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Top 10 best Hotels and restaurants in Matheran [Updated-2026]

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March 19, 2026

Top 10 best Hotels and restaurants in Matheran [Updated-2026]

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Top 10 Best Hotels and Restaurants in Matheran: A Guide to Heritage Stays and Timeless Flavors

Discover the ultimate guide to the top 10 hotels and restaurants in Matheran. From century-old heritage bungalows with swimming pools to legendary biryani and serene garden cafes, explore the best of Asia’s first car-free hill station.

Perched atop the Western Ghats at an altitude of about 800 meters, Matheran is not just another hill station—it is a living, breathing heritage destination. Discovered in 1850 by Hugh Poyntz Malet, the then Collector of Thane, this quaint getaway holds the distinguished title of being Asia’s first (and only) car-free hill station . The moment you arrive at Dasturi Point and leave your vehicle behind, the air changes. The only sounds are the rustling of leaves, the chatter of fellow travelers, and the distant whistle of the iconic toy train.

Matheran is a place where time slows down. The “Red Road” guides you through a landscape dotted with colonial-era bungalows, breathtaking sunset points, and dense forests. The hospitality here mirrors this timeless charm. You can sleep in a bungalow with period furniture, dine in a restaurant that has served biryani since 1984, or enjoy a crispy dosa in a garden setting with a calligraphy artist capturing your name.

Here is our curated list of the Top 10 Best Hotels and Restaurants in Matheran, blending heritage luxury with authentic culinary experiences.

Part 1: The Best Hotels (Where History Meets Tranquility)

1. Dune Barr House – Verandah in the Forest: A Boutique Gem

Topping our list is the enchanting Dune Barr House – Verandah in the Forest. With a stunning rating of 9.4/10 from 42 reviews on Trip.com, this property offers a truly “green” and unique experience .

Why it made the list:
Described as a “historically important location in Matheran,” the accommodation itself is “full of character” . Guests rave about the superb food, the quiet and relaxing atmosphere, and the welcoming hosts Ratheesh and his partner . Because of its size and layout, it never feels busy, offering an intimate retreat. One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “This is undoubtedly the place to stay in Matheran if you can get a room – would suggest booking early” . It is conveniently located just 0.17 km from Charlotte Lake .

Perfect For: Couples seeking romance, solo travelers, and those who love boutique properties with character.
Key Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Restaurant, Peaceful location.
Location: Near Charlotte Lake, Matheran .

2. Radha Cottage: The Food Lover’s Haven

Radha Cottage has achieved near-mythical status, scoring a phenomenal 9.7/10 rating from guests on both Trip.com and Booking.com aggregators . This lovely retreat is located at the quieter end of the road, offering peace and tranquility.

Why it made the list:
While the colonial-era furniture and serene location are major draws, the food is the real star. One guest who spent six weeks traveling across India declared the food here “the best I’ve had in 6 weeks of traveling in India” . It is a simple place, but it delivers an unforgettable experience. Be prepared for a bit of a walk (it’s about an hour from the toy train station), but the journey is well worth it . It is located just 0.33 km from Rambaug Point .

Perfect For: Foodies, peace seekers, and travelers wanting an authentic, rustic experience.
Key Amenities: Massage room, Parking, Public baths, Period furniture .
Location: Near Rambaug Point, Matheran .

3. The Byke Heritage Resort – Matheran: A Slice of History

The Byke Heritage Resort – Matheran is a magnificent property that stands as a testament to colonial-era luxury. With a “Very Good” rating of 7.9/10 from 41 reviews on Trip.com, it is a popular choice for those seeking heritage charm .

Why it made the list:
Guests appreciate the “good location” and the sprawling property . The resort features an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant, making it ideal for families and couples alike . While it is a bit of a walk from the railway station (about 1.3 km), hand rickshaws are available to help with luggage . It offers a blend of modern amenities within a pristine heritage structure.

Perfect For: History buffs, luxury seekers, and families.
Key Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool, Spa, Restaurant, Bar, 7-acre property .
Location: M.G. Road, Matheran .

4. Horseland Hotel and Mountain Spa: Great Value with a View

For travelers seeking a blend of comfort and value, Horseland Hotel and Mountain Spa is a fantastic option. With rooms ranging from $23 to $121, it caters to various budgets while maintaining a solid 9.2/10 rating from 41 happy guests .

Why it made the list:
Guests specifically mention enjoying the “very comfortable room, in a quiet and relaxing spot of Matheran” and the “delicious food” . The staff is described as “very friendly and serviceable,” with one guest even extending their stay by two nights . Its proximity to Jama Masjid (just 0.2 km away) also places it conveniently near the market area .

Perfect For: Families, mid-range budget travelers, and those seeking relaxation.
Key Amenities: Outdoor pool, Spa, Kids’ club, Restaurant .
Location: Near Jama Masjid, Matheran .

5. Westend Hotel: The Consistent Favorite

Westend Hotel is one of the most popular and consistently highly-rated hotels in Matheran, ranking #3 out of 27 hotels on Booking.com based on guest reviews .

Why it made the list:
With an 8.3 rating on Trip.com from 127 reviews, guests love the “friendly staff, ready to help nature,” and the “very hygienic and tasty breakfast with so many options” . The rooms are spacious (almost 300+ sq ft) with balconies, and the location is just a 7-8 minute walk from Matheran Railway Station . It strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and comfort.

Perfect For: Families, couples, and first-time visitors to Matheran.
Key Amenities: Outdoor pool, Spa, Playground, Restaurant .
Location: Near Matheran Railway Station .

6. Janani Niwas Matheran: Ultra-Budget and Central

If you are a backpacker or a budget-conscious traveler, Janani Niwas is a gem. With a “Great” 9.2/10 rating and prices starting as low as $18 per night, it proves that affordable stays in Matheran don’t mean compromising on quality .

Why it made the list:
This cottage offers the basics done right: clean rooms with Smart televisions, complimentary wired and wireless internet, and daily housekeeping . It is situated just 0.07 km from Myra Point, offering incredible access to viewpoints without the premium price tag .

Perfect For: Backpackers, solo travelers, and small groups.
Key Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Smart TVs, Daily housekeeping .
Location: Near Myra Point, Matheran .

7. Hotel Kumar Plaza: Modern Comforts

Hotel Kumar Plaza is another highly-rated option, scoring an impressive 9.6/10 from 40 reviews on Trip.com . Located in Karjat, it offers easy access to Matheran’s attractions.

Why it made the list:
Guests appreciate the modern amenities, including an outdoor pool, complimentary wireless internet, and cable programming in rooms . Private bathrooms feature rainfall showerheads, adding a touch of luxury. The on-site restaurant and coffee shop/cafe provide convenient dining options .

Perfect For: Travelers seeking modern amenities and comfortable stays.
Key Amenities: Outdoor pool, Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi, Rainfall showerheads .
Location: Karjat (convenient for Matheran access).

8. Gujarat Bhavan Hotel: Family-Friendly Fun

Gujarat Bhavan Hotel is a top-rated property with an “Amazing” 9.4/10 rating from 40 reviews . It places guests in the heart of Karjat, convenient to Sunset Point.

Why it made the list:
This family-friendly hotel offers recreational amenities including an outdoor pool and a waterslide—perfect for children . The restaurant and room service (during limited hours) ensure guests have dining options without leaving the property. Rooms feature private balconies or patios, adding to the appeal .

Perfect For: Families with children, leisure travelers.
Key Amenities: Outdoor pool, Waterslide, Restaurant, Private balconies .
Location: Karjat (near Sunset Point).

9. Adamo the Village: Perfect for Groups

Adamo the Village has garnered a loyal following, with guests praising its “amazing experience” and “well-maintained property” . With a 7.7/10 rating from 120 reviews, it’s a solid choice for groups and families .

Why it made the list:
One recent guest raved: “Pure vegetarian food, and surprisingly, every dish was delicious and well-prepared. A good variety in the menu, catering to different taste preferences” . The resort is centrally located, well-maintained, and more beautiful than it looks in pictures. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, offering a perfect blend of luxury and nature .

Perfect For: Groups, families, and vegetarian food lovers.
Key Amenities: Pool, Spa, Sauna, Pure vegetarian restaurant .
Location: Centrally located in Matheran .

10. The Byke Brightland Resort – Matheran: Relaxing Getaway

Rounding out our hotel list is The Byke Brightland Resort – Matheran, a property designed for guests to “unwind after a day of travel” . All rooms are non-smoking, ensuring a fresh environment.

Why it made the list:
As part of the Byke chain, this resort maintains good standards of hospitality and comfort. While specific guest reviews are limited in the search results, its inclusion in Trip.com‘s top listings indicates its popularity among travelers seeking a relaxing stay .

Perfect For: Travelers seeking a relaxing, hassle-free stay.
Key Amenities: Non-smoking rooms, Comfortable accommodations.
Location: Matheran.

Part 2: The Best Restaurants (Where to Feast in the Mist)

11. Garden View Restaurant: Pure Veg Paradise

Garden View Restaurant is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, offering an array of Chinese, Punjabi, and other Indian dishes . With a 4.3 rating from over 264 reviews, this place is a crowd-pleaser .

Why it made the list:
Guests rave about the “flavorful masterpiece” that is Alu Matar, the crispy Sada Dosa, and the surprisingly good Pav Bhaji . The portions are generous, the service is prompt (though can be slow during rush hours), and the pricing is on the lower side (₹200–800 per person), offering incredible value for money . As a bonus, they occasionally feature a calligraphy artist who writes guests’ names—a unique souvenir .

Must Try: Alu Matar, Pav Bhaji, Manchow Soup, Cheese Dosa, Paneer Angara .
Perfect For: Families, vegetarians, and those seeking a calm garden setting.
Location: Kapadia market, near N’lord’s garden, Matheran .

12. Shabbir Bhai Biryaniwala | Mughlai, Tandoori & Chinese: The Legendary Taste

Operating since 1984, Shabbir Bhai Biryaniwala is more than a restaurant; it is an institution . If you ask anyone in Matheran where to find the best non-vegetarian food, they will point you toward the alley near Jama Masjid.

Why it made the list:
This place is famous for its authentic, aromatic biryani. The owner, Shabbir Bhai himself, is described as a “genuinely kind-hearted person who enjoys serving people” . It has a simple, dhaba-like vibe with basic seating, but the flavors are rich and complex. One loyal customer remarked, “I have been eating at this place since childhood… the taste hasn’t changed” . The biryani is reasonably priced (around ₹130-170) and offers good value .

Must Try: Chicken Biryani, Mughlai dishes, Kebabs .
Perfect For: Non-vegetarians, biryani connoisseurs, and those seeking authentic local flavors.
Location: Kasturba Rd, near Jama Masjid, Matheran .

13. Ganesh Refreshment: A Hidden Culinary Gem

Ganesh Refreshment is a delightful little nook run by Sneha and Santoshji, a couple who take care to understand their guests’ requirements and prepare “delicious, 5-star quality Parsi, Continental and Goan cuisine” .

Why it made the list:
This spot is perfect for those who appreciate home-cooked meals in a cozy environment. The food amounts are generous—”three adults can comfortably eat one dish”—and the quality of meats is excellent . Dishes like Sheperd’s Pie, Mutton Dhansak, and Parsi scramble (Akuri) receive high praise. The ambiance is wonderful, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet, personalized dining experience .

Must Try: Sheperd’s Pie, Mutton Dhansak, Salli Boti Mutton, Parsi Akuri .
Perfect For: Couples, families, and those seeking home-style Parsi and Continental cuisine.
Location: End of MG Road, Matheran .

14. Kokan Katta: Authentic Coastal Flavors

Kokan Katta brings the authentic taste of coastal Maharashtra to the hills of Matheran . It’s a must-visit for those craving the spicy, flavorful cuisine of the Konkan region.

Why it made the list:
While specific reviews are limited in the search results, its mention alongside top restaurants like Garden View and Shabbir Bhai indicates its popularity . The restaurant specializes in Malvani and Goan dishes, offering a delightful change from the standard North Indian fare found elsewhere in Matheran.

Must Try: Malvani fish curry, Sol Kadhi, Bombil fry.
Perfect For: Seafood lovers and those wanting to explore coastal Maharashtrian cuisine.
Location: Matheran market area.

15. Matheran MG Road Market: Street Food Delights

While not a single restaurant, the Matheran MG Road Market deserves a mention for its vibrant street food scene . This is where you can find local snacks and quick bites to fuel your explorations.

Why it made the list:
The market offers a variety of options, from hot corn on the cob and piping hot bhutta to cutting chai and pakoras that taste extra good in the cool weather . It’s the perfect place to grab a quick bite between visiting viewpoints or shopping for local handicrafts.

Must Try: Bhutta (roasted corn), Pakoras, Cutting Chai.
Perfect For: Quick bites, snack lovers, and those wanting to experience local market vibes.
Location: MG Road, Matheran .

Bonus Tip: Pure Vegetarian Options

For travelers seeking pure vegetarian dining, Matheran offers excellent options beyond Garden View. Adamo the Village’s restaurant serves “delicious and well-prepared” pure vegetarian food with good variety . The Byke Heritage Resort also offers a pure vegetarian fine dining experience within a heritage setting .

Practical Tips for Your Matheran Trip

Getting There: Matheran is car-free. Park at Dasturi Naka and either walk, take a hand-pulled rickshaw, or ride the toy train from Aman Lodge into the town center . The toy train runs infrequently, so check the schedule in advance .
Best Time to Visit: October to May offers pleasant weather. Monsoon (June-September) transforms the hill station into a lush green paradise but trails can be slippery .
What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothes (especially for evenings), raincoat if visiting during monsoon, and some cash as network coverage can be limited and digital payments may not work everywhere .
Cheapest Day to Book Hotels: According to Trip.com data, hotel rates in Matheran are typically lowest on Saturday, with average nightly rates around $32 .

Conclusion

Matheran is a destination that engages all your senses. It’s the feel of the cool mountain air, the sight of a sunset from Panorama Point, the sound of the toy train, and the taste of a perfectly spiced biryani or a warm, fluffy roti.

Whether you choose to rest your head in the character-filled Dune Barr House, dine in the garden at Garden View Restaurant, or hunt down the legendary biryani at Shabbir Bhai’s, you are participating in a tradition of hospitality that is as old as the hill station itself.

So pack your walking shoes, leave your car behind, and get ready to explore the timeless charm of Matheran.

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