Domain of Hecate

Why Matheran:
- Very Convenient - just 80-km east of Mumbai.
- Pollution Free - No motor transport allowed within the matheran limits. Only such city in the world Other than Venice

Matheran is at an attitude of 2,500 feet. The sylvan green surroundings, the beckoning silence of the woods and the serene surroundings of this hill station are quite inviting (avoid visiting Matheran on weekends if your prefer peace and quiet). The silence of the woods is broken by the pranks of the mischievous monkey's who are found in abundance and they try to attract the attention of the visitor's for small tit-bits to fill their bellies, sometimes to the point of greediness.


How to reach Matheran:
- drive from Mumbai: it might take 2.5 - 3 hrs. Remember there is a uphill drive of about 7 odd kms on the way and the driver should have experience of driving in the hills.

- Best option:
Train to Neral. Neral is in central line in Mumbai subirban Railways. If you are travelling through air, Sion/kurla may be the nearest station to catch a fast local to Neral. For Neral one needs to catch trains to Karjat/ Khapoli. Trains are available almost every 45 - 50 mins. Get down at Neral.

Travel to Matheran from Neral:
Option A: Take a shared cab (currently Rs. 50 per person) from Neral to Matheran. You will have to get down at Matheran limits and then go to the townside on foot/ horseback. Journey time: 30 mins

option B: Take the Toy train......you must try it at least one way in the journey. It is advisable to book it online through indian Railways rather than going to Neral and buying it there. This is because there are only a few trains during the day and limited seats are available within the train. First Class ticket costs Rs. 210/- and second class 37/- (as on Jan 2008)

The trip has four stops. The train chugs through the hills with vivid glimpses of the ghats along the way. One gets enough soft drink and snacks choices along the way at stations. Remember those who are booked at MTDC resort should get down at Aman lodge stop or the penultimate one.
Journey time: 2 hrs

Where to stay?
There are private resorts of various choices. Try travelguru.com for some choices.


You may also like to book a MTDC resort which pretty nice accomodation. This can be done online, The rate are pretty reasonable ( Rs. 600 - 2000 per night). One thing to remember though that the resort is half an hour trek from the town.

Eating Out:
Khans - Hukkas and Kababs, janta Chikki and Fudge, Butter Sweet Corn

Shopping - Bargaining skill needed. footwear in day haats

Labels: Matheran