Matheran – A very cool hill station nearby Mumbai. You have to get down at Neral ( Central Railway ) which take 1.45 Hr from CST or 1.20 Hr from Dadar.
This Hill station is developed in British rule. If you want to spend your week end with nature but also not very far from the your house, then Matheran will be the best option for you. If you are going with your friend circle ( 18-30 years age group ), it is better to start at night by walking. You will get a different experience while traveling. If you are going with your family, then mini train service is the better experience for you. Otherwise taxi is another option for you.It will take 3 to 3.5 hrs to reach at the Matheran gate by walking, 1.5 to 2 hrs by train, 45 min to 1 hr for taxi.
At the gate you have to take entry pass for the Matheran. At this point your journey get start. Not a single vehicle, you can see there. This area is totally pollution free and you will enjoy each and every moment there.
On the top of the matheran , there are many points in those sun set point, lake point and eco point are very famous. But these points are far away from each other. Horse riding is the best option to see more points in a day. For stay more than two days is also no problem over here. You will find many lodges developed by MTDC or by private players. There are many villagers who will provide you less expensive accommodation with food and your other need :-)
Also you can find some wild life like monkeys, snakes, birds over there
Some tips :
Take some woolen cloths.
Wear good shoes.
Keep always some extra amount with you.