Motorcycle Riding Adventure: Matheran Bhimashankar
Thursday, September 28, 2023: Matheran
In the morning, start your motorcycle riding adventure from Mumbai and head to Matheran, a beautiful hill station known for its pleasant weather and breathtaking views. Ride through scenic routes surrounded by lush greenery and enjoy the fresh air. Afternoon can be spent exploring the town on foot or taking a horseback ride to popular viewpoints like Louisa Point and Panorama Point. In the evening, witness a magnificent sunset from Rambagh Point while enjoying a cup of tea.
- Matheran Town: Estimated Cost - Fuel for Motorcycle, Estimated Time Spent - Full Day
- Louisa Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
- Panorama Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
- Rambagh Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, September 29, 2023: Matheran
In the morning, wake up early to catch the sunrise from the famous Charlotte Lake. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take a leisurely walk around the lake. After breakfast, explore the dense forests and beautiful trails of Matheran on your motorcycle. Visit attractions like Porcupine Point, Monkey Point, and Hart Point for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. In the evening, relax at the tranquil Pisarnath Temple and witness the evening aarti.
- Charlotte Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
- Porcupine Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
- Monkey Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
- Hart Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
- Pisarnath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
Saturday, September 30, 2023: Matheran to Bhimashankar
Start your day by riding from Matheran to Bhimashankar, a pilgrimage site famous for the Bhimashankar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy the scenic ride through the Western Ghats, passing through picturesque landscapes and charming villages. After reaching Bhimashankar, visit the temple and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance. Spend the evening exploring the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna.
- Bhimashankar Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
- Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - Entry Fee, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Matheran, known for its wide range of delicious breakfast options. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes or crispy bacon and eggs. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
- For lunch, head to the Green Village Restaurant, where you can relish authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. Enjoy dishes like vada pav, pav bhaji, and thali meals. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
- End your day with a delightful dinner at The Woods Inn, a charming restaurant offering a serene ambiance and a delectable menu. Enjoy their special seafood platter or savor their mouthwatering continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, October 1, 2023: Bhimashankar
Embark on an adventurous early morning trek to Bhimashankar Peak, the highest point in the region. Experience the thrill of hiking through dense forests and rocky terrains, and be rewarded with stunning panoramic views from the top. After descending, visit the Nagphani Point, also known as the Cobra's Hood, for its unique rock formations. In the evening, explore the nearby villages and interact with the locals to get a glimpse of their rural lifestyle.
- Bhimashankar Peak Trek: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 6-8 hours
- Nagphani Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
- Village Exploration: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
- A must-visit breakfast spot is The Hillside Cafe, known for its delicious omelettes and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
- For a delightful lunch, head to The Forest Retreat Restaurant, offering a variety of traditional Indian dishes that are made with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
- End your day with a fantastic dinner at The Terrace Grill, where you can enjoy grilled seafood and succulent kebabs while enjoying the scenic beauty. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, October 2, 2023: Bhimashankar to Mumbai
Start your journey back to Mumbai from Bhimashankar, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats one last time. Take breaks at local dhabas (roadside eateries) to savor delicious regional cuisine. Arrive in Mumbai by late afternoon and return your motorcycle. In the evening, explore the bustling streets of Mumbai, visit iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, and indulge in some street food at Chowpatty Beach.
- Mumbai Return Journey: Estimated Cost - Fuel for Motorcycle, Estimated Time Spent - Full Day
- Gateway of India: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
- Chowpatty Beach: Estimated Cost - Food Expenses, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For motorcycle riding enthusiasts seeking off the beaten path attractions, consider exploring the lesser-known trails and routes in Matheran and Bhimashankar. Take the Neral-Matheran Toy Train route for a unique riding experience through picturesque landscapes. In Bhimashankar, explore the nearby villages like Khandas and Shidi, which offer scenic beauty and a glimpse into the local culture. These hidden gems are perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and connect with the locals on their motorcycle adventure.