11 Must-Visit Places in Matheran

July 3, 2018

About Matheran

Matheran is a stunning hill station about 90 km from Mumbai and 120 km from Pune. Because of its location, it proves to be a popular getaway for people living in these cities. Matheran has many Parsi bungalows and British style architecture preserved in its arms. Natural beauty is immense here with 38 designated look-out points which give a magnanimous view of the place. Whether you want to soak in sunrises or sunsets, trek along the hills or get a breath of fresh air, this is one place that any wanderlust seeking soul would love.

Why Go There: Natural Beauty | Adventure | Relaxation
Ideal For: Friends | Family
Trivia: Matheran means “forest on the forehead” and is Asia’s only automobile free hill station
Things to Bring Back: Leather goods, Kohlapuri Chappals, Cane items, Wild Flowers, Chikki
Best Time to Visit: October – May

To reach Matheran via bus, you can use the RedBus online booking app and get amazing RedBus offers. Use the RedBus offer codes to get cashback, discounts and more on the purchase of bus tickets to Matheran.

Places to Visit in Matheran

11. Dhodhani Waterfalls

Dhodhani waterfalls is a popular tourist spot in Matheran. The waterfall is located in a scenic, tranquil area which will make you genuinely appreciate the beauty of nature. You can also engage in different water sports at these waterfalls. Water rappelling is the most popular one and is a must-try for all adventure-lovers.

Distance: 3 km from City Centre

Time required: 2-3 hours

10. Ambarnath Temple

The Ambarnath temple showcases Vesara style architecture and the style of construction also resembles Dilwara temples of Mount Abu in Rajasthan. It is believed to be constructed around 1060 AD by King Mahamandaleshwar as a tribute to his ancestors. This Shiva temple built in black basalt stone has various images of Lord Shiva in different forms carved on its walls. Mahashivratri is celebrated here with great pomp and joy.

Distance: 37 km from Matheran
Time required: 1.5 hours

9. Charlotte Lake

Also known as Sharlott lake, this lake is the source of drinking water for Matheran. It is 50 ft deep and was built in 1956 AD. The pristine beauty of this lake can be best witnessed during monsoons. An age-old Shiva temple – Pisharnath Mahadev Mandir is not to be missed when visiting this place. Echo Point and Louisa Point are located close to Sharlott lake.

Distance: 2 km from Matheran Railway Station
Time required: Less than an hour

8. Shivaji’s Ladder

Shivaji’s Ladder falls on the way to One Hill Tree Point. This pathway was often used by Emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji for pleasure trips and hunting in the Matheran hills. It was rediscovered later by a district collector Hugh Poyntz Malet in 1850 AD. The pathway leads into an adventurous and steep trek in the woods which makes it one of the most popular trekking trails in Matheran.

Distance: 3.5 km from Matheran Railway Station
Time required: 1 – 2 hours

7. Honeymoon Hill

Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul at Honeymoon Hill in Matheran. It offers a tranquil view of the hills along with the Prabal Fort. The changing hues at dusk, breeze and soothing silence makes it a perfect place to spend some time with the one you love.

Distance: 1 km from the city
Time required: 1 – 2 hours

6. Olympia

Olympia is a horse race course in Matheran with locals enjoying the sport mostly around the month of May. If luck favours, you can try taking a horse ride in the muddy slopes of Matheran or take a riding lesson conducted by horsemen.

Distance: 3 km from Matheran Railway Station
Time required: 1 – 2 hours

5. Louisa Point

One of the many scenic points in Matheran is the Louisa Point. People love its panoramic views of ancient forts and a carpet of greenery. Rains make the views all the more awesome. Hikers and photographers spend time here much to their heart’s desire. Whether Louisa, or any other look-out points, all of them will fill your soul with eternal bliss.

Distance: 2 km from city center
Time required: 1 – 2 hours

Other look-out points to explore:

Panorama Point
Porcupine Point
Echo Point
Alexander Point
Hart Point
Rambagh Point
Monkey Point
One Tree Point
Little Chowk Point

4. Karnala Fort

Snaking roads and misty valleys are everything a person enveloped in the urban concrete dreams of. Explore all the beauty nature has to offer along with ancient remains from the Karnala Fort which is 10 kms away from Panvel city.

Distance: 53 km from Matheran Railway Station
Time required: 2 hours

Other forts to explore:

Prabal Fort
Irshalgad Fort

3. Neral – Matheran Toy Train

Built in between 1901 and 1907, the Neral – Matheran Railway is narrow-gauge heritage railway line that must be explored when there. Sharp ascends and deep cuttings make the views and journey incomparable. Charming views of Mount Barry through One-Kiss tunnel, moving towards Panorama point and finally bending back to Simpson’s tank then ending in Matheran takes a total time of about 2.5 hours.

Distance: 0 km from Matheran Railway Station
Time required: 2.5 hours

2. Morbe Dam

Enjoy a blissful picnic at Morbe dam built across the Dharavi river spreading over a surface of 9,780 sq. km. Magical views of the valley, green hills and a glorious sunset can be relished here.

Distance: 30 km from Matheran
Time required: 2 hours

1. Chanderi Caves

Take a mesmerising trek to Chanderi caves and relax against the stunning backdrop of the Sahyadri Range. Winding trails covered in mist and breathtaking views of the peaks make this an experience of a lifetime.

Distance: Between Badlapur and Vangani Railway Stations
Time required: One day