Around Matheran

There are 8 Buddhist caves of the Hinayana Buddhist tradition which is a one hour trek from the Kondane village near Karjat. The Kondana caves enclose sculptures, vihara and stupas of ancient Buddhist architecture. Although there was an earth quake in the early 1900s many stupas, the front entrance and the floor of the caves were damaged. But what remains intact is the beautiful Chaitya that welcomes you to the rock cut caves that were created around 200 BC.

Clearly seen from the 'panorama point' in Matheran Peb fort or Vikatgad is a medium difficulty trek with a patch where your rock climbing skills also would be tested. The peb fort is a trek away from the Neral railway station. Atop the fort is a rock cut cistern and two caves and remains of a few old buildings. There is a small ashram of Swami Samarth, a memorial with holy carvings and a flag post atop the fort.

Karjat is a picturesque village about 25 Kms from Matheran is also the main railway station near Matheran. Located on the banks of the River Ulhas, Karjat is a a solemn weekend destination with the rushing river and verdant fields surrounded by low green-topped hills. Kajrat is very popular destination for trekking. While at the Karjat railway station do not miss out on a bite of the famous Diwadkar’s 'vada pao'!!