Weekend getaway to Matheran

Been busy for quite a long time, my husband finally decided to take a break. We finalised for Matheran but were sceptical about it. Instead of driving we decided to take train from Dadar. After one and a half hour of traveling we reached Neral. Sadly we missed out Matheran's famous 'Toy train ride' and had to take a share cab till Dasturi point. No vehicles are allowed at Matheran as they wanted to maintain it as pollution free zone. The main market place is almost an hour walk from dasturi point. It is worth walking down the pathway with lush greenery. As we started our way to hotel the first thought that came to my mind is this what it is to be happy. Sky-high hills, roaring waterfalls and lush greenery. Matheran is nested in Western Ghats, 2625 feet above sea level.

Walking for quite a time, We reached our hotel. Matheran has the influence of British and Parsi styles, giving it a combination of global and local charm. It was a bungalow converted to a hotel, built by Hon'ble Mr. Abdul Hussein Adamjee Peerbhoy. The panoramic view from hotel balcony was breathtaking. Away from the noise of the city, we could feel the fresh air, bird's chirping... We unpacked our bags, had our breakfast, rested for while and left for the market place.

Matheran is famous for its leather products and chikki. The main market is usually a busy street with a number of shops selling shoes, slippers, sandals and other leather goods. Lots of varieties of Chikki (made of peanut and jaggery). An advice, beware of monkeys as you dont know from where they will appear and snatch your stuff away. They are not harmful but dont try to mess around with them.

There are many designated look-out points in Matheran, namely Little Chowk Point, Hart Point, Rambagh Point and so on. They offers an opportunity to view beauty of the hills, valley, low lying plains and quite villages. Not to forget about about famous Pisarnath Temple. It is located on the banks of the Charlotte lake. If you are adventure freak, try valley crossing from Honeymoon Point to Louisa Point. There are many trekking routes to Matheran. Garbert Plateau being the favorite of all. The trek starts from Bhivpuri station.

The magic of Matheran has to be appreciated; if you are nature lover, no doubt this spot should definitely appear on the top of your holiday destination list. The true nature lies here..!!