If you are planning a trip to a place completely devoid of traffic noise, crowds of cars, and honking sounds, the hill resort of Matharethan in the state of Maharashtra could be the perfect choice. Located amidst the Sahyadri hills, this picturesque resort attracts visitors not only for its natural beauty but also because motorized transport is prohibited here.
Upon arriving in Matharethan, travelers must move on foot, by horse, or in manually pulled carts. It is precisely because of this that the atmosphere here feels very calm and tranquil. The red dirt roads, dense forests, old buildings from the British Empire era, and magnificent mountain views make a trip to Matharethan unforgettable.
The most preferred way to explore the sights of Matharethan is by walking. Numerous beautiful trails run through the territory, passing through forest areas. Most of the main viewpoints are located several kilometers from the central market. For comfortable travel, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
For those who do not wish to walk much, horseback riding is available. Horses have long been a traditional means of transport in Matharethan. Additionally, there are hand-pulled carts available, which is a convenient option for the elderly or those who have difficulty with long walks.
Another wonderful way to reach Matharethan is by taking a small train ride. This miniature train runs between Aman Lodge and Matharethan itself, passing through green landscapes and mountain routes. Although the journey itself takes only about twenty minutes, the experience remains quite special.
The history of the Matharethan railway is quite old: it was built in 1907 to facilitate access to the hill resort from Narel. Today, this train is an integral part of Matharethan's identity.
To begin the journey to Matharethan, one can take a train to Narel. Narel is located on the Mumbai-Pune railway line and serves as the starting point for further travel to Matharethan.
If you are traveling by car, you can drive or take a taxi to Dasturi Point. However, beyond this point, entry of private vehicles is forbidden. Dasturi Point is approximately 2.5 kilometers from Matharethan, from where you can continue your journey on foot, by horse, or in handcarts.
The best time to visit Matharethan is from October to May, when the weather is considered pleasant and walks proceed without much difficulty. Nevertheless, during the monsoon season, from June to September, the beauty of Matharethan reveals itself in a completely different way. During this time, the mountains are covered in greenery, waterfalls appear, and the air is filled with mist. However, it should be noted that during the rainy season, the roads can be slippery, and heavy rainfall can cause problems on some routes.
