Karjat

Karjat is a town and taluka in Raigad district, Maharashtra, India. It lies in the western part of the state at the foothills of the Western Ghats, on the banks of the Ulhas River. The town is located about 60 to 70 kilometers southeast of Mumbai and sits along major road and rail corridors that connect Mumbai with Pune and the Konkan coast.

Karjat is served by Karjat railway station, on the Mumbai–Pune corridor, and is connected by road to Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, and other parts of Raigad district. The Mumbai–Pune Expressway and regional highways provide easy access, contributing to its role as a weekend destination for residents of Mumbai and nearby cities. The area experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which enhances the region’s green landscapes.

Administratively, Karjat serves as the headquarters of Karjat taluka in Raigad district. The economy is a mix of agriculture, horticulture, and small-scale industries, with local markets serving surrounding rural communities. Tourism and recreation are important to the area, due to its scenic hills, forests, and proximity to the Western Ghats. Karjat also functions as a gateway for travelers heading to the nearby hill station of Matheran, connected via the Neral–Matheran toy train route and local road networks. The region is home to historic and religious sites, including ancient rock-cut monuments and temples that reflect its long-standing cultural heritage.