5 Unique Facts About Matheran

Located at an altitude of roughly 2,635 feet, Matheran is a distinctive hill station situated within the Sahyadri mountain range of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, India. Founded in 1850 CE by Hugh Malet, who served as the district collector of Thane at that time, Matheran is notably recognized as Asia’s sole automobile-free hill station and is among the most popular places to visit near Mumbai. The blend of colonial history and local traditions has contributed to the town’s unique culture. Its car-free atmosphere, toy train journey, picturesque viewpoints, and adventurous activities render it an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and families alike as part of the Maharashtra tour packages. Furthermore, there are some remarkable features of Matheran that you might not be aware of. Here are 5 unique facts that you know about Matheran.

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Asia’s only Automobile-Free Hill Station

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The most distinctive aspect of Matheran, which contributes to its uniqueness, is the prohibition of motor vehicles within the town, in contrast to Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala, which are among the most renowned hill stations near Pune. The primary rationale for this policy, implemented by the Indian government, is to maintain a pollution-free environment in this hill station, thereby designating Matheran as Asia’s sole automobile-free hill station, and among the most scenic places to visit as part of the Matheran tour packages. Vehicles are restricted from entering Matheran beyond Dasturi Point. Consequently, visitors must traverse 2.5 km on foot or by pony to reach Matheran from that point. If you are amenable to a lengthy walk, this is the optimal way to appreciate the beauty of nature as a day trip or a weekend retreat from Pune.

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Only Toy Train in Maharashtra

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Another unique and most interesting fact about Matheran is its Toy Train. Built in 1907 AD by Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy, it covers a distance of 20 km over large swathes of forest territory from Neral to Matheran, among the top places to visit near Pune. Also known as Matheran Light Railway, this is only toy train in Maharashtra and among the five historic mountain railways currently operating in India. Slithers across the lush green hills, this narrow gauge toy train has been proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site but is yet to be listed. It was temporarily suspended in May 2016 due to technical problems but started running again on a limited basis in January 2018. Travelling in a toy train is most memorable and can be experienced as part of Matheran Packages from Mumbai.

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Popular Matheran Tours

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Smallest Hill Station in India

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Located at an altitude of around 800 m in the Western Ghats range, Matheran is the smallest hill station in India, and among the most scenic hill stations near Mumbai. It covers an area of around 7 km and its population is around 6000. Developed by the British as a summer resort, Matheran is a peaceful place to enjoy the pleasant climate in other hill stations like Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala. With its abundant greenery and breathtaking views, Matheran is one of the most visited hill stations in Maharashtra and can be visited as part of Lonavala Tour Packages.

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35+ Viewpoints

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Like Mahabaleshwar, Matheran is well-known for its numerous vantage points that are covered with in 7 km. Among 35+ viewpoints, Porcupine Point, Panorama Point, Echo Point, King George Point, Louisa Point, Monkey Point, One Tree Hill Point, Rambaug Point, Heart Point, etc. are the important viewpoints that one must visit as part of the Matheran tour from Pune. From these points one can get a 360-degree view of the surrounding area, dramatic sunset and sunrise, the peaks of the Western Ghats, and a crystal clear view of the Prabal Fort, among the top places to visit in Matheran.

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Best Monsoon Destination

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Matheran is one of the stunning monsoon destinations in Maharashtra as the rainfall makes this place even more enchanting. The green blanket that covers the hills and small waterfalls around is a feast for the eyes. During monsoon, this smallest hill station also presents panoramic vistas and exceptional photography options. Besides Matheran, one can also experience monsoon tourism in Maharashtra as part of Mahabaleshwar Tour Packages.

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