Journalism of Courage
Are you considering a refreshing trip close to your city? Mumbaikers have a reason to visit Matheran this season; it is opening up to tourists after relaxing Covid restrictions. The hill station is located just 83 km from the city, and can be visited in a day with friends and family. If this seems tempting to you, scroll down to find out what all you can do here. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
Matheran is one of the smallest hill stations in the country, situated in Maharashtra's Raigad district, on the Western Ghats. Since it is located in an elevated region, the weather is comparatively cooler and less humid, making it popular among tourists in the summer months. At the moment, tourism activities have gained momentum here. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
Recently tourists were photographed riding horses here. There are many ways to move around from one point to another, and horses are a popular mode of transport here. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
As are hand-drawn carts and rickshaws. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
The one thing that sets the hill station apart is absence of fast transport. Life is slower here without any rush of cars, buses and everyday traffic. The decision was taken by the state to keep the place peaceful and pristine. This is why people looking for quietude come here. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
Matheran welcomes trekkers, adventure seekers and also photographers, giving them breathtaking views of nature. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
If you are wondering about local transport, besides horses and rickshaws, know that the Matheran Hill Railway provides connectivity to the nearby town of Neral, and there is even toy train connectivity here, linked to the mainline rail route of Neral. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
It should be noted that the toy train service from Neral to Matheran is likely to resume in October this year, as there is track repair work going on right now. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
The narrow gauge toy train from Aman lodge to Matheran market is heavily in demand due to the complete ban of private vehicles in the hill station. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
It is understood that tourism activity is likely to increase during summer vacation time with an influx of more families. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)
