Perfect 2-Day Itinerary for Matheran: What to See, Do & Explore

By Pramila Sharma • Maharashtra • May 03, 2025

• Matheran •

"The more civilized man becomes,

the more he needs and craves

a great background of forest wildness,

to which he may return like a contrite prodigal

from the husks of an artificial life."

- Ellen Burns Sherman

The above lines describe Matheran in the perfect way ⎯ an untamed place away from city lights and constant noise. In today's world of deadlines and digital overload, when life's start to feel stuck as if just ticking boxes in a human-made routine. Matheran stands apart, untouched by the hustle. It’s where nature isn’t trimmed or polished, but raw, powerful, and stunning in its freedom.

For me, it is a place for solace and tranquility, a detachment from fast and bustling life; reconnecting with nature and oneself. After a very long time, my gang and I planned a weekend trip to Matheran. Though I have visited Matheran numerous times with family and friends, but every visit feels like a rejuvenation for soul⎯ a break from the fast and bustling Mumbai life.

Matheran in a nutshell⎯

Matheran translates to “forest on top”, nestled at 2400 ft. above sea level like a crown at the top of Sahyadri hill range. Matheran is a serene hill station of about 7.2 square kilometer, in the Raigad district (Western Ghats) of Maharashtra.

Matheran Timeline⎯

Matheran was discovered in 1850 by Hugh Poyntz Malet, the district collector of Thane. Soon it became the summer retreat for their officials.

In 1907, the famous toy train began transporting visitors to the hill station.

Declared a heritage site in 1988, efforts have since been made to preserve its natural beauty and ecosystem.

Today, due to pleasant weather, stunning scenery, and panoramic viewpoints it's a well known weekend gateway to nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking for a tranquil escape.

What are the Things to do in Matheran?

Activities: Scenic Walks, Horse Riding, Trekking, Bonfires

Trekking: Popular trails like Garbett Point offer stunning views and diverse terrain.

Stargazing: Clear skies make it perfect for observing stars.

Viewpoints: Charlotte Lake, Alexander Point, for panoramic Point, Echo Point, scenic trails

Toy Train Ride: Enjoy a scenic journey on the UNESCO World Heritage Matheran Toy Train.

Night Walks: Experience the tranquility of Matheran at night on guided or independent walks.

Practical Tips and Notes for Matheran Tour

Online Payment: Carry substantial cash as UPI and card payments are not accessible due to lack of mobile network. There are only two ATMs in the entire hill station, which are usually dry.

Mobile Network: Network connectivity is the biggest issue in Matheran. Only Jio connectivity is available in certain areas.

Admission Cost: Admission fee ₹50/- pp for adult and ₹25 for kids is collected by the Matheran Municipal Council at the entry gate (Dasturi Naka/Aman Lodge), just a short distance from the parking lot.

Getting Around: Matheran is a very small hill station and all the viewpoints can be visited on foot. Carry comfortable shoes. You can also hire a horse for more relaxed journey but the service is available until a certain point and thereafter you need to go on foot.

➡ Always trek with a proper guide or in a group.

How much time to spend: Ideally one or two days are enough to explore Matheran. You can also spend more time enjoying the laid back vibes of this hill station.

Food: While you will not find big fast-food chains here, the local eateries serve homely food. Many resort/hotels have in-house restaurants. Maharashtrian, Gujarati, chinese and even Mughlai dishes are available. Matheran is

The Journey From Mumbai to Matheran

Our journey started from Dadar station in Mumbai, we boarded an early morning 7 am Deccan Express train from Dadar station to Nerul station. We missed the toy train, so we opted for a shared taxi from the taxi stand, a few minutes away just outside Nerul station. The taxi drops at Dasturi Naka (entry point of Matheran).

Mumbai to Matheran:

By Road: Drive to Dasturi Naka and continue on foot or hire a horse.

By Trains: Take a train till Nerul station. Local and express trains run from Dadar station/Mumbai CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) for Nerul Station. It takes around 1-2 hours to reach Nerul.

From Nerul, either take the toy train to Matheran station or a shared taxi to Dasturi Naka (the entry point to Matheran). Matheran is a vehicle-free zone, so vehicles are allowed beyond Dasturi Naka. You can hire a horse or trek to reach the main town area.

Need help getting to Matheran? Check out this step-by-step Travel Guide to Reach Matheran

Aman Lodge Station, Matheran

Day - 1 of Matheran Tour

Arrival and Exploration in Matheran

After paying the entry fee of Rs.50 per person, we took the trail leading to the main town and also our accommodation. The trek route is well marked and easily doable. You also get amazing Instagram-worthy valley views on the route. Local food stalls serving fresh fruit, maggi, juices etc. are available on the trail.

Clicked while trekking towards Matheran from Dasturi Naka

By afternoon, we reached our resort and checked-in. After settling-in , it was time for some food hunt. We stopped at a nice and cozy restaurant, devoured a delicious meal (Maharashtrian thali) and returned to our resort.

After some rest and rejuvenation, I started my journey to explore the famous and must visit viewpoints in Matheran. With its laid-back pace, calming vibes and scenic viewpoints⎯ Matheran is all about unwinding in nature's lap.

Matheran has many viewpoints but here is the list of places I visited on day one of my tour一

Valley View at Khandala Point

Khandala Point offers stunning views of deep valleys and Khandala Ghats in Sahyadri's. It is one of the popular viewpoints, easily accessible with stunning natural retreat.

Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or early-evening for sunset

Travel Tips: Ideal for a quick stop since it's located near the market. Be careful with your snack bags as monkeys are often visited here.

Read On: Khandala Point - my experience and detailed guide on Khandala Point.

Stunning View from Khandala Point

Panorama Point-

As the name suggests, this place offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Sahyadri range of hills and surrounding valleys. It offers beautiful views of Prabalgad fort and distant views of Heart Point, Porcupine Point and Monkey Point.

Best Time to Visit: Just before sunrise or sunset.

Travel Tips: Start your trek early and carry a flashlight, if going before dawn. wear comfortable shoes.

Echo Point

Echo point adds a playful twist to your Matheran trip. It is known for a unique echo effect⎯shout and hear your voice bounce back. A fun stop for all visitors.

Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the day.

Travel Tips: Try to visit on a clear day and avoid weekends for less crowd and a more peaceful experience.

Captured Abandoned Building on the way to viewpoints

Louisa Point

One of the most popular viewpoints, Louisa Point gives you postcard-perfect views of the mountains, deep valleys, and old forts like Prabal and Vishalgad.

Best Time to Visit: Evening just before sunset.

Travel Tips: It is close to Charlotte Lake, so you can visit both on the same stretch.

Honeymoon Point, King Edward Point and King George Point, all these points come in same line offering the panoramic views of the valley.

Lords Point

Lords Point is at the walking distance to Charlotte Lake, the entire walkway/path. It is one of the famous viewpoints, offering the breathtaking views of the valley and on the clear day you can rent a telescope and get the beautiful views of the historic Prabal and Irshalgad Fort, Adavashi (Tribal) village, Tigers cave and even Louisa Point.

Best Time to Visit: Evening just before sunset.

Travel Tips: Reach early, grab a good spot and stay till the sun dips. Its worth it!

I saved Charlotte Lake last on my list, a quiet retreat to simply pause, relax and let the world slip away. As the sun melts into the sky with warm hues with soft shimmers reflecting on the water surface . In moments like these, everything feels still⎯ mind, heart and the world around me. a rare kind of peace, a blissful silence

Blissful moments at Charlotte Lake, watching the sun sets below the horizon

A peaceful place to sit and witness the orange orb melt into the distance horizon and the nearby ancient Pisarnath Temple, adds a spiritual touch to the atmosphere. This pristine lake is surrounded by dense forest and home for numerous species of birds, and it is also the primary source of water for Matheran. Visit in monsoon season to experience the full glory of the lake.

Best Time to Visit: Sunset or sunrise

Travel Tips: Visit the nearby ancient Pisarnath Temple and then walking along the lake gives a different vibe, especially in the evening.

➡ Swimming is prohibited in the lake.

➡ If time permits you can also visit celia Point, which across the lake, this is a must -visit spot during monsoon to witness reverse waterfall.

Read On: Tap here for the full travel guide on a peaceful evening at Charlotte Lake surrounded by dense forest.

Matheran is a small hill station. The day came to an end early here, so I headed back to my resort and enjoyed some peaceful time admiring the night sky一a perfect way to wrap up my adventurous and a bit tiresome day!

Being a pollution-free Zone, the night sky in Matheran was unbelievably clear, filled with countless stars-something we rarely experience in cities.

Accommodation Details一

Our stay was at Adamo Resort, we booked a villa facing pool for Rs.12500/- per night. We were a group of five friends so it cost us around Rs.2500/- each including breakfast and dinner.

Day - 2 of Matheran Tour

Adventure and Departure

One of my favorite things and always tops my to-do list is to watch the hues of orange orb slowly rising over the hills⎯ it's like watching live painting. So I set out while the town was still asleep, with a camera in my hand to catch the first ray of the sun over the misty valley at Alexandra Point.

The path towards Alexander Point was rugged and quiet; the chilly morning air, chirping of birds, winding forest trail, and the sound of my footsteps along occasional rustling of leaves, made quite a dramatic scene. But the view was worth every effort!

Witnessing the first light at Alexander Point, Matheran

The Magical Sunrise at Alexander Point -

I reached Alexander Point just in time, stood there, completely mesmerized, watching as the sky started to change colors⎯ from deep purple to soft pink, then to shades of golden orange and red. It was serene morning with sun rising over the hills surrounded by forest in a maze of colors, the entire landscape transformed before my eyes.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning.

Travel Tips: Great spot for sunrise. Carry a light sweater, it gets very breezy and chilly here. But the view is worth it!

Click on: To learn more about the Scenic Sunrise at Alexander Point, offering breathtaking panoramic view of deep valleys, winding rivers and Sahyadri range.

After witnessing a unimaginably clear blue skies and beautiful sunrise and spending some blissful time, we took a little detour to Rambaug Point.

A Peaceful Escape at Rambaug Point

Located a bit off the usual track, Rambaug Point is a serene spot, especially in the morning. It offers beautiful views of Garbett Point, nearby hills. It is a great spot with less or no crowd and perfect for anyone looking for some quiet moment with nature.

Best time to visit: Early morning for great photos

Travel Tips: Carry on water and snacks- it's an offbeat trek and very rewarding.

Panoramic Views of deep valley

We explored all the viewpoints on foot. The route is well marked and can easily be done by anyone with basis fitness. The excursions on foot can be bit tiresome but also fun, walking through the dense forest of trees and all kinds of bushes and plants separated by the intrusive path.

Later I went to the main market to shop for souvenirs for family and friends. Matheran is famous for its honey, jams, and chikki (a peanut brittle candy). The market also offers a variety of options⎯ leather goods, wooden toys, handcrafted jewelry, handloom products.

After some wholesome lunch, it was time for the return journey. We opted for the Toy train to Nerul (cost- Rs.95 for second class) and thereafter train back to Dadar, Mumbai

➡ Stand in line early for toy train tickets as only limited seats are available.

➡ The ticket counter opens 45 mins before the departure time.

My Expenses During Matheran Tour

Break-up of the cost incurred in the Matheran Tour

Type	Amount
Travel Cost	₹ 495.00
Matheran Entry Fee	₹ 50.00
Food Expenses	₹ 1,500.00
Lodging	₹ 2,500.00
Buffer Amount	₹ 1,500.00
Grand Total	₹ 6,045.00

Travel Cost Break-up
Train : Dadar - Nerul - Dadar	₹ 300.00
Nerul Station to Matheran Taxi	₹ 100.00
Toy Train: Matheran - Nerul Station	₹ 95.00

NOTE: The costs mentioned above are approximate and may vary depending on the season, weekends, and other factors. The total amount is subject to change accordingly.

What is the Best Time to Visit Matheran?

Winter (October - February) : During the day weather is pleasant, suitable for trekking, outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (March - May) : pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing, relaxation and rejuvenation. summers are peak season, prices are on the higher side

Monsoon (June - September) : Matheran comes alive with lush greenery and gushing waterfalls. However, trekking and outdoor activities can be challenging due to the slippery paths.

What are the Stay Options in Matheran?

Budget Friendly – Cozy homestays, hotels & guesthouses

Bluestar Residency - Website

Roghay Cottage - Website

Janani Niwas - Website

Mid-Range Hotels – Comfortable stays with scenic views.

Hotel Girivihar - Website

Westend Hotel Matheran - Website

Ashok Hotel - Website

Matheran Green Field - Website

Luxury Resorts – Enjoy nature with top-class amenities.

Parsi Manor, Saffron Stay - Website

The Byke Heritage - Website

Radha Cottage Heritage Resort - Website

Adamo The Resort - Website

Dune Barr House - Website

Alexander Heritage and Rainforest Resort - Website

Camping – Stay under the stars for a unique experience.

➡ Rooms are also available on hourly basis (Morning - Evening) at the cost ranging between Rs.600 - Rs.800

NOTE: The costs mentioned above are approximate and may vary depending on the season, weekends, and other factors. The total amount is subject to change accordingly.

What to know before visiting?

Being eco-friendly, Plastic usage is strictly prohibited in Matheran.

Carry Comfortable walking shoes as a lot of walking and trekking is involved to reach viewpoints.

Limited ATM facilities, carry enough cash.

UPI and card payments are not accessible due to lack of mobile network

Always trek with a proper guide or in a group.

Weekends are very crowded, avoid visiting if possible.

Take care of food bags from monkeys.

Toy train works only in summers and winters

Don't forget to capture the beauty of Matheran by your camera/phone

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Matheran a vehicle-free hill station?

Yes! Matheran is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station. Visitors must either walk, take a horse ride, or use hand-pulled rickshaws to explore.

How many days it takes for a Mathern Trip?

Usually 2-3 days are sufficient but you can always stretch it longer to enjoy the natural environment and laid back vibes of Matheran

What are the must-visit places in Matheran?

Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, Rambagh Point, Panorama Point, Louisa Point, Alexander point, one tree hill point etc.

Can Matheran be visited in a one-day tour?

Yes, Matheran can be explored in one day

What are the things to do in Matheran?

Trekking, horse riding, stargazing, handicraft shopping, enjoying scenic views via toy train, camping etc.

What are the stay options available in Matheran?

From luxury resorts to budget and mid range hotels to home stays all type options are available in Matheran.

What are the foods to try in Matheran?

Fresh local fruits, authentic Maharashtrian thalis, vada pav, apart from these - gujarati, chinese, punjabi, etc all types of cuisines are available.

Is UPI/Card Payment available in Matheran?

UPI/Card Payment are not accepted in Matheran due to limited coverage. There are only two ATMs and even they dry-out funds. Carry enough Cash.

Do toy trains function in all seasons?

No, toy trains are not functional during monsoon.

What should I pack for a Matheran trip?

It mostly depends on the season you are visiting一winters you will need thick layers, summers, light and comfortable clothes, whereas in Monsoon, you will need windcheater, umbrellas etc, But good and comfortable shoes is a must in all the seasons.

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Thank You for stopping by on this website.

I hope, above information on Matheran Tour was helpful. Enjoy your journey and have a fantastic time exploring its mesmerizing wonders!

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