Matheran

Matheran is a hill station located in the Western Ghats in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. It sits on a high plateau at an altitude of about 800 meters above sea level and is one of the smallest, automobile-free hill stations in the region. The town lies roughly 100 kilometers southeast of Mumbai and is renowned for its forested slopes, panoramic viewpoints, and a cool, misty climate.

Access is via the Neral–Matheran toy train or by road to the Dasturi Naka gate; beyond that point motor vehicles are not permitted. Visitors typically travel on foot, by horseback, or by other non-motorized means to explore the town and its outlooks. The toy train, operated by Indian Railways as a narrow-gauge line, has been transporting travelers since 1907 and remains a popular link to the hill station.

Historically developed as a hill retreat during the British era in the 19th century, Matheran is part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot and emphasizes ecological preservation. It functions as a popular weekend destination for residents of Mumbai and Pune, with a range of trekking routes and viewpoints.

The climate is mild year-round, with cooler temperatures in winter and pronounced monsoon rainfall from June to September. The most favorable visiting period is the cooler, dry months from October through February. Notable viewpoints include Echo Point and Panorama Point, and local attractions include several lakes and trails that connect the surrounding forested terrain.