Located about 171 kms from Mumbai, Matheran’s claim to fame is the fact that it is one of the cleanest hill stations around. It is a small and picturesque retreat situated in the Sahayadris. It was founded by Sir Hugh Mallet, Collector of Thane in the late 19th century. What makes this hill station truly different is that no vehicles are allowed here. Travellers are required to park their vehicles at the car park on the outskirts and then travel on foot or a pony. This ensures a quiet and peaceful holiday, away from the chaos of cars and buses. One of the best times to travel here is the period from end May till the arrival of the monsoon. You can watch mist-clad hills accompanied by occasional showers and thunderstorms and the transition of the hills to a cool shade of green.

• The Mall Road: The main focus of Matheran’s activities is the Mall Road that stretches from one end to the other. It has hotels, restaurants and bazaars lining on both sides. The main market in this area offers several items for purchase including leather and cane articles and food stuff. You can also hire ponies for your sightseeing from this point.

• Vantage Points: Matheran’s hills offer some of the most stunning views of the landscape. The Panorama Point is located 6 kms from the market and is believed to be the longest point in Matheran and is a popular spot for picnics. It is from here that the mountain ranges of Khandala Bhimashankar are visible. The Heart Point offers a view of Mumbai at night. The Echo Point derives its name from the acoustic echo it provides. Louisa Point is another popular point in Matheran with its beautiful waterfalls. Monkey Point owes its name to the profusion of monkeys that are constantly up to their antics. Sunset Point offers views of Prabalgad, one of the forts of Chattrapati Shivaji’s Fort.
• Lakes: Located about 2 kms from the Post Office, Charlotte Lake offers some of the most amazing scenery. It is flanked by the Pisarnath Temple on the left, and the Echo Point and Louisa Point on the right. This lake is also the source of the city’s drinking water.

For a location that’s much visited, food places are available in plenty. What we recommend is try out some of the local cuisines of Maharashtra. Most of the hotels have their own restaurants and coffee shops that serve homely food. Don’t forget to try the all-time favourite chikki, which is a sweet made of groundnut, jaggery and cashewnuts.

The Mall Road is the most popular of shopping areas and offers several items for purchase. Matheran is most known for its leather and cane articles, straw hats and sweets.