Matheran is a beautiful hill station located on the Western Ghats mountain range in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. It’s a popular weekend getaway destination, especially for people from Mumbai and Pune, due to its proximity (around 90 km from Mumbai and 120 km from Pune) and its car-free environment.

Matheran is located at an average elevation of 800 meters (2,625 ft) above sea level. The climate is cooler and drier than the surrounding areas, making it a popular escape from the summer heat. Temperatures typically range from 16°C (61°F) to 32°C (90°F). The monsoon season lasts from June to September, but it retreats before October, making the weather perfect for sightseeing.

Matheran has been declared an eco-sensitive region by the Union Environment Ministry (GoI) and is home to diverse flora and fauna. There are also several rare species like the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, White-Rumped Shama, Brown Wood Owl, South Indian Tree Shrew, and the Giant Squirrel. It is also home to a wide range of snakes, from harmless ones to deadly and venomous snakes.

The type of soil here is red. The top of Matheran has excellent walking paths as well as lakes, which add to the charms of this place.

Car-Free Zone » One of the unique things about Matheran is that it is a car-free zone. This means that no vehicles are allowed within the town limits. Visitors can either walk, take a rickshaw pulled by porters, or ride the Matheran Toy Train, a narrow-gauge mountain railway that takes you on a scenic journey up the mountain.

History » H. P. Mallet, who was the Collector of Thane, discovered this hill in 1880. He noticed the thick forest and enquired about the hill from local villagers. In the native dialect, they replied, “Mathe Ran Hai”, meaning ‘Up there (Mathe) is a jungle (Ran).’ Mallet made regular excursions to it and finally, a hill railway was constructed here in 1907.

Matheran is a paradise for hikers, particularly in the monsoons. It has many routes and one can always spend an enjoyable hiking day exploring these routes. There are many trekking routes such as climbing from Bhivpuri to Garbett Point via the Garbett plateau. From Chauk via village Warose go up the Shivaji Ladder. From village Ambewadi to One Tree Hill Point. From Vangani to Porcupine Point, via Panvel Lake, etc.

Many such combinations are possible. One can climb up from one route and descend from another. There are many enjoyable walks through the thick forest at the top. A separate route guide for Matheran is locally available.

Depart from Pune by 23:00 hrs.
Meet our representative at your pick-up point. We will then proceed by private vehicle to the starting point of our trek.

Day 0: Highlights
• Drive (approx.): 120 km, 3-4 hrs.

Upon arrival at Diksal village, Neral (Karjat, Raigad), start our trek to Matheran Hill Station via Garbett Plateau/Point. The initial part of the trail is relatively easy, following a well-defined path through the forest. As you gain altitude, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging. But the cool night air and the starry sky will keep you motivated.

Reach the Garbett Plateau and enjoy the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahyadri mountains. This is a truly magical experience!

Walk around 2-3 km from Garbett Point to the Dasturi Naka of Matheran Hill station. After spending some time exploring the Matheran Hill Station, Get refreshed & have breakfast at a restaurant. Depart from Neral and return to Pune; filled with memories of our night trek to Garbett Plateau.

Arrive back in Pune by 15:00 hrs. (approx.).

Day 1: Highlights
• Altitude: ⇑ 2,330 ft. / ⇓ 230 ft.
• Walk (approx.): 8 km, 5-6 hrs.
• Accommodation: N/A
• Meals: Breakfast