Clip-clop of Horses and the Rustle of Leaves: Exploring Automobile-Free Matheran the Old-School Way

Mumbai: In Matheran, the only traffic you’ll hear is the clip-clop of horses and the rustle of leaves, a rare escape into peace and nature.

Tucked away in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, Matheran is Asia’s only hill station where motor vehicles are completely banned. With no honking cars or bustling scooters, the town offers a tranquil, old-world charm that lets you travel the way people once did on foot, by horse, or even on a hand-pulled rickshaw.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting and exploring automobile-free Matheran, a destination that takes slow travel to heart.

A Hill Station Without Horns

Matheran’s ban on vehicles gives it a unique charm and makes it an ideal retreat for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking calm. Over 30 stunning viewpoints, colonial-era architecture, and the iconic red mud paths make this a perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai or Pune.

How to Explore: Matheran’s Charming Transport Options

1. Walk Your Way Through Wonder
The most fulfilling way to discover Matheran is on foot. The scenic red laterite trails are shaded and well-marked. Most viewpoints lie within 2–3 km of the main market.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and carry water to enjoy the walk.

2. Horseback Rides: Travel Like the Old Days
Horses are an iconic part of Matheran life. Local horsemen offer rides to various viewpoints, which is especially helpful if you’re short on time or energy.

Tip: Bargain for a fair price before the ride begins.

3. Hand-Pulled Rickshaws: Leisurely & Unique
These human-powered rickshaws are exclusive to Matheran and perfect for short rides or helping the elderly move around.

Tip: Choose this for gentle, scenic movement through the town.

4. Heritage Toy Train: Aman Lodge to Matheran
This short 20-minute ride is a nostalgic way to enter Matheran. The Matheran Hill Railway, built in 1907, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of India’s historic mountain railways.

How to Reach Matheran

Option 1: By TrainTake a train to Neral, the nearest station on the Mumbai–Pune route.
From Neral, board the toy train for a 2-hour scenic journey to Matheran.

Option 2: By RoadDrive or take a cab to Dasturi Point, the last motorable point.
From there, walk 2.5 km or choose a horse ride or rickshaw to reach Matheran.

Best Time to Visit

October to May: Ideal weather for walking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
June to September: The monsoon turns Matheran into a green paradise, though trails may be slippery.

What Makes Matheran Special?

1. Nature Walks & Forest Trails
Enjoy peaceful strolls among thick trees and chirping birds.

2. Sunrise & Sunset Views
Catch the sunrise at Panorama Point or sunset at Porcupine or Louisa Point.

3. Horseback Adventures
Experience the town like the early travellers did—on horseback.

4. Local Market & Street Food
Explore the bustling market with its leather goods, sweets like chikki, and snacks like vada pav and corn bhutta.

5. Colonial-Era Architecture
Admire the well-preserved bungalows and British-era hotels, including the quaint Matheran station.

6. Birdwatching & Wildlife
Look out for colourful birds, butterflies, and playful monkeys especially early in the morning.

7. Monsoon Magic
For those who don’t mind a bit of mud, the rainy season brings waterfalls, fog, and fewer tourists.

Matheran isn’t just a destination; it’s a mood—a reminder that slowing down is sometimes the best way forward. With no cars to race you, every moment here invites reflection, relaxation, and connection with nature.

Whether you walk, ride, or simply sit and take in the view, Matheran will leave you refreshed body, mind, and spirit.