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Matheran Station: Hotels, Restaurants, and Best Places to Visit (2025 Travel Guide)
Matheran Station is one of India’s most unique and eco-friendly hill station railway stops, celebrated for its tranquil beauty, charming toy train rides, and colonial-era architecture. If you’re thinking of visiting Maharashtra’s stunning hill station, this guide will cover everything you need to know — from the Matheran station name to how to get there, as well as the best hotels, restaurants, and places to explore near Matheran station.
📍 Matheran Station Name & Location
The official Matheran station name is Matheran Railway Station (Station Code: MAE). It’s part of the scenic Matheran Hill Railway line, which connects Neral Junction to Matheran, spanning about 21 kilometers of lush forests and winding hill tracks.
Nearest Major Station: Neral Junction (Central Railway)
State: Maharashtra
District: Raigad
Elevation: 803 meters above sea level
🚆 How to Reach Matheran Station
You can get to Matheran Station by taking the Matheran Toy Train from Neral Junction. This heritage train ride lasts about 2 hours and presents some amazing views of the Western Ghats. If you prefer to drive, cars and taxis can only go as far as Dasturi Naka (2.5 km from Matheran station), since Matheran is a vehicle-free hill station.
After Dasturi Naka, you can walk, take a horse ride, or hop on a hand-pulled rickshaw to reach the station.
👉 Check out: Railway Food Price List 2025-26
🏨 Hotels Near Matheran Station
Matheran has a variety of hotel options, ranging from budget lodges to luxurious heritage stays, all within walking distance from the railway station. Here are some popular picks:
- Regal Hotel Matheran – A stylish colonial-style stay with a pool, gardens, and delicious food.
- The Byke Heritage – One of the oldest heritage hotels near Matheran station, known for its vegetarian fare and old-world charm.
- Horseland Hotel and Mountain Spa – Great for families, featuring modern amenities and horse-riding packages.
- Westend Hotel – Offers a vintage vibe, eco-friendly atmosphere, and close proximity to beautiful viewpoints.
- Adamo The Resort – A premium option with lovely cottages and a relaxing spa experience.
Most hotels are just a 5-10 minute stroll from Matheran station, providing a serene retreat surrounded by nature.
🍴 Restaurants Near Matheran Station
If you love food, you’ll be happy to find a bunch of charming restaurants and local eateries near Matheran Station. Here are a few that you shouldn’t miss:
- Garden View Restaurant – Known for authentic Maharashtrian thalis and North Indian dishes.
- Hotel Panorama Restaurant – A multi-cuisine restaurant that serves Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes.
- Shivneri Restaurant – Perfect for quick snacks and bites near the station.
- Rangoli Restaurant – A vegetarian-friendly spot offering Gujarati and Punjabi cuisine.
- Street Food Stalls – Be sure to try local specialties like Vada Pav, Bhajiyas, and Chikki available near the market area.
🌄 Places to Visit Near Matheran Station
Matheran is packed with stunning viewpoints and peaceful walking paths, all easily accessible from the railway station. Here are the top places to visit near Matheran station:
1. Panorama Point
Also called the “Sunrise Point,” it boasts breathtaking 360-degree views of the valley. Definitely worth a visit in the early morning.
2. Echo Point
True to its name, Echo Point is well-known for its natural echo and beautiful views of Charlotte Lake.
3. Charlotte Lake
Just 2 km from the station, this scenic lake is perfect for taking photos and enjoying quiet walks.
4. Louisa Point
Provides panoramic views of Prabal Fort and Vishalgad Fort — a favorite spot for sunset watchers.
5. One Tree Hill Point
A unique hilltop featuring a single tree, offering captivating views of the valley. Highly popular with trekkers.
6. Alexander Point
Quieter and less crowded, it’s a great spot for couples and photographers looking for some peace.
7. Matheran Market
Just a short walk from the station, the market is perfect for picking up local chikki, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
🕒 Best Time to Visit Matheran
The best time to head to Matheran is between October and May. The weather stays cool, making it ideal for sightseeing and nature walks. The monsoon season (June–September) turns the area into a lush green paradise, though the toy train might not run during heavy rains.
💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Matheran Station
- Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be getting around on foot or horseback.
- Carry cash – there aren’t many ATMs around.
- Avoid plastic – Matheran is a plastic-free zone.
- Stay hydrated – it can get humid in the summer.
- Book hotels ahead of time, especially on weekends and holidays.
🔗 Related Reads
🧭 Google Featured Snippet Summary
Matheran Station (MAE) is a hill station railway stop in Maharashtra, India, famous for its toy train, eco-friendly surroundings, and closeness to tourist spots like Echo Point, Charlotte Lake, and Panorama Point. Top hotels near Matheran station include Regal Hotel, The Byke Heritage, and Horseland Hotel. You can enjoy local dishes at places like Garden View or Rangoli Restaurant — all just a short walk from the station.
✅ Frequently Asked Question
What is the nearest major railway station to Matheran?
The closest major railway station to Matheran is Neral Junction on the Central Railway line. From Neral, you can take the Matheran Toy Train or catch a taxi to Dasturi Naka, followed by a short walk or horse ride to Matheran Station.
