Matheran, located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India, is a tranquil hill station renowned for its untouched natural beauty and a unique charm that comes from being Asia’s only automobile-free hill station. Situated at an altitude of around 800 meters (2,625 feet) above sea level, Matheran offers visitors a refreshing escape from the bustling city life with its cool climate and lush green surroundings.

One of the most distinctive features of Matheran is its strict ban on motor vehicles, ensuring a pollution-free environment where visitors can explore the town on foot, on horseback, or in hand-pulled rickshaws known as “dholis.” This eco-sensitive approach has preserved Matheran’s pristine air quality and serene ambiance, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.

Matheran is also famous for its heritage toy train, a narrow-gauge railway that runs from Neral to Matheran. This scenic train journey covers a picturesque route through forests and hills, offering passengers an enchanting experience reminiscent of a bygone era.