Matheran is a charming hill station in Maharashtra, about 90 kilometers from Mumbai. It’s a popular escape for those wanting a break from the city. If you’re wondering how to go Matheran from Mumbai, there are several convenient options available.
Known for its peaceful atmosphere and cool weather, Matheran offers stunning views and a chance to enjoy nature without the noise of cars, which are not allowed there.
Visitors can relax, go hiking, and see beautiful spots like Panorama Point and Echo Point. With its clean air and quiet surroundings, Matheran is an ideal place for a weekend trip or a short, refreshing vacation.
How to Get There
Traveling from Mumbai to Matheran is quite simple and there are a few different ways to get there. One popular option is to take a train. You can catch a train from Mumbai to Neral, which is the closest train station to Matheran.
From Neral, you can either take a toy train or a taxi to reach Matheran. The toy train ride is a fun and scenic way to travel up the hill. Another option is to travel by bus. There are buses that go from Mumbai to Neral, and from there, you can hire a taxi or take the toy train to Matheran.
If you prefer driving, you can take your own car. The drive from Mumbai to Matheran usually takes about 2-3 hours. However, cars are not allowed inside Matheran, so you will need to park at Dasturi Car Point, which is just outside Matheran.
From Dasturi, you can walk or hire a horse or hand-pulled rickshaw to get into Matheran. Each of these travel options offers a unique experience, so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and enjoy your trip to Matheran.
Taking the Train
To take the train from Mumbai to Matheran, first go to Mumbai's CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus) or Dadar station and catch a train going to Neral.
The train ride from Mumbai to Neral takes about 2 hours. If you're wondering how to reach Matheran from Mumbai, this is one of the most popular ways.
Once you arrive at Neral, you can either take the toy train to Matheran or a shared taxi. The toy train is a fun, scenic ride that takes about 2 hours, but you need to book tickets in advance, especially during busy times.
If you choose the shared taxi, it’s quicker, taking only about 30 minutes to reach Dasturi Naka, the last point where vehicles are allowed. From Dasturi Naka, you can either walk or take a hand-pulled rickshaw or horse to reach Matheran town, which is about 2.5 kilometers away.
Bus Options
If you want to travel from Mumbai to Matheran by bus, there are several options available. Direct buses to Matheran can be found at major bus stations in Mumbai, such as Dadar and Mumbai Central.
These buses are a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel. The ticket prices for these buses usually range between 200 to 300 rupees per person, making it an affordable choice for many travelers.
Before you go, it's a good idea to check the bus schedules online or at the bus station. Bus departure times can vary, so it's helpful to know when the next bus is leaving.
Some buses might have fixed schedules, while others could be more flexible, depending on the demand and the time of day.
When you arrive at the bus station, look for signs or ask staff members to help you find the right bus to Matheran. It's always a good idea to arrive a bit early to ensure you get a seat, especially during peak travel times or weekends when more people are likely to be traveling.
Taking the bus from Mumbai to Matheran is a straightforward and economical way to make the journey. Once you reach Matheran, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and peaceful environment that this hill station has to offer.
Driving Yourself
If you decide to drive your own car from Mumbai to Matheran, it’s a convenient and enjoyable option. For those wondering how to travel to Matheran from Mumbai, start by taking the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and exit at the Chowk junction, then follow the signs leading to Matheran.
The journey typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. When you arrive at Dasturi Naka, you’ll need to park your car because vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran to keep the area pollution-free.
There are parking lots available at Dasturi Naka where you can leave your car for a small fee. From Dasturi Naka, you can either walk to the main part of Matheran, which takes around 30-45 minutes, or you can hire a horse or a hand-pulled rickshaw for a more relaxed trip.
Driving yourself gives you the flexibility to stop along the way and enjoy the scenic route at your own pace.
How Much It Costs
When you're planning your trip from Mumbai to Matheran, it's smart to know how much money you'll need. Let's break it down. If you're taking the train from Mumbai to Matheran, tickets have set prices depending on where you sit.
Buses might cost different amounts depending on when you travel and what kind of bus you take. If you're driving, think about how much gas you'll need and if there are any tolls on the way. Don't forget about other expenses like parking and snacks.
By understanding all these costs, you can make sure you've got enough money for your journey from Mumbai to Matheran and back. It's important to plan your budget carefully so you can have a fun and worry-free trip!
Travel Tips
Let me share some helpful advice to make your journey to Matheran easier. Firstly, when thinking about how to get to Matheran from Mumbai, it's best to plan your trip during the cooler months, like between November and February, as it can get really hot in Matheran during summer.
Make sure to pack wisely - bring along essentials like sunscreen to protect your skin, hats to shield from the sun, comfortable shoes for walking around, and plenty of water to keep hydrated. It's also important to stay safe during your trip.
Avoid going off on your own in places you don't know well, and stick to paths that are well-lit, especially after dark.
By following these simple tips, you can make sure your journey to Matheran is not only enjoyable but also safe and hassle-free. Remember, a little planning and preparation can go a long way in making your trip memorable for all the right reasons.
Where to Stay
When you're looking for a place to stay in Matheran, you've got lots of choices! You can find places to stay that are cheap and cozy, like small guesthouses or homestays. These places give you a comfortable bed and a nice place to sleep without costing too much money.
But if you want to treat yourself and stay somewhere fancy, you can find luxurious resorts and hotels in Matheran too. These places have all sorts of cool things, like swimming pools and fancy restaurants.
Booking a room is pretty easy - you can do it online or just call the place you want to stay at. It's a good idea to book ahead of time, especially if you're going during a busy time of year when lots of people visit Matheran.
That way, you'll make sure you have a place to stay when you get there! And while planning your trip, don't forget to look up how to travel to Matheran from Mumbai to ensure you have a smooth journey.
Things to Do
In Matheran, there's a bunch of cool stuff to do! First off, you can go hiking on some awesome trails. You'll see pretty flowers and maybe even some animals along the way.
Plus, the views from up high are breathtaking, so make sure to bring your camera! Then, you can wander around the town and check out the neat shops and yummy snacks. And oh, don't forget about the viewpoints – they're perfect for watching the sunset or just taking in the sights.
So, whether you’re up for an adventure or just wanna chill, Matheran has got you covered! The journey from Mumbai to Matheran is totally worth it for all the fun and relaxation you’ll find there.
