No Cars, No Chaos: How To Explore Automobile-Free Matheran The Old-School Way

Nestled in the lush Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, Matheran is a hill station like no other. What sets it apart? It is the only hill station in Asia where motor vehicles are completely banned. That's right - no honking cars, no buzzing scooters, or traffic jam. Instead, the place just offers fresh mountain air, rustling trees, and the occasional horse trotting by. With over 30 beautiful viewpoints, old colonial buildings, and red mud paths through thick forests, Matheran is a favourite weekend getaway for people from Mumbai and Pune (and beyond). Whether you are a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking to unwind, this little hill town has something for everyone.

So, how do you explore a place where wheels are off-limits? Let's take a look at the charming, old-school ways to get around in Matheran.

Also Read: The Art Of Travelling Slow: The Complete Guide On The 'Slow Travel' Trend

Exploring Matheran: The Joy Of Slow Travel

1. On Foot: The Best Way To Soak It All In

Walking is the most popular and rewarding way to explore Matheran. The red laterite paths are well-marked, and the forest canopy offers shade even on sunny days. Most viewpoints are within 2-3 km of the main market area.

Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and enjoy the slow pace.

2. Horseback Rides: A Nostalgic Experience

Horses are a traditional mode of transport here. Local horsemen offer rides to various points, and it is a fun way to cover more places if you are short on time or energy.

Pro tip: Rates are negotiable. So, it is best to agree on a price before you start.

3. Hand-Pulled Rickshaws: For A Leisurely Ride

These human-powered rickshaws are unique to Matheran. While they are not the fastest, they can surely be a charming way to travel short distances.

Pro tip: It is the best way to take elderly tourists or people with mobility issues around.

4. Toy Train: Aman Lodge To Matheran

One of the most charming ways to enter Matheran is by taking the heritage toy train from Aman Lodge to Matheran station. This short, scenic ride lasts about 20 minutes, but it is more than just a commute. This toy train journey will take you back in time.

Did you know? The Matheran Hill Railway was built in 1907 by Abdul Hussein Adamjee Peerbhoy. It was designed to connect the hill station to the main railway line at Neral, making it easier for British officials to escape the summer heat. Today, it is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and recognised as a cultural landscape and a part of the broader "Mountain Railways of India".

Also Read: 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites In India That Are Extra Magical During The Monsoon

_{Photo Credit: Pexels}

How To Reach Matheran?

Step 1. By train to Neral

The nearest railway station is Neral, located on the Mumbai-Pune route. It is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai and Pune, making it a convenient starting point for your journey.

Step 2. Toy train from Neral

From Neral, you can board the toy train and enjoy the ride that winds through dense forests and hills. The ride takes about two hours and offers a scenic experience.

Alternative Option:

Step 1. By road to Dasturi Point

If you prefer driving, head to Dasturi Point, the last motorable location before entering Matheran. Parking is available here for private vehicles and taxis.

Step 2. On foot or traditional transport

From Dasturi Point, Matheran is about 2.5 km away. You can walk along the shaded red mud paths or opt for a horse ride or a hand-pulled rickshaw.

_{Photo Credit: Pexels}

Best Time To Visit Matheran:

The ideal time to explore Matheran is between October and May. During these months, the weather is pleasantly cool, making it perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and soaking in the natural beauty.

The monsoon season, from June to September, also offers a lush green view of the hill town. But it can make the trails slippery and less accessible due to frequent rains and occasional landslides.

7 Best Experiences In Matheran:

A mere search on the internet will offer you the best viewpoints in Matheran. But the town has more to it. A trip to Matheran is about slowing down, tuning into nature, and enjoying the little things. Here's what makes it truly memorable:

1. Nature Walks And Forest Trails

Stroll through dense forests, listen to birdsong, and breathe in the crisp, clean air. The red mud trails are beautiful. especially after a drizzle.

2. Horseback Riding Adventures

Riding a horse through the winding paths is a quintessential Matheran experience.

3. Sunrise And Sunset Views

Catch the sunrise at Panorama Point and the sunset at Porcupine Point or Louisa Point. The changing colours of the sky over the Sahyadris are simply magical.

4. Explore Local Market And Street Food

The Matheran market is full of handmade leather goods, chikki (a local sweet), and quirky souvenirs. Don't miss out on local snacks like vada pav, corn bhutta, and hot masala chai.

5. Colonial-Era Architecture

Walk past charming old bungalows, British-era hotels, and the quaint Matheran railway station. The town has preserved its colonial heritage to its best.

6. Birdwatching And Wildlife

Matheran is home to a variety of birds, butterflies, and even monkeys. Early mornings are perfect for spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.

7. Monsoon Magic For The Adventurous Soul

If you are okay with a bit of mud and mist, visit Matheran during the monsoon. The town turns mystical during this time of the year, with greenery all around, waterfalls, foggy trails, and fewer crowds.

Also Read: 17 Things You Can Only Experience In Goa During Monsoon Season

_{Photo Credit: Pexels}

The Bottom Line: Matheran Is For Slow Travellers

Matheran invites you to relax and rejuvenate. With no cars to honk you into stress, every step here is a chance to reconnect with nature and yourself. So, pack light, breathe deep, and let Matheran show you the joy of old-school travel.