One-Day Easy Exploration of Matheran from Kandivli

Day 1: Easy Sightseeing

Matheran, India on June 28, 2025

5:30am

Depart Kandivli Station

Board an early local train from Kandivli to Neral, approximately 70 km travelling east, journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours ensuring a timely arrival to Matheran with the day ahead for exploration.
INR50, 3h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at Neral Station

Grab a quick and filling breakfast at the local stalls near Neral station serving South Indian and Maharashtrian snacks to energize before heading to Matheran.
INR150, 0h30m

9:00am

Travel from Neral to Matheran

Take the scenic toy train (about 20-minute ride) or a shared taxi from Neral to Dasturi Naka, the base point to enter Matheran. Taxi distance is approximately 20km, offering views of the Western Ghats.
Toy train INR100, Taxi INR300, 0h30m

9:45am

Walk from Dasturi Naka to Market Area Matheran

A pleasant 1.5 km walk (about 25 minutes) along vehicle-free paths through lush greenery leading to the Matheran market area where you can begin sightseeing.
Free, 0h30m

10:15am

Charlotte Lake

Enjoy the serene beauty of Charlotte Lake, a peaceful water body surrounded by cliffs. It's ideal for a gentle walk and nature photography. Open all day, no entry fee.
Free, 0h45m

11:00am

Echo Point

A 1km easy walk from Charlotte Lake leads to Echo Point, famous for its natural echo phenomenon and panoramic landscape views. A must-visit for a quick fun stop and photo opportunity.
Free, 0h30m

11:45am

Louisa Point

Proceed further by foot (approx. 2km) or local horse ride to Louisa Point for an expansive view of the Sahyadri ranges and Dhom Dam. It is one of Matheran's top viewpoints and always refreshing.
Horse ride INR150 (optional), Free if walking, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Panorama Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed Maharashtrian and Indian cuisine meal at Panorama Hotel overlooking scenic vistas. The eatery is open from 12pm to 3pm, perfect for lunch.
INR500, 1h0m

1:45pm

Louisa Point to One Tree Hill

Walk about 1.5 km to One Tree Hill, another fantastic view point offering lush greenery and valley views which is accessible via easy trails. Great spot for rest and photography.
Free, 0h45m

2:30pm

Visit Heart Point and Panorama Point

Combine visits to Heart Point and Panorama Point, which are 1-2 km walks from One Tree Hill. These natural viewpoints offer stunning heart-shaped rock formations and a 360-degree landscape.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Tea Break at Matheran Market

Return to the market area for a refreshing tea or cold drink at one of the local cafes, resting your feet before your journey back. Cafes typically open all day till 6pm.
INR100, 0h30m

4:00pm

Walk back to Dasturi Naka

Enjoy an easy downhill 1.5 km walk back to Dasturi Naka, appreciating last views of the natural beauty and crisp mountain air.
Free, 0h30m

4:30pm

Return to Neral

Take the toy train or shared taxi back to Neral station for your onward journey to Kandivli. Toy train departs approximately every 45 minutes; check schedule for exact timing.
Toy train INR100, Taxi INR300, 0h30m

5:15pm

Train from Neral to Kandivli

Board a local train from Neral back to Kandivli. Trains run regularly in the evening; journey time around 3 hours providing a relaxed end to your day trip.
INR50, 3h0m