Hi friends, my name is Kuldeep and I will share my real-life experience of my life’s one of the best visits to Hill station. So, just enjoy the experience written by me and get ready to visit one of the most wonderful places on the earth “The Matheran”. let’s know how to travel to Matheran.
How much does it cost to travel to Matheran?
If you’re planning to travel to Matheran by car, the costs are relatively reasonable. For our trip, we spent around ₹2,000 on petrol for the journey from Pune. In addition to fuel, we allocated another ₹1,000 for snacks along the way, which included local treats like bhajis, samosas, and Maggi noodles during our stops. Overall, the total cost for the trip amounted to approximately ₹3,000 for four people, covering both fuel and food expenses, making it an affordable and enjoyable road trip to this scenic hill station.
Which time is best for the Matheran trip?
In this busy life, if the mind gets peace for a few moments, then what can be said, is just icing on the cake. Matheran is a hill station located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. The height of Matheran is about 800 meters above sea level. Matheran is famous all over India as a place of cool air. Its beautiful views and greenery make you feel like you are in heaven on earth.
You can travel to Matheran any time of the year. It depends on your wish and choice of season.
In summer: How to travel to Matheran
If you want to enjoy the cool breeze of nature for a few moments in this scorching heat of the sun, then you can plan to go to Matheran. The temperature here during the winter months is between 16 to 30 degrees Celsius.
If you want to trek, then the summer season will be the best. Because at this time there is no fog in the air, due to which you can see well and far. And there is dry ground to climb.
In the rainy season:
If you want to experience Matheran as a paradise, then the rainy season is the best. At this time the Sahyadri mountains are at the peak of their beauty. The weather in Matheran has become green. You can see only smoke in the air. Waterfalls are seen everywhere.
You cannot see things more than 10 feet ahead of you. Due to rain, the road becomes very slippery, due to which you can get hurt. Sometimes even the toy train gets cancelled.
The Meteorological Department of India keeps warning you from time to time. When we went to visit Matheran, we got a message from IMD about the possibility of very heavy rain in Matheran.
Meaning of the above Image: The Indian Meteorological Department has warned of heavy rain at some places in Pune, Satara, and Kolhapur districts in the next 24 hours. However, citizens should be alert. Ministry Control Room
Winter season: How to travel to Matheran
People who like cold weather can enjoy Matheran, provided they do not get to experience beautiful waterfalls.
How to reach Matheran by road || How to reach Matheran from Pune?
Matheran, a charming hill station located near the Mumbai-Lonavala-Pune highway, is a perfect getaway for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat. Nestled amidst the lush Western Ghats, Matheran is known for its serene atmosphere, breathtaking views, and unique status as a vehicle-free zone. Its proximity to Pune and Mumbai makes it an ideal destination for a quick multi-spot picnic or a weekend getaway.
The Journey Begins
Our journey to Matheran started early in the morning. It was a rainy day, and the weather was cool, making it perfect for a monsoon road trip. I, along with three of my friends, decided to escape the hustle and bustle of Pune for a day and head to Matheran to enjoy nature at its best. We packed light and left Pune at around 7:30 am in my car. The plan was to reach Matheran by mid-morning, explore the scenic viewpoints, and return by evening.
Before we hit the road, we filled the car with ₹1,500 worth of petrol. The rain had been coming down steadily since morning, and it added an extra element of excitement to our journey. The drizzle created a mystical atmosphere as we drove through the green countryside, with the rain-soaked trees and misty hills setting the perfect mood for a peaceful adventure.
The Scenic Route
According to Google Maps, the distance from Hinjewadi, Pune, to Matheran was around 106 kilometers. However, due to detours and winding roads, the actual distance we covered turned out to be closer to 120 kilometers. We chose the scenic route via Pune-Lonavala-Karjat-Neral-Matheran, which took us through picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and lush green forests.
The drive itself was an experience to remember. As we moved along the highway, the rain continued, creating a beautiful and soothing ambiance. The hills around Lonavala and Karjat were covered in a thick blanket of greenery, with waterfalls cascading down the slopes. The smell of wet earth and fresh air made the drive all the more enjoyable.
After driving for a few hours, we decided to take a break at Karjat, a small town known for its street food and scenic surroundings. We parked the car and indulged in some delicious local snacks like bhajis and samosas. The warmth of the crispy bhajis and the spicy samosas was the perfect comfort food for a rainy day, giving us the energy to continue our journey.
Challenges Along the Way: How to travel to Matheran
As we resumed our drive from Karjat towards Matheran, the road conditions began to change. The first half of the journey had been smooth, but as we got closer to Matheran, we encountered several stretches of damaged roads. The continuous rainfall had taken a toll on the roads, making them slippery and full of potholes. Driving through these sections required extra caution and skill, as the vehicle would often skid, and navigating the large potholes was tricky.
Despite the challenging road conditions, we pushed forward. The beauty of the surrounding landscapes made up for the difficulties, and we were determined to reach our destination. However, as we neared Matheran, the drive became even more intense. The inclination of the roads started to increase significantly, and the paths grew narrower and more curvaceous.
The final stretch of the journey was the most daunting. The road inclined almost 45 degrees, and it was filled with sharp turns and steep climbs. To make matters worse, the heavy traffic and lack of parking space added to the stress. At one point, I found myself in a difficult situation where I couldn’t make a U-turn due to the sharp incline, and the traffic ahead made it impossible to move forward. The fear of losing control of the car on the steep, wet slope was overwhelming.
At that moment, I felt intense anxiety. I was sweating and could even feel my hearing become slightly impaired due to the stress. The steep, slippery road and the pressure of not being able to move or turn around made the situation very tense.
Arriving at Matheran
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we managed to navigate through the steep roads and parked the car at the last road turn before Matheran. A sense of relief washed over us as we got out of the car and stretched our legs. The rain had subsided a bit, and we could finally take in the fresh air and peaceful surroundings of Matheran.
As we approached the entrance to Matheran, a few horse owners tried to persuade us to take horse rides up to the main market area. While this is a common mode of transport in Matheran, we decided not to commit to anything right away. We preferred to explore the area on foot and take in the sights at our own pace.
One thing to note when visiting Matheran is that you’ll need to park your vehicle at Dasturi Naka, the last point accessible by cars, and from there, either walk, ride a horse, or take a hand-pulled rickshaw to explore the town. Parking fees are applicable at Dasturi Naka, so be prepared for that additional expense.
Exploring Matheran: A Misty Adventure Through Nature
Is there an entry fee for the Matheran?
Visiting Matheran is not just about scenic beauty; it’s about the entire experience, starting right at the entrance. Upon arriving, you’ll need to pay an entry fee of ₹50 per person. Important to note: only cash is accepted, so make sure to carry enough as mobile networks are sparse, making online transactions unreliable.
Once we paid the fee and entered the gate, excitement filled the air. Just moments after entering, we heard a commotion—someone had spotted a snake. We quickly joined the small crowd and caught a glimpse of a tiny green snake blending into the foliage. It was a reminder of the rich wildlife in Matheran, and a good reason why wearing sturdy shoes is essential for walking through the forested paths.
Do we need to walk a lot in Matheran?
After that little adventure, we headed towards the toy train station, which was still a short walk away from the gate. Unfortunately, by the time we arrived, the train was preparing to depart and the ticket counter had already closed. The next train was scheduled for an hour and a half later, so we had a decision to make—either wait, take a horse ride, or hop into one of the auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) parked nearby. The rickshaw ride was reasonably priced at ₹40 per person, but we decided to walk instead, embracing the misty weather and peaceful atmosphere.
Can I book Matheran toy train tickets online?
The walk was enchanting. A thick layer of mist enveloped us, making visibility beyond 10 feet nearly impossible. It felt as though we were trekking through clouds. Every few minutes, we stopped to capture the mesmerizing surroundings with our cameras. The mist-covered trees, the red earth trails, and the serene silence made for perfect photo opportunities.
About halfway through our walk, we came across a small tea stall that offered hot food and beverages. We ordered a plate of steaming hot Maggi noodles (₹60 per plate) and a cup of tea. The warmth of the food was comforting, especially in the cool, misty weather, and it rejuvenated us for the rest of our trek. While we ate, we had the delightful experience of seeing the toy train pass by, chugging along its track. The sight of the little train, combined with the mist and the sound of its whistle, made for a magical moment.
Refreshed and ready, we continued our journey and finally reached Matheran station. We were greeted by the charming toy train sitting at the platform. Naturally, we couldn’t resist stopping for some pictures next to it—capturing memories of a misty, magical day in Matheran.
Is Matheran possible in one day?
Matheran, while compact, is spread out across various scenic locations, making it difficult to explore all its spots in just one day. The hill station offers numerous viewpoints, hidden trails, and peaceful spots that deserve ample time to fully appreciate. Attempting to cover everything in a single day can be overwhelming, so it’s best to extend your stay.
Fortunately, Matheran has a wide range of hotels and lodges where visitors can spend the night, allowing them to continue exploring the next day at a relaxed pace. Staying overnight also lets you experience the serenity of Matheran in the early morning or late evening when the crowds thin out and the hill station reveals its quieter, more peaceful side.
Interestingly, amidst Matheran’s natural beauty, I also stumbled upon a few game parlors and shops that reminded me of the ones typically found in malls. It was surprising to see these modern conveniences juxtaposed with the traditional and rustic charm of the place. These small businesses offer some fun distractions, especially for families, but the true essence of Matheran remains in its untouched natural landscapes, peaceful ambiance, and the opportunity to unwind in a unique, vehicle-free environment.
Is Matheran worth going? How to travel to Matheran
Absolutely! If you’re seeking to truly experience nature in its purest form, Matheran is a must-visit destination. Its vehicle-free environment, lush greenery, misty hills, and tranquil ambiance offer a refreshing escape from the chaos of everyday life.
Whether you’re trekking through scenic trails, taking in breathtaking views from various viewpoints, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, Matheran provides an unparalleled connection to nature. It’s a perfect spot for anyone who wants to unwind and soak in the beauty of the Western Ghats, making the trip well worth it.
What should I wear for the Matheran trip?
If you’re planning to visit Matheran during the rainy season, like I did, it’s essential to be well-prepared for the wet and slippery conditions. Make sure to wear long pants or pajamas paired with a T-shirt, as shirts are not ideal in this weather.
A raincoat or umbrella is a must-have to protect yourself from the constant downpours. When it comes to footwear, trekking shoes are highly recommended over regular shoes. The terrain becomes quite slippery during the rains, and normal shoes simply don’t provide the grip you need to navigate the trails safely. Trekking shoes, on the other hand, offer better traction and stability, making your experience much more comfortable and secure.
Being equipped with the right clothing and footwear will ensure that you can enjoy the lush green surroundings and scenic views of Matheran, even amid the monsoon season, without any discomfort. How to travel to Matheran…