Perched above the lush Sahyadri hills, Garbett Plateau is one of Matheran’s most breathtaking yet lesser-known spots. Located about 8 kilometers from Matheran town and 90 kilometers from Mumbai, this vast grass-covered plateau offers stunning panoramic views of green valleys, waterfalls, and distant peaks fading into the mist.
Named after Hugh Garbett, a British official who discovered it during colonial times, this scenic expanse feels like a world apart, untouched, silent, and infinitely beautiful. The trek to Garbett Plateau takes you through charming villages, sparkling streams, and meadows that bloom with wildflowers during monsoon. It’s not just a trail, it’s a slow unfolding of nature’s poetry, from early morning fog to golden sunset skies.
For those who crave solitude and raw natural beauty, Garbett Plateau is Matheran’s hidden paradise waiting to be explored.
How to Reach :
By Air: The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (90 km). From there, travelers can take a local train or private cab to reach the base village.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Bhivpuri Road (5 km from the base village). Local trains from Mumbai CST or Karjat stop here regularly. From Bhivpuri, trekkers can start their journey to Diksal village, the starting point of the Garbett Plateau trek.
By Road: Matheran is well connected by road from Mumbai, Pune, and Thane. You can drive up to Dasturi Naka (the last motorable point) and then take a short hike or toy train to Matheran town. From there, Garbett Plateau is about an hour’s walk.
Best Time to Visit :
The best time to visit Garbett Plateau is between June and February.
– Monsoon (June to September): The entire plateau comes alive with waterfalls, streams, and a green carpet of grass. Misty weather adds a magical charm to the trek.
– Winter (October to February): Cool and dry climate, ideal for trekking and camping under the stars.
– Summer (March to May): The landscape turns golden, offering clear panoramic views but warmer conditions.
– Avoid heavy rains or foggy days if you’re new to trekking, as trails can get slippery.
Popular Attractions Nearby :
– Matheran (8 km): A charming hill station known for its colonial charm, viewpoints, and toy train rides.
– Diksal Village (Base Point): The starting point for the Garbett trek, surrounded by paddy fields and small waterfalls.
– Charlotte Lake (7 km): A peaceful water body near Matheran, perfect for a quiet break.
– One Tree Hill Point (9 km): Another scenic viewpoint offering dramatic vistas of the Western Ghats.
– Echo Point & Louisa Point: Famous for panoramic valley views and the echoing sounds that travel through the hills.
Travel Tips :
– Start your trek early in the morning, ideally before sunrise, to enjoy the best views and pleasant weather.
– Carry sufficient water, light snacks, and rain gear during monsoon months.
– Wear good trekking shoes — the trail can get muddy and slippery.
– Mobile connectivity is limited in some areas, so plan offline maps in advance.
– If you’re not trekking, hire a local guide or join a group trek from Bhivpuri for safety and navigation.
– Avoid littering — Garbett Plateau’s pristine beauty depends on conscious travelers.
