Matheran Hill Station In Maharashtra
Matheran Hill Station is a popular tourist destination located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. It is a small hill station located at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level, and is situated on the Western Ghats range. The town is known for its scenic beauty, tranquil atmosphere and unpolluted air. Matheran is also known for being Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, where all vehicles are banned.
History:
The history of Matheran dates back to the 19th century when it was discovered by British colonial officers. In 1850, Hugh Poyntz Malet, the collector of Thane, discovered the place while he was on a hunting trip. He was so impressed with the beauty of the place that he developed it as a summer resort for the British officers. Later, Lord Elphinstone, the Governor of Bombay, developed it as a hill station for the public.
Geography and Climate:
Matheran is located on the Western Ghats range and is spread over an area of 8 square kilometers. It is situated at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level. The town is surrounded by dense forests and is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The climate in Matheran is pleasant throughout the year, with the temperature ranging between 16 to 32 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, is the best time to visit the town as it receives heavy rainfall and the surroundings become lush green.
Tourist Attractions:
Matheran is a popular tourist destination and is known for its natural beauty and scenic landscapes. The town has several tourist attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Some of the major tourist attractions in Matheran are:
Panorama Point:
Also known as Sunrise Point, Panorama Point offers a breathtaking view of the sunrise over the surrounding hills and valleys. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in Matheran.
Charlotte Lake:
Charlotte Lake is a serene lake located in the heart of Matheran. It is a popular spot for picnics and boating.
Louisa Point:
Louisa Point is located on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is also home to several historical ruins.
One Tree Hill Point:
One Tree Hill Point is a scenic point located on a hilltop that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is named after the lone tree that stands on top of the hill.
Echo Point:
Echo Point is a popular spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is located in a dense forest and is known for its echo effect.
Shivaji’s Ladder:
Shivaji’s Ladder is a steep climb that leads to the fort of Prabalgad. It is named after the Maratha king Shivaji, who is said to have used the ladder to reach the fort.
Porcupine Point:
Porcupine Point is located on a cliff and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is named after the porcupine-shaped rock that is found on the cliff.
Charlotte Lake Dam:
Charlotte Lake Dam is a beautiful dam located on Charlotte Lake. It is a popular spot for picnics and photography.
Apart from these, Matheran also has several other attractions like the Honeymoon Point, Alexander Point, and the Monkey Point.
Matheran Hill Station In Maharashtra
Activities:
Matheran is not just about sightseeing, but it also offers several adventure activities for tourists. Some of the popular adventure activities in Matheran are:
Trekking:
Matheran is a popular trekking destination and is known for its scenic trekking routes. There are several trekking trails that lead to the surrounding hills and valleys. Some of the popular trekking trails in Matheran are Garbett Point trek, Peb fort trek, Kalavantin Durg trek, and Chanderi Fort trek.
Horse Riding:
Horse riding is one of the popular activities in Matheran. The town is known for its horses, which are well-trained and well-maintained. Horse rides are available from the town to various tourist spots in Matheran.
Camping:
Camping is a popular activity in Matheran, especially during the monsoon season. There are several campsites located in the surrounding hills and valleys that offer a unique camping experience.
Nature Walks:
Matheran is surrounded by dense forests, and nature walks are a popular activity here. The town has several walking trails that lead to the surrounding hills and valleys. These walks offer a chance to explore the flora and fauna of the region.
Paragliding:
Paragliding is a popular adventure activity in Matheran. Several operators offer paragliding services from the hilltops, which offer a bird’s eye view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Rock Climbing:
Rock climbing is another popular adventure activity in Matheran. The town has several rock faces that are suitable for rock climbing.
Zip-lining:
Zip-lining is a thrilling adventure activity that is available in Matheran. Several operators offer zip-lining services from the hilltops.
Accommodation:
Matheran offers a range of accommodation options for tourists, ranging from budget to luxury. The town has several hotels, resorts, and guesthouses that cater to the needs of tourists. Some of the popular hotels in Matheran are:
The Verandah in the Forest:
The Verandah in the Forest is a heritage hotel located in the heart of Matheran. The hotel is set amidst lush green surroundings and offers a unique colonial-style experience.
Adamo The Resort:
Adamo The Resort is a luxury resort located on the outskirts of Matheran. The resort offers modern amenities and facilities and is ideal for those looking for a luxurious stay.
Westend Hotel:
Westend Hotel is a budget hotel located in the heart of Matheran. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations and basic amenities and is ideal for those looking for a budget stay.
Horseland Hotel and Mountain Spa:
Horseland Hotel and Mountain Spa is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Matheran. The hotel offers modern amenities and facilities and is known for its spa services.
Apart from these, Matheran also has several guesthouses and homestays that offer a unique local experience.
Matheran Hill Station In Maharashtra
Food:
Matheran offers a range of dining options for tourists. The town has several restaurants and eateries that serve a variety of cuisines, ranging from local Maharashtrian cuisine to international cuisine. Some of the popular restaurants in Matheran are:
Shabbir Bhai’s Biryani:
Shabbir Bhai’s Biryani is a popular eatery located in the heart of Matheran. The eatery is known for its delicious biryani and kebabs.
Garden View Restaurant:
Garden View Restaurant is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Matheran. The restaurant offers a range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental.
Patel’s Snack Bar:
Patel’s Snack Bar is a popular eatery located in the heart of Matheran. The eatery is known for its delicious vada pav and other snacks.
Usha Ascot Restaurant:
Usha Ascot Restaurant is a luxury restaurant located in the heart of Matheran. The restaurant offers a range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental.
Apart from these, Matheran also has several street food stalls that offer local delicacies like vada pav, bhajia, and chikki. The town is also known for its fresh strawberries, which are available during the strawberry season.
Shopping:
Matheran offers a range of shopping options for tourists. The town has several shops and markets that sell a variety of items, ranging from local handicrafts to souvenirs. Some of the popular shopping destinations in Matheran are:
Matheran Bazaar:
Matheran Bazaar is a popular market located in the heart of Matheran. The market offers a range of items, including local handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
Panorama Point Market:
Panorama Point Market is a popular market located near Panorama Point. The market offers a range of items, including local handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
Charlotte Lake Market:
Charlotte Lake Market is a popular market located near Charlotte Lake. The market offers a range of items, including local handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
Shivaji Chowk Market:
Shivaji Chowk Market is a popular market located near Shivaji Chowk. The market offers a range of items, including local handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
Transportation:
Matheran is a vehicle-free zone, and visitors are not allowed to bring their vehicles inside the town. The town can be accessed by train or road. The nearest railway station to Matheran is Neral Railway Station, which is located around 21 km from Matheran. From Neral Railway Station, visitors can take a toy train or a taxi to reach Matheran. The toy train is a popular mode of transportation to reach Matheran, as it offers a scenic ride through the mountains.
Matheran can also be accessed by road from Mumbai and Pune. Visitors can take a taxi or a bus from Mumbai or Pune to reach Matheran. The nearest airport to Matheran is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, which is located around 44 km from Matheran.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Matheran is between October and May, when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 17°C to 32°C. The monsoon season, which starts from June and lasts till September, is also a good time to visit Matheran, as the town comes alive with lush greenery and waterfalls. However, visitors are advised to be careful during the monsoon season, as the town can become slippery and muddy.
Safety Tips:
Visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear, as the town has several walking trails and uneven surfaces.
Visitors are advised to carry sufficient cash, as there are no ATMs in Matheran.
Visitors are advised to carry sufficient drinking water, as the town can get hot and humid during the summer season.
Visitors are advised to be careful during the monsoon season, as the town can become slippery and muddy.
Visitors are advised to be respectful of the local culture and traditions.
Conclusion:
Matheran is a picturesque hill station that offers a unique experience to visitors. The town is known for its natural beauty, colonial architecture, and adventure activities. From trekking and horse riding to camping and paragliding, there are several activities that visitors can enjoy in Matheran. The town also offers a range of accommodation options and dining options, making it a popular tourist destination
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