Matheran: Hills, History and How to Get There

Matheran lies on a gently undulating hill, covered with shady trees, at an elevation of 800 m. The town combines a forested landscape with a distinctive journey there and traces of its history during the British period. Its landscape, access and history offer different points of reference for considering Matheran as a destination for a hotel stay.

Getting to Matheran and its trails

Visitors must leave their vehicles at Dasturi Naka, as motor vehicles are prohibited in Matheran. From there, the journey continues on horseback, in a hand-pulled rickshaw or on foot. Check the current local rules before your trip. For planning purposes, this means that the drive in your own vehicle ends at Dasturi Naka; you should treat the remaining stretch as a separate part of your journey. Your choice among the listed onward travel options will shape the practical planning of your visit.

An alternative route up to Matheran is a challenging, 11 km trail through dense, shady forests. Both its length and challenging nature should factor into your decision if you are considering this option. Find out about the trail's current condition in advance and take it into account when planning your trip.

Forested hill and One Tree Hill Point

The gently undulating terrain and shady trees define the area's landscape. One Tree Hill Point is one of Matheran's attractions and is named after the single tree that stands on the hill. The name thus refers to a specific feature of the hilly landscape, while the trees also shape the overall image of the town.

History and architecture

The history can also be viewed as a sequence of events. British officer Hugh Poyntz Malet discovered Matheran in 1850. Later, the British developed Matheran into a summer retreat to escape the intense heat of the plains. The Matheran Hill Railway was built during the British period. Colonial-era bungalows and buildings in the British architectural style still stand in the town. They add a built heritage that remains visible today to the historical perspective.

There is also a museum dedicated to the life of Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji. If you are planning to visit the museum, check in advance on current access arrangements. Alongside the British architectural and railway traces, the museum offers a different historical focus.

Considering Matheran as a travel destination

When looking for hotels in Matheran, you can weigh your priorities: would you mainly like to explore the forested hills, consider the challenging forest trail as an option for getting there, or focus on the town's history? Also consider how you would like to continue your journey after leaving your vehicle.

Discover more destinations: Kihim, Pen, Khalapur, Bekare, Belkhar, Kurvande, Alibaugh, Harihareshwar

For the overarching travel overview: Raigad.