Matheran Hill Resort, Maharashtra
Matheran is an undulating hilltop cloaked in shady trees, that sprawls languidly
at an altitude of 800 m. The journey involves an adventurous two hour ascent
in a toy train.
With food and drink vendors and monkeys jumping on and off, as the valley glides
by sedately! Or a tough 11 km. Hike through thick and shady forests.
Matheran's cliffs with incredibly steep drops to the plains below create stunning
viewing points. These panoramic vistas, by day and night, leave you feeling
light-headed. The Hart Point offers a view of the lights of Mumbai at night!
All of Matheran is a series of such quixotically named points that are popular,
if isolated, sides of picnic and fireside revelry at night. Charlotte Lake,
the Panther's Caves and Paymaster Park are other attractions, especially for
children. The old world charm of the British and Parsi homes is an irresistible
draw.
The main bazaar offers a variety of items such as cane and leather articles,
hats, chappals and the sinfully sweet speciality - CHIKKI!
Vehicles of any kind are not permitted in the town, which makes it a very quiet,
serene place.
Temperatures vary from 16°C in winter to 32°C in summer, with an annual
rainfall of 524 cms.
October to May is the best time to visit.
Getting There:
Mumbai, 100 kms. away is the nearest airport. Neral 21 kms. away, is where you
transfer to the toy train. Mumbai is 108 kms. away by road, via Karjat and Neral.
Pune is 120 kms. away.
