Matheran – Asia’s only vehicle free village

Matheran a popular tourist destination in Maharashtra is known for its scenic beauty and cool weather. This hill station in Raigad district is one of the most popular places not only in Maharashtra but also in the entire country. It is a go to destination for nature lovers. But there is one more reason this hill station has come to limelight for its uniqueness of being an only automobile-free hill station in Asia. It is the only place in Asia where vehicles are not allowed, making it a unique village due to its automobile-free policy.

Pleasant weather, scenic views, earth roads, tall trees, greenery all around, toy drains, and most importantly, pollution-free weather is what Matheran known for. Keeping the lush green nature, trees, surroundings, and natural habitat of Matheran free from pollution is very important, and tourists also have to strictly follow these rules while visiting Matheran.

Before Matheran limit begins, vehicles have to stop at a point at the foothills. Once you enter the village its only you have to roam vehicle free. One can feel the beauty of this hill station by walking around it. If one is not comfortable walking, there is the option of horse riding. Locals, horse riders have the option of going around the entire Matheran by horse riding, Isn’t it an unique idea?

There are two ways to reach Matheran one by toy train and other by tourist taxi. Tourist taxi goes only till Dasturi Naka which is the last stop for vehicles. Now no one can take a vehicle to Matheran. Tourists have to park their two-wheelers or four-wheelers at this checkpoint. After that, tourists can enjoy this scenic hill station on foot or on horse ride.

Since beginning, automobiles have been banned at this scenic tourist destination, thereby helping to protect the environment of the region. In order to protect ecological sites, it is necessary to have restrictions on industry, mining, and vehicular movement which helps protect the environment and nature here. The concept of making Matheran automobile-free is important for the nature here. There are no metal roads anywhere in Matheran, the entire Matheran has red soil and there are roads made of red soil.

If you want to take a break from the densly polluted cities and want to spend some time amidst scenic views and greenery all around and most importantly pollution-free weather Matheran is a must visit to have that vehicle free experience. Thats where you don’t lose but find yourself.