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Place in Maharashtra, India
Photo: Arne Hückelheim, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Matheran is the closest hill station to Mumbai. It is in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. There are a number of lookout points that provide spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
formerly Verandah in the Forest
This is a heritage bungalow, opened in the 19th century and patronised by expats and the well-heeled Mumbai crowd. It is generally full on weekends. It is well away from the crowded centre of Matheran town, and not far from where the road turns from wide dusty horse-path to quiet footpaths.
Is of the expensive options May not be the most luxurious around, but it's a charming place whose owners bend over backwards to make you feel at home. It has a well placed pool, small library, bar, dining room and a giant chess board.
By shared car
There are many share-a-cabs which take you to Matheran from Neral. The distance from Neral to Dasturi Point, the last point to which vehicles are allowed in Matheran, is 11 km.
By car
Cars are not allowed within Matheran.
On foot
There are several walking trails which ascend the Matheran Plateau. These are used by local people commuting to the hill station as well as the occasional intrepid holiday-maker.
As motor vehicles are banned, there are three ways of getting around in Matheran: walking (all the trails have signboards marking the way and the locals are quite helpful), on horseback, or by e-rickshaw.
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