the Waldhuni River, this Hindu temple was constructed by King Mahamandaleshwar in 1060 CE as a tribute to his ancestors. It is carved out of stone and represents the Hemadpanthi architectural style. Fascinating, no? 

Timings: 6AM to 8PM

There aren't too many exceptional food options in Matheran, but you can try out the Garden View restaurant for a humble thali, Rasna restaurant for some Tandoori rotis and veg Jalfrezi, and Shabbir Bhai's for decent Biryani. Also, your vehicle, whether privately owned or hired, will not be allowed beyond the Dasturi Point before Matheran. Thereon, you can choose to take the toy train from Aman Lodge to Matheran Railway Station or hire a pony or hand-pulled rickshaw. The best way we'd suggest is to trek it to the top if you are the outdoorsy type.