Matheran
Tourism
Barely 171 kms from Mumbai, Matheran, discovered by Hugh Mallet, collector
of Thane district, in 1850, has long been a refuge for humidity-stricken Mumbaikars
(as the residents of the metropolis are known). Its 8 sq kms cover a hilltop
in the Sahyadri Hills, and its proximity to Mumbai ensures its' continued popularity
for weekend getaways. All motor vehicles are prohibited in Matheran, so the
air is squeaky clean. However the only mode of transport, other than walking,
is on horseback and hand-pulled rickshaws.
How to Getting There
By Air
The nearest airport, Mumbai, 100 km, is well connected with national and international
flights. From there, you'll need to switch to train or road.
By Rail
The rail journey to Matheran is half the fun of your trip. Neral, the nearest
railhead (21 km), is connected to Mumbai, Pune and other parts of Maharashtra.
From here, a special, narrow gauge "toy train" gets you up, puffing
and wheezing all the way. Except during the monsoon season (June-September),
there are several trains a day on the mountain railway. These take 2 hours to
cover the climb to their destination. Stations on the way have names like Water
pipe and there is also the famous One Kiss Tunnel. During the monsoon, the service
is restricted to one train a day and during heavy rains even this can be cancelled
due to landslides.
By Road
State Transport buses regularly ply from Mumbai and Pune. A taxi from Neral
to Matheran takes about half hour to reach. Taxis stop about 2.5 km from the
centre of the hill station.
Click here for Palces
to See in Matheran
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