Exploring Matheran: A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Start your Matheran adventure by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of this hill station. In the morning, embark on a scenic trek to the Charlotte Lake, a serene spot surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a picnic by the lake while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit Panorama Point for breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. As the evening sets in, explore the Matheran Market, known for its handicrafts and local delicacies.

• Charlotte Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Panorama Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Matheran Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Matheran is The Verandah. This charming restaurant offers a delightful outdoor seating area where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast. Their menu includes a variety of options such as pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Indian breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to The Byke Heritage. This restaurant serves a range of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. From their extensive menu, you can choose from dishes like biryani, noodles, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, visit Garden View Restaurant. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this restaurant offers a serene ambience and delectable multi-cuisine options. From North Indian curries to sizzlers and pizzas, they have something for everyone. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.

Friday, September 29, 2023

On your second day, delve into Matheran's colonial charm. Start your morning by taking a toy train ride from Matheran Railway Station to Neral. Experience the scenic beauty as the train chugs along the track. In the afternoon, explore the Louisa Point, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls. Don't miss the historic Prabal Fort, a popular attraction for history enthusiasts. In the evening, unwind at the beautiful Sunset Point and witness the mesmerizing colors of the sky as the sun goes down.

• Toy Train Ride: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Louisa Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Prabal Fort: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Sunset Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, September 30, 2023

On your final day, explore the adventure and recreational activities in Matheran. Start your morning by visiting the Echo Point, where you can shout out your name and hear it echo through the valley. In the afternoon, head to the Alexander Point, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. For a thrilling experience, try ziplining at the Honeymoon Point. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely horse ride through the scenic trails of Matheran.

• Echo Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Alexander Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Honeymoon Point (Ziplining): Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
• Horse Ride: Estimated cost - INR 300 per hour, Time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Matheran, make sure to visit the quaint Pisarnath Temple, tucked away amidst the greenery. It offers a peaceful ambiance and a glimpse into the local religious culture. Another hidden gem is the One Tree Hill Point, known for its panoramic views and the lone standing tree. This spot is perfect for capturing memorable family photos. Finally, don't miss out on trying the delicious local snacks, such as chikki (a sweet nut brittle) and vada pav (a popular street food), available at various stalls throughout Matheran.

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