Surat to Matheran Road Trip: Best Self-Drive Weekend Getaway with Bharat Car

If you are looking for a refreshing weekend break away from the city rush, a self-drive trip from Surat to Matheran is the ideal escape. Nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Matheran is India’s smallest hill station, known for its serene atmosphere, colonial charm, and breathtaking viewpoints.

The drive from Surat to Matheran offers a scenic route filled with greenery, winding ghats, and glimpses of the countryside. With Bharat Car Rental, your journey becomes smooth, flexible, and memorable. You can explore at your own pace, stop for photos, and enjoy one of the best road trips from Surat.

Why Visit Matheran for a Weekend Getaway

Matheran, meaning “forest on the forehead,” is a picturesque hill station located around 800 meters above sea level in Maharashtra’s Raigad district. What makes Matheran unique is that it is a vehicle-free hill station—no cars are allowed within its boundaries. This makes it peaceful, pollution-free, and relaxing.

Visitors explore Matheran on foot, horseback, or by hand-pulled rickshaws, making it a truly unique experience. The combination of lush greenery, clean air, and colonial architecture makes it one of the most sought-after weekend destinations near Surat and Mumbai.

Surat to Matheran Distance and Driving Route

The distance from Surat to Matheran is about 280 kilometres, and the drive takes six to seven hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route is scenic and well-maintained, perfect for those who love long drives.

Best Route (via NH48):
Surat → Navsari → Valsad → Vapi → Manor → Khopoli → Neral → Dasturi Point (Matheran)

You can park your Bharat Car at Dasturi Point, the official entry to Matheran. From there, you can walk or hire a horse or hand-pulled rickshaw to reach the main market area.

Travel Tip: Start early from Surat to avoid traffic and reach before noon. The morning drive offers cooler temperatures and stunning sunrise views.

Why Choose Bharat Car for Your Self-Drive Trip

A self-drive car from Bharat Car Rental Surat lets you travel exactly the way you want. There’s no need to depend on drivers or fixed schedules. Just pack your bags, pick your car, and start your journey.

Benefits of Bharat Car Rental:

  • Wide range of cars – from hatchbacks to SUVs

  • Well-maintained vehicles for safety and comfort

  • Affordable rates with transparent pricing

  • 24/7 roadside assistance for peace of mind

  • Flexible pickup and drop-off options

With Bharat Car, your road trip from Surat to Matheran becomes a journey filled with comfort, flexibility, and adventure.

The Scenic Beauty Along the Route

The Surat to Matheran drive is a delight for nature lovers. As you leave the city, the landscape changes from urban roads to green fields and misty hills.

Scenic stops along the route include:

  • Valsad and Vapi: Green countryside and coastal charm

  • Manor and Khopoli: Ideal for tea or snack breaks

  • Neral Ghat Road: Winding hill route with breathtaking views

During the monsoon and early winter, the route becomes even more beautiful with waterfalls and clouds over the ghats.

Best Time to Visit Matheran

The best time to plan your Surat to Matheran road trip is between October and May. The weather remains pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.

  • Winter (Oct–Feb): Cool and ideal for outdoor walks

  • Summer (Mar–May): Warm but comfortable

  • Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Green and misty, but roads can be slippery

Avoid heavy monsoon months if you prefer safer driving conditions. However, for greenery lovers, monsoon drives are magical.

Top Attractions in Matheran

Once you reach Matheran, explore several viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Sahyadri hills.

Must-visit attractions:

  • Panorama Point: Famous for sunrise and sunset views

  • Echo Point: Known for its natural echo and scenic backdrop

  • Louisa Point: Overlooks Prabal Fort and lush valleys

  • Charlotte Lake: Calm and surrounded by dense forests

  • Alexander Point: Great for photography and short walks

  • One Tree Hill Point: Popular for trekking and views

Where to Stay in Matheran

Matheran offers many stay options, from heritage resorts to budget hotels.

Recommended stays:

  • The Verandah in the Forest – Colonial-style heritage bungalow

  • Horseland Hotel and Mountain Spa – Ideal for families and couples

  • Usha Ascot Resort – Modern comfort with a scenic location

Book your stay in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, as Matheran attracts travellers from Mumbai, Pune, and Surat.

What to Eat in Matheran

Matheran’s local food is simple yet flavorful. You’ll find a mix of Maharashtrian, Gujarati, and Parsi dishes.

Popular local foods:

  • Vada Pav and Misal Pav at local eateries

  • Chikki – a sweet made of jaggery and nuts

  • Maggi, Puri Bhaji, and Corn Pakoda as hill-station snacks

  • Hot tea and lemonade at market-side cafes

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

  • Start early from Surat to avoid traffic

  • Carry water, snacks, and basic first aid

  • Fill your fuel tank in Surat or Vapi

  • Park your car safely at Dasturi Point

  • Book toy train tickets from Neral in advance

  • Avoid plastic and litter; Matheran is an eco-sensitive area

Why a Self-Drive Trip Is the Best Way to Explore

A self-drive trip from Surat to Matheran gives you complete freedom. You can decide when to stop, where to eat, and how long to stay.

Unlike group tours, a self-drive journey allows spontaneous detours, quick photo breaks, and exploration of hidden gems. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or with family, the drive through the Western Ghats is an unforgettable experience.