There are some places that stay in your heart forever. For me, Matheran is one of those places. This small, eco-friendly hill station in Maharashtra has welcomed me many times—and each visit gave me something new. From a school picnic in 7th standard to a peaceful two-day trip with my spouse, every memory of Matheran is special.
Let me take you on a walk through my personal journey to Matheran—how I travelled, what I saw, and why it continues to refresh me even today.
My Visits to Matheran Over the Years
I’ve been lucky to visit Matheran at different stages of life:
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🎒 School picnic (7th standard) – One-day fun with classmates
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🏫 College days – A short day trip with college friends
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🧑💼 With colleagues – Another one-day trip when I started my job
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💑 After marriage – A relaxing two-day stay with my spouse
Each visit was unique, but the one with my spouse gave me more time to explore deeply and relive old memories.
Getting There: Train to Neral and Scenic Cab Ride
All my trips to Matheran started from Mumbai. I took a train to Neral, which is the closest station to Matheran. From there, we booked a cab to Dasturi Point, the last motorable spot before the hill station.
That drive from Neral to Dasturi is simply magical, especially during monsoon. The road climbs through the ghats, and beautiful waterfalls appear unexpectedly around every curve. The cool breeze, wet roads, and greenery everywhere—it’s like entering another world.
Walking to Matheran: Jungle Feels
During one of my solo visits, I decided to walk from Dasturi Point to Matheran instead of taking a horse or hand-pulled cart. I walked parallel to the toy train track, which gave me some of the most amazing views.
I felt like I was walking inside a jungle. The trees were tall and thick, and the greenery was endless. The red soil paths, chirping birds, and sudden silence made the walk peaceful and refreshing. If you enjoy nature walks, I highly recommend this path.
Stay Opposite Matheran Station – A Room with a View
When I visited with my spouse, we stayed in a hotel located exactly opposite Matheran railway station. From our window, we could see the station clearly. Watching the toy train arrive, hearing the whistles, and seeing tourists come and go—it felt like we were living inside a movie scene.
The hotel staff and local people were very kind and helpful. They guided us to nearby points and helped us with food and travel suggestions. In Matheran, people are simple and welcoming.
Horse Ride Experience – Fun but a Little Costly
Since vehicles are not allowed in Matheran, walking and horse rides are the main options. During our couple’s trip, we took a horse ride to explore the points.
The horsemen were friendly and guided us well. They also helped us take photos at the points. Yes, it was a bit costly, but worth it for the experience. My spouse enjoyed it a lot since it was her first time on a horse.
Viewpoints in Matheran – Nature’s Beauty All Around
Matheran is known for its many “points” that offer breathtaking views of the Sahyadri hills. Here are some we explored:
🌄 Panorama Point
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Perfect for sunrise
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Offers a wide 360-degree view
🌊 Echo Point
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Say your name and hear it bounce back!
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Fun for kids and adults alike
🪷 Charlotte Lake
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Peaceful and quiet
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Surrounded by nature and monkeys
🌅 Sunset Point
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Best in the evening
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The orange and pink sky makes for great photos
⛰️ Louisa Point
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Amazing view of valleys and nearby forts
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One of my personal favourites
Toy Train Ride – Still on My Bucket List
Even after visiting Matheran several times, I’ve never had the chance to ride the toy train. The ride is known for its slow speed, beautiful curves, and stunning valley views.
I’ve heard from my friends that the ride is a joyful and unique experience. But to get a ticket, you need to reach early and book from the counter. Next time, I’ll make sure to catch this ride!
Local Market – Simple, Colourful, and Fun
The market near the station is full of life. You can find:
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Handcrafted bags, toys, and chappals
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Local snacks, chikki, and fudge
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Wooden items and cane furniture
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Souvenirs and photo spots
We picked up some fresh handcraft bags and chikki to bring home.
Food in Matheran – Homely and Tasty
Food in Matheran is mostly simple, homely, and delicious. We enjoyed:
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Misal Pav, Vada Pav, Poha, Tea etc
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Both Veg and Non Veg food
You’ll find many vegetarian restaurants, and a few serve non-veg too. The food made with local recipe.
Peaceful Moments and Refreshing Memories
Each time I visited Matheran, I came back feeling lighter, happier, and more peaceful. No honking, no pollution, no mobile distractions—just pure nature and time to think or bond.
Whether it was walking in the mist, feeding monkeys near the lake, or watching the sunset with my partner, every moment was magical.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
If you’re planning a trip to Matheran, here are some helpful tips:
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📍 How to reach: Train to Neral, then cab to Dasturi Point
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🥾 How to enter: Walk, ride a horse, or take hand-pulled rickshaw
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🐎 Horse rides: Negotiate prices, especially during peak season
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🧥 Carry: Light jacket, raincoat (if monsoon), and good shoes
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📵 No vehicles allowed; mobile network is weak—perfect time to disconnect
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🏨 Stay: Book early during weekends; many hotels available
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🎫 Toy train: Reach early at Aman Lodge or Neral station for tickets
Final Thoughts – Matheran Is a Place for All Ages
From a 7th standard picnic to a couple’s escape, Matheran has been part of my life in many ways. It gave me childhood fun, college bonding, work break memories, and romantic moments after marriage.
I believe everyone should visit Matheran at least once, and if possible, more than once—because each season and stage of life shows a new side of this beautiful hill station.
If you love nature, fresh air, peaceful walks, and small joys—Matheran will never disappoint you.
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