Matheran or ‘forest on the forehead of the mountains,’ is an automobile-free hill station that is well-connected from Mumbai and Pune. If you are a nature lover and crave to witness scenic viewpoints, then this blog is for you. What you can expect from this one-day trip to Matheran from Pune is an adventure, enchanting views, lush green surroundings, and more. The sights to behold are a treat to the eyes as the beauty is unparalleled. You won’t get tired of the sight of such amazing surroundings and want to visit again!
One-Day Trip To Matheran From Pune
Matheran is one of the scenic hill stations to explore on a short getaway. Here is a list of places you can explore on a one-day trip to Matheran from Pune:
1. Alexander Point
Alexander Point is among the top places to head to on your one-day trip to Matheran from Pune. The icing on the cake is that you get to witness breathtaking views of Rambaug Point, Ulhas River, Palasdari Lake, Garbut Point, and Chowk Point. The serene surroundings make the trek experience a treat for the sight as well. You can opt for a horseback ride if you don’t want to trek to Alexander Point. There are food joints on the premises so that you can satiate your hunger pangs. The sunrise from this point is a thing you shouldn’t miss. Adventure enthusiasts can also indulge in ziplining from Alexander Point to Rambaug Point and enjoy the thrill that follows.
Location: Alexander Point Trail, Matheran, Maharashtra 410102
Timings: 5 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Must Read: 18 Thrilling Things To Do In Pune
2. Charlotte Lake
Tired after trekking? You can head to Charlotte Lake and just sit there and bask in the glory of nature. The lake is the main source of water for the Matheran town. It is an ideal place for a picnic with family and friends, with lush greenery as the backdrop. Solo travellers can also head here to enjoy solace. Echo Point and Louisa Point are visible from this serene spot. You can also spot migratory birds during morning and evening hours, making it a treat for nature lovers and birdwatchers as well. Beware of the monkeys though! And, keep the lake clean as it is the source of drinking water for the localités.
Location: Matheran, Maharashtra 410102
Timings: 5 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: Free
3. Pisarnath Mahadev Temple
Situated on the banks of Charlotte Lake, Pisarnath Mahadev Temple is a religious site dedicated to Lord Shiva. As per ancient beliefs, the Shiva lingam here is swayambhu or self-manifested and there are two elements which make it contrasting. One is that the colour of the Shiva lingam is red because of the smudging vermillion (sindoor). The other is that it is tilted to one side, unlike the straight Shiva lingams found everywhere. The temple can be seen in festive fervour during Shivratri, Ram Navami, and Diwali. Make sure you include this religious spot in your itinerary of places to visit in Matheran in one day.
Location: Raigad District, Matheran, Maharashtra 410206
Timings: 6 am to 12:30 pm, 4 pm to 9:30 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: 8 Insanely Gorgeous Destinations Near Pune
4. Dodhani Waterfalls
Located on the base of Matheran Hills, Dodhani Waterfalls is one of the famous places in Matheran with exhilarating landscape views. Those who want to seek adventure by undertaking activities in Matheran can try Abseiling (Rappelling) with proper safety gear and equipment, under the supervision of professionals. This thrilling adventure is not only confined to experienced people but to amateurs as well. Alternatively, those who don’t want to try rappelling can simply soak in the view of the picturesque surroundings. It is one of those places that will make you feel closer to nature.
Location: Matheran, Maharashtra 410206
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Free
5. One Tree Hill Point
Image Credit: KartikMistry for Wikimedia Commons
As the name suggests, One Tree Hill Point is a scenic spot with only a Jambhul tree standing at the top, surrounded by lush greenery all around. The trek to this point starts from Ambewadi, near Karjat, where there is a small Ganesha Temple. Those who don’t want to trek can take a horse ride to this point. As per sayings, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj travelled through this trail and later the steps were named ‘Shivaji Steps’ or ‘Shivaji Ladder.’ The trekking trail is steep, hence, it is advised to be a little cautious.
Location: MG Rd, Matheran, Karjat, Maharashtra 410102
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Free
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How To Reach Matheran?
If your mode of transportation is airways, Pune International Airport in Pune is where you have to deboard. After that, take a taxi or bus to Matheran. For people planning a Matheran trip from Pune by train, get down at Karjat Railway Station and take a local train to Neral, from where you can enjoy a toy train journey to Matheran. Moreover, if you have opted for a road journey, you can book a cab to Dasturi Naka and then take a horse ride as Matheran is an automobile-free hill station. Hence, you cannot plan a non-stop journey from Pune to Matheran by car.
Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip as the trip involves trekking on uneven and rocky paths.
- Keep your camera ready to capture the enchanting views.
- Avoid planning a trip to Matheran during the rainy season as the hilly area gets risk-prone.
- Carry mosquito repellent with you.
- Carry bottles of water & energy drinks to keep yourself hydrated and snacks & ready-to-eat food to satiate your hunger pangs, as trekking may exhaust you.
- It is recommended to return to the base point before sunset i.e. during daylight.
- Carry light woollen wear as the evenings are cool due to a drop in the temperature.
Further Read: 20 Enticing Resorts In Pune For Couples
Excited to explore such scenic locations on your one-day trip to Matheran from Pune? We know your answer! Plan your next Pune trip soon and spare a day for the scenic hill station of Matheran so that you don’t miss out on nature’s exceptional beauty. Refer to the aforementioned list for your itinerary so that you can have an incredible vacation experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About One-Day Trip To Matheran From Pune
Is a one-day trip possible to Matheran from Pune?
Yes, you can plan a one-day trip to Matheran from Pune and visit the major sightseeing tourist attractions such as Charlotte Lake, Pisarnath Mahadev Temple, One Tree Hill Point, Dodhani Waterfalls, and Alexander Point.
How to go to Matheran from Pune by train?
If you are travelling by train, get down at Karjat Railway Station and take a local train to Neral, from where you can enjoy a toy train journey to Matheran.
What is the fare of the mini train in Matheran?
The ticket fare of the Mini train from Neral to Matheran is between INR 75 to INR 300 for adults and INR 45 to INR 180 for children. The train services are however stopped during the monsoon season every year.
Which time is best for a Matheran trip?
The best time to plan a trip to Matheran is from October to January and April to June. The weather conditions are pleasant making the sightseeing a wonderful experience.
Can we go to Matheran by own car?
You cannot take your vehicle to Matheran as it is a non-motor vehicle hill station. However, you can park your car in Dasturi Naka, from where you can have a fun toy train ride or a horse ride to Matheran.
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