Jungle on Top - Matheran - Part1

Quote of the Post: "Matheran is just the perfect place to find peace away from the hustle-bustle lifestyle, and take a break to relax, enjoy the poetic nature all around." - Quote about Matheran - Sachin Kumar Gupta

No honking, just calm! calm! calm! 

Feeling frazzled, I visited Matheran on a two day break from Pune with Meenal, Saloni, Piyush, Monika, Tara, Komal, and Vijay. 

Lets go to Matheran, hundred years back in time to feel old-world charm, when there were no vehicles. It is one of the few places in the world where vehicles are not allowed, not even bicycles which makes the place different from others. Mode of transport is by horse, hand pulled carts or by walking. There is no pollution, despite the thousands of visitors that come visiting through the year. Matheran has been declared an eco-sensitive region by the Ministry of Environment and Forest, (MoEF) Government of India. This popular weekend getaway located around 90 km from Mumbai, and 120 km from Pune. It is the nearest hill station from Mumbai, and real beauty of Matheran is best viewed in monsoon. The best time to visit is just after the monsoon, from mid September to mid October, when nature is still lush and green after rains.

It is a quiet hill station located in the Sahyadri range situated in Karjat Tahsil, Raigad District of Maharashtra, India. Mumbai and Pune are two Major cities connected to Matheran by Road. Dasturi Naka (Aman Lodge) is the last point to which cars are allowed. One can easily find a place to park the vehicles nearby. Shared auto and taxis are available from Neral to Dasturi Naka.

Map to reach Matheran Hill Station

Ways to Reach Matheran Main Place:

Mumbai - Navi Mumbai - Panvel - Neral - Dasturi Naka - at the tip of Matheran. 

Pune - Lonavala/Khandala - Khopoli Exit - Karjat Rail Crossing - Neral - Dasturi Naka - Matheran.  

There are regular road signs to guide you. Matheran is popular among trekkers. I love to share ways to reach Matheran as per my experiences and study before visits to Matheran.

Way1: 

[A] Local or Express Train to Neral Station (Check Railway Timetable) 

[B] Mini/Toy Train from Neral Station to Matheran Station (Approx 2 Hrs). The more enthusiasts, trek it from Neral. [3-4 hrs] 

Way2:

[A] Local or Express Train to Neral Station (Check Railway Timetable) 

[B] Shared auto or Taxi from Neral Station to Dasturi Naka (Approx 20-30 Minutes) 

[C] Walk, horseride or hand pulled rickshaws from Dasturi Naka to Memorial Hall (opposite to Matheran railway station) (Approx 30-60 Minutes)

Way3:

A] Bike or car drive upto Dasturi Naka.  

B] Walk, horseride or hand pulled rickshaws from Dasturi Naka to Memorial Hall (opposite to Matheran railway station) (Approx 30-60 Minutes)

Matheran Toy Train (Phulrani): Matheran is famous for the mini train that crawls in a zigzag manner from Matheran main market through proper broad gauge to Neral covering 21 kms. The leisurely two hour train journey takes you through dense forest & many stunning points worth a visit. It also passes through one short tunnel, interestingly named "One Kiss Tunnel".

f you feel like having a relaxing and relatively comfortable journey, book a seat in first class, where you'll get a padded seat in a cozy compartment. The train usually runs during October to June, and doesn't operate or has less frequency during monsoons. However, the timetable changes frequently so it's best to check it at an Indian Railways computerized reservation counter or irctc site. It is advisable to book the tickets in advance, as the train fills up very quickly. I must say, This was an amazing journey with loads of fun with family and friends. 

Matheran is really such an amazing place where nature is playing active role with you and where you can enjoy every breath with nature. Many couple spends there life precious time of honeymoon here in Matheran. Disconnected from the outside world, walk and make a stay in Matheran to get a totally different experience in itself. 

Read the next post to visit your favourite point to visit in Matheran, and some important notes while visiting Matheran.

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Lonavala Trip

Quote of the post: "The place to get, set and wet that covers lusk green carpet surrounded by shawl of clouds and flowing waterfalls alongwith mist." - Quote about Lonavala - Sachin Kumar Gupta
Lonavala - Jab bhi man ho chale aana. :)
Lonavla is a hill station in the Pune district. Around 64 km from Pune and 96 km from Mumbai. Both the Mumbai - Pune highway and Mumbai Pune express highway pass through Lonovala. Lonovala and Khandala are twin hill stations on the Sahyadri range, around 622m above the sea level and a popular holiday destinations during the monsoons.
This time my monsson express reached to Lonavala, This place is good round the clock of a year. But when the year clock moves to the month of July-August, it started being greener. and as the time goes on, It becomes the most amazaing place to enjoy and picnic with family, friend, and loved ones. Specially during the monsoon, people come here for the natural beauty, many waterfalls, lake, forts, and lusk green area all around.

Bushi Dam: A perfect place for picnic, zig-zag paths, and during the monsoon season, continuously flowing water. If you are expert, you can also swim across the lake. It is approx 5 KM from Lonavala railway station. You can enjoy the whole walk from station to Bushi dam being set & wet at vairous waterfalls along the way enjoying fresh-minded views. We were been to this place on Sunday, The *-wheelers were throughout the way like the bee-house (Madhumakhi chatta) Mumbaikers and Punites are crazy about this place, keeping the road jam packed during Sat and Sunday.

Lion Point: We reached to Lion point after coming back from Bushi Dam. I couldn't perform photographic sessions due to much fog. Though from here deep valley can be enjoyed during open sky. Sooner it started raining and hot snacks needed at this time to our toungue. This place is good to have snacks, Samosas, Khachodi, tea etc etc. After that we moved towards Lonavala lake, and have some good photograhs on our way.
Lonavala Lake: Lonavala Lake is surrounded by natural scenery, about 1.6 km from the town. The lake dries up during the winter months. The lake is also called as the monsoon lake. It is believed that it is the originating point of the river Indrayani.

Ryewood Park: Ryewood Park & Shivaji Udyan; This is an extensive garden situated in Lonavala. The garden covers a lot of ground and it is full of tall trees. There is an old Shiva temple in the park. The garden has plenty of place for children to play.

For me, This place holds one of my most memorable moments spent with my family (specially nearby Pune). After that we move towards Khandala, another nearby hill station.

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Jungle on Top - Matheran - Part2

Quote of the Post: "Matheran is just the perfect place to find peace away from the hustle-bustle lifestyle, and take a break to relax, enjoy the poetic nature all around." - Quote about Matheran - Sachin Kumar Gupta

No honking, just calm! calm! calm! Read the last post of ways to reach Matheran, and one of the best toy train journey not to be missed "Matheran Toy Train". This post is all about the lookup points to visit in Matheran, and some important notes while visiting Matheran as per my experiences to Matheran. Below album has more number of snaps taken at these points.

Points in Matheran [*Recommended Point] [Important sites to visit in Matheran]: As soon as you park your vehicle at Dasturi naka, and enter to Matheran, you will be welcomed by the army of horses around you. Riding as per choice of Black, Brown, White, Tall or Short horse and the muddy slopes of Matheran is amazing to experience. There are altogether 36 points, 2 lakes, 2 parks, 4 major worship places and a race-course to visit inside Matheran. 

There are a lots of lookout ''points'' that provide long walking tracks, spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Matheran has a reasonably dense forest cover, lush greenery, waterfalls and the lake full with water. Being a hill station it is pleasant almost throughout the year though the nights can get a bit chilly. All the points give a unique view experience and you can’t miss that. The following is a list of some major places of interest, I listed as per my experiences in Matheran. "Day 1 starts"

*Khandala Point: The point is very close to the Matheran Market Place, you have to step down some scrumbled stairs to reach the place. Adore the Garbut Point in front of it and at the right side of it, Khandala Hills, Bhivpuri Power House and Karjat town can be seen. 

*Alexander Point: During the Mansoon, the view of water fall will delight the hearts.  

Rambaug Point

Little Chowk Point

Chowk Point

*One tree Hill: On the top of hill there is one solitary Jambhul Tree that marks the spot. If you want to skip this point, you can directly traverse from Alexander to Charlotte lake.

Olympia Race Course

*Charlotte Lake: Lake is 1.5 kms away from the main market. Matheran receives water from this lake. Charlotte Lake has dam at one end and main Hindu holy temple (Pisarnath Temple) at the other. A spectacular waterfall overflows from the lake during and shortly after the monsoons. This is a popular picnic spot, it looks splendid in the monsoon, but dries up in the summer. We experienced lake crossing. 

*Lord's Point: It is just near the Charlotte lake, and must visit place. It is said "The journey wouldn't be complete till you visit this splendid point."

*Echo Point: which really does have an echo, Valley crossing activity is operated by experienced people, we enjoyed the adventure as well. Love birds used to express their feeling not by flower or down on the knees but they shout it out at top of their voice. 

*Honeymoon Point: There is 30 seconds adreline valley crossing (approx 900 feet, 1000 feet deep) activity started that leaves you to Louisa point. Feel free to scream loud at the point and hear the echo coming from distant places through the valleys. Simply awesome!!!

*Louisa Point: The place is essentially a plateau with views of the ruined forts Prabal and Vishalgarh. On the right side, one can see a shaped like a ’’Lion’s Head’’. 

*Sunset Point (Porcupine Point): It is about 5 kms. from main market. It is well known for the magnificent sight of Sunset from here at dusk. 'Prabalgad' fort can also be viewed from this point. Deep forest surrounds this place. 

Malet Spring: During whole year passers by and tourists can drink the cool water of this spring. 

Back to market and have dinner and chillax there. "Day 2 starts"

*Sunrise Point (Panorama Point): Almost 5.5 kms away from the market place. Early risers should head to Panorama Point to take in a spectacular sunrise. This point commands one of the widest views of the hill, both of Matheran and other side of it. While going to this place one meets with a wonderful alliance of sky with the horizon. 

Mount Berry: A splendid view of train coming up the hill and perfect aerial view of Neral Town can be seen from here. Mount berry is one of the highest points in Matheran with its splendid views.

*Heart point: On clear nights, This point offers a view of the lights of Mumbai at night! 

Monkey Point: It is about 3 kms from the Post Office and so named because there were monkeys abounding on that side formerly. 

The Marketplace: A very common sight, You can enjoy numbers of monkeys leaping from tree to tree or climbing the housetops. The market area is the bulk of the activities, where you will find good quality Shoes, Slippers, Sandals and other leather goods at good bargains here. You also get various flavors of Chikki, local honey, fudge's ice gola's and various drinks.

You can explore the points as per your longivity of stay in Matheran. If you still have some energy to trek, you can follow the train trek from Matheran station to Dasturi Naka while enjoying valley views by foot. While returning we all opted for horse riding from Matheran market point to Dasturi naka on the red-mud road. 

Some important notes while visiting Matheran: 

- Don't plan to come or cover the place in a day.  If you would like to see all of them then you may need to manage 2–3 days on your feet from your busy schedule.

- Please carry enough cash with you, as many place don't accept cash and there is only 1 ATM nearby railway station, that even sometime doesn't work. 

- Carry flashlight as it becomes dark early near the forest areas.

- Don't carry eatable open, else monkeys wouldn't leave you. As soon as you enter, You will get to know.

- Don't book hotels in advance if you are not sure, as sometime that can be at a unwanted remote location away from market area.

- The area is subject to frequent power outages, so try to have a stay where you get a generator to supply backup power.

- If you want to travel with toy train, it is advisable to book the tickets in advance, as the train fills up very quickly. 

- I suggest you to take horse ride of only one hour to experience horse ride, rest of sight seeing will be easily manage by your foot only that gives a unique view experience. 

- Carry proper trek shoes with thick soles as Matheran is quite dusty and there is red soil everywhere. 

- Carry extra pair of clothes, as it rains heavily during monsoons. 

- You can trek right down from Matheran station to Dasturi naka then further to Neral station, either following the ghat roads or the toy train tracks. The best would be to combine both the routes for the spectacular views. This trek will take around 3 hour. 

- Avoid carrying too much baggage with you, but carry ample amount of water with you.

Matheran is really such an amazing place where nature is playing active role with you and where you can enjoy every breath with nature. Many couple spends there life precious time of honeymoon here in Matheran. Disconnected from the outside world, walk and make a stay in Matheran to get a totally different experience in itself...  

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Pune - Temghar Dam - Lavasa

First of all a very Happy I-Day (Independence day) to all my readers and loved ones.

It was the long weekend, and we decided to go to Lavasa, India's first planned hill station. The city is still yet to complete. This hill city has been controversial for many reasons as: danger to environment, quarrying, procurement of land etc. Not going into these details, lets start our trip to Lavasa.

We decided to go by car. Abhishek, Ajay, Pardeep, Raunak, Tarachand were finally in, Off-cource including me. Thanks to Raunak who managed to get all of us in his car. Enjoying the scenic beauty and full time rain was a pleasure during monsoon season. We choose the path from Magarpatta City - Chandni Chowk - Pirangut - Paud Road - Temghar Lavasa Road - Temghar Dam - Lavasa. We stopped at various points shortly to enjoy the rain, and for some time at Temghar dam. Temghar dam is in the valley of Sahyadri hills near Pune, This was almost full of monsoon water.

It started raining heavily as we entered the gates of Lavasa. Throughout the trip, It keep on raining, and various waterfalls can be enjoyed. The street name is itself the waterfall st. People were enjoying these water streams stopping their vehicles. We reached at Ekaant lodge, at the top of hill. From the parking place, the panoramic view of the lake and the Lavasa cityscape is awesome and adorable. As per the plans, four-five towns will be built on seven hills. So far, Dasve is one of them, and the other town is Mugaon.

In Lavasa, people can enjoy various water-sports as well, But at this high mansoon season these were closed. There are some adventure sports with X-thrill (sign-boards can be seen at the road-sides) and activities like rock climbing, paint ball, rappelling, camping, and trekking to the nature trails can be done at different times throughout the year.

We had our lunch just near the bridge crossing points. We managed to get standing food at this place, where we ate like dogs. [everyone getting too much hungry] From this point, people can enjoy train-shaped vehicle drive to Lavasa city for 20 mins, cost INR 50. After that we drive down the city, crossed the lovely bridge, stopped at a pictsquare place for some colorful designing Villas and the waterfront buildings.

During our trip, we enjoyed the tea and the sweet-corn at the road-side. Lavasa could be the good option for one day trip from Pune or Mumbai. If you have dream of living in Lavasa hill city villa, or need any more info, you can visit: lavasa.com

Other one day trip from Pune:

Mahabaleshwar Trip

An eve at Mulshi Lake

Sinhgad - The Lion Fort

Kashid and Murud Janjira Fort

Purander Fort

Lonavala Trip

Khandala Trip

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Mumbai Magic - "A Conglomeration of Seven Islands"

Quote of the Post: "The place where every place is renowned and famous landmark for one or the other reason." - Quote about 'Mumbai (Bombay)' - Sachin Kumar Gupta

Welcome to the Gateway of India, Hollywood of India, most electrical city of India - Mumbai, the city that never sleeps. Searching for the best places to visit in Mumbai or a day experience in Mumbai. Here you have my experience with family. Starting the journey from CST railway station, to the most visited places like religious Siddhivinayak temple, Haji Ali Dargah, Mahalaxmi temple. Then going to "Hanging Gardens" on Malabar Hill, following amazing Ganesh visarjan at Girgaon Chowpatty and Marine Drive sunset point kept our mouth open. At the end of the day we spend some time near the Taj hotel and splendid Gateway of India, the most popular destination in Mumbai. 

The capital city of India, Mumbai, where all were set to bid farewell to its favorite god Lord Ganesha idols on Saturday, I just visited with family. We reach Mumbai CST railway station, and booked the cab for the whole day. The below road-map was covered by the expert drivers in Mumbai, who helped us covering major landmarks in a day.

Mumbai Visit Map

Siddhivinayak Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is one of the most popular temples of Mumbai city. It is located in Dadar and you can easily get a taxi to go to the temple from the Dadar railway station. No photography is allowed inside the temple premises. 

We paused for sometime at Bollywood's favorite actor's home - Mannat (SRK's home). Cab driver stopped at this place for a while, and as per the tendency of the place people slow down their vehicle here.

Bandra-Worli sea-link bridge which links Mumbai’s suburbs to South Mumbai. It’s a very prestigious bridge which was opened in 2009.

Haji Ali: In the waters of the Worli bay, The Haji Ali Dargah, located in a small island in the big island city of Mumbai is the most popular tourist destination and more importantly a pilgrim site for people from all over the world. 15 minutes of small walkway, which connects the sandy shore to the holy shrine. The rocks exposed during low tide at the rare end of the mosque are a favourable spot to catch some cool sea breeze. In spite of being a Muslim shrine, people of all beliefs, religions and coming from all strata of society are found here. If you are lucky enough, you will be able to see and hear the kawali sunged by the professionals. I hear that during my last visit. It is the faith of these people that bring them here. Some new construction also going on at this place. 

Mahalakshmi Temple: This temple located on Bhulabhai Desai Road is a very famous temple of Goddess Mahalakshmi. The idols of Goddesses Mahakali and Mahasaraswati are also enshrined at this temple. You have to walk 5 mins off the road to reach this holy place. 

I will call it "The Heaven for Dating Couples". The "Hanging Gardens" on Malabar Hill offers stunning vistas of the Marine Drive. Another interesting feature comprises of its several hedges that have been fashioned into different shapes of animals. From the park one can have the best possible views of the Marine drive and the Chowpatty beach.

Chowpatty Beach is known not only as a beach for Mumbai but it is heart of the city. Though the beach is not for sunbathing or swimming, But It is always pleasure to watch sun-rise or sun-set. There are delicious snacks available at the various food stalls on the beach. You can enjoy having some delicious Chaats, Bhel Puri or Pav Bhaji, the choice is ultimately yours! Some people may remember the bollywood song "Chowpatty Jayenge Bhel Puri Khayenge". 

Marine Drive, a popular promenade of the city, is also referred to as the Queen’s Necklace. Also, Marine Drive is home to many celebrities, mostly bollywood stars. The place has become so popular among the local as well as the international travelers that people love visiting this place again and again. We enjoyed the road full of Ganpati Visargan, and walk across the sea during wonderful sunset.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: India's most beautiful railway station is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with stained-glass windows, towering spires, domed arches and buttresses and pillars with animal images carved into them.

Gateway of India: The symbol of Tourism in Mumbai. This famous landmark attracts all of us like a magnet. At the backside, There are steps in this monument which will lead you to the sea. Many people used to travel to Elephanta Caves from this point and view the skyline of the city from the sea. Another landmark Taj Mahal hotel is situated across the road from the Gateway of India which is very beautiful.

It was an superb but tiring day with Meenal, Saloni, Manish, Anmol, and other family members. Some places still to visit in my list are: Elephanta Caves, Essel World, Water Kingdom. Keep enjoying My Mumbai Diary ...

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Khandala - Meet Your Forefathers

The place named in famous Bollywood song, "Aati Kya Khandala". It is really the place to ask someone special :) "Wanna come Khandala with me (aati kya khandala)".

There are places in the world, you can't pen their beauty, this is one of those places. To really enjoy the place, you have to be here specially during monsoon. The proof are the images below.

It is the perfect holiday destination and famous for honeymoon and romantic vacations in India. The place can be easily accessed from Pune or Mumbai through Mumbai-Pune expressway. During the monsoon season, The place wears lusk green carget surrouded by clouds alongwith eye-loving views. This hill station fulfills the reqiurements of all kinds of tourists having good hotels.

It was our family trip from out of the hustle and bustle of Pune city. This area we covered after our Lonavala visit. Here is the best place to adore the natural glory, and can meet and feed your forefathers, the point named as Monkey point. The entry fee of this garden is just 5 INR.

It was the best time, and the nature was playing hide and seek game. So the other side of the hill was completely invisible sometime, hiding all its waterfall and lusk green beauty. Other than this there are many nearby treks for trekkers. You can also enjoy during sunrise and sunset times. You can see many people watching the glory of the nature, from this hill, over looking this Mumbai-Pune expressway.

What to bring from Khandala:

You can't carry nature with you. But you can capture those moment. So from Khandala, you can have a different varieties of coconut, peanut, til, chikki, tasty powder etc. Nearby place, Lonavala is famous for Chikki. Beware of any artificial colors and flavours while purchasing it. You can always taste it before purchasing.

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Grand Canyon Of India - Mahabaleshwar

Quote of the Post: "Should I call this a spiritual or a lover's place." - Quote about Mahabaleshwar - Sachin Kumar Gupta

Hello and welcome to the Green Grand Canyon of India, Mahabaleshwar. It is already listed to the evergreen forests of the world. It is the hill station in Satara district (Maharashtra) about 120 KM away from Pune and 280 KM away from Mumbai. Mahabaleshwar is a vast plateau measuring 150 KM2 bound by valleys on all sides.

It is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy honey and strawberries especially during the summer. Besides the plenty of restraint paths, boating, horse riding, and golf facilities, fishing spots, trekking trails and pretty waterfalls, the town is full of lookout points. Although there are close to 25 'Points' in Mahabaleshwar, Some points to worth visiting in Mahabaleshwar are Bombay Point, Elphinstone Point, Mahabaleshwar Club, Kate's Point, Wilson's Point, Sunset Point, Arthur's Seat etc. We covered some of the must see points during our 1 day trip to Mahabaleshwar. Not to mention, but don't forget to bring your camera while travelling Mahabaleshwar.

Parsi Point: Parsi Point is a renowned picnic spot. This scenic point is situated on the way to Mahabaleshwar, and overlooks the lush green Krishna valley and the blue shiny waters of the Dhom Dam.

There is a parking area from where you have to trek a little to get Lodwick and Elephant Head Points.
Lodwick Point: This place has a great views and You can enjoy plenty of waterfalls flowing. There is a monument in memory of the general, erected by his son.

Elephant Head Point: The walk from Lodwick point to Elephant head is tranquil and serene, and the nature makes it overwhelming. The cliffs which overhang resemble an elephant’s head and trunk. It is another observation point to deep valley view. There were also plenty of pancies of different colors at the edges of the deep valleys.

Arthur's Seat: It is the most famous point and full of walkers and trekkers. You don't wanna leave this place. To really enjoy this place, You should enjoy the sun-light over the mountains coming out of clouds. You can enjoy the sweet corn here. Nearby points are Window Point (Just below Arthur's point), Tiger's Spring, echo point.

Kate's Point: This point gives you the freshness and warmth of nature having Krishna valley in back with lush green mountains at both sides. It is a good place to relax and rejuvenate as well.

Needle Hole Point: The view from here is simply mesmerizing. This is opposite of Kate's Point and can be reached through the trail at the other side of the road. A beautiful waterfall can be enjoyed at this place. The place is actually of the lookout point of Kate's Point. The place is also known as Elphinstone Point.

While returning back to Pune, We have a quick look to Mazaana Chocolate factory and had the tea break as well. Thanks to Shaju, Anjali, Atul, Karishma, and Suhas to make this trip more enjoyable.

Other Nearby Hill Stations Visit: Khandala Lonavala

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