Ultimate Travel Guide to Matheran: India’s Only Car-Free Hill Station
Explore the Heritage & History of Matheran Tucked away in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Matheran—meaning “forest on the forehead” in Marathi—is India’s only automobile-free hill station. Discovered in 1850 by British District Collector Hugh Poyntz Malet, Matheran quickly became a colonial summer retreat. The legacy of British bungalows, red mud roads, and scenic beauty still charms visitors today.
Ride Through Time: The Matheran Hill Railway Hop aboard the iconic Matheran Hill Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 1901 and 1907 by Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy, this toy train travels 20 km from Neral to Matheran, winding through thick forests and dramatic cliffs—an unmissable experience.
Top Reasons to Visit Matheran
Asia’s Only Car-Free Hill Station: No honking, no fumes—just nature and silence.
More Than 35 Scenic Viewpoints: Enjoy sunrise at Panorama Point, echoes at Echo Point, and sunsets at Porcupine Point.
Ideal for Nature & Adventure Lovers: Perfect for trekking, bird watching, and capturing natural beauty.
Biodiversity Hotspot: Part of the Western Ghats, Matheran is rich in flora and fauna.
How to Reach Matheran from Ahmedabad
By Air: Fly to Mumbai → taxi/train to Neral → toy train or trek to Matheran.
By Train: Ahmedabad → Mumbai/Neral → toy train or shared taxi.
By Road: Drive to Dasturi Point → walk, ride a horse, or take a hand-pulled rickshaw.
Must-Visit Attractions in Matheran
Echo Point – Test your voice in this naturally echoing spot.
Louisa Point – Stunning views of waterfalls and Prabal Fort.
Panorama Point – Best spot for sunrise and wide-angle views.
Charlotte Lake – Tranquil lake with Pisarnath Temple nearby.
Porcupine Point (Sunset Point) – Golden hour views.
One Tree Hill & Shivaji’s Ladder – Unique trek routes with history.
Dodhani Waterfalls – Thrilling spot for waterfall rappelling.