The monsoon had just begun to cast its spell, and it was the perfect time for our next adventure. I set out early from Dombivli, navigating the empty roads and soaking in the morning calm. The plan was to meet my friends at Kharghar, where our real journey would begin to Garbett Plateau, one of the lesser-known gems nestled on the eastern side of Matheran hill station. The journey, filled with misty trails, jungle patches, and expansive views, turned into an unforgettable experience.
Starting the Journey
We boarded the early morning and made our way towards Matheran, with excitement growing at every turn. After reaching near Jumapatti station, a lesser-crowded spot close to Garbett Plateau, we were welcomed by the serene beauty of the Western Ghats. From here, we could spot faraway places like Karjat, parts of the Garbett Plateau, and even the glimmer of a distant dam.
The moment we stepped off, we were greeted by cool breezes and lush greenery that made it hard to believe we were just a few hours away from Mumbai. After purchasing the entry tickets to Matheran, our trek officially began.
Into the Forest: Matheran’s Untamed Trail to Garbett
The trail from here took us through a rugged path passing by the Matheran market and then straight into the forest. Towering trees covered the sky, and the jungle came alive with the sounds of chirping birds and hidden insects. Every step felt magical nature at its rawest and most beautiful.
We were surprised to see such biodiversity from unusual mushrooms to colorful butterflies fluttering across our path. It was a refreshing change from the concrete jungle we came from.
After an hour or so of steady trekking, the forest opened up, revealing the stunning Garbett Viewpoint. The valley stretched endlessly, and clouds hovered just within reach. From this vantage point, you truly grasp the raw beauty of the Matheran hills and how Garbett Plateau quietly sits as its crown jewel.
The Hard Trek: Walking Across the Garbett Plateau
Crossing the Garbett Plateau isn’t easy. It’s wide, windy, and stretches like a green carpet across the hills. With the monsoon winds picking up, walking under the open sky on wet grass and narrow ridges made the trek thrilling and slightly risky.
This patch tested our endurance. There were slippery patches, sudden climbs, and deceptive trails that played with our sense of direction. But every step forward rewarded us with a new view mist-covered hills, flowing waterfalls in the distance, and the peaceful villages dotting the foothills around Matheran.
We took a moment to just pause and breathe it all in.
The Return: Rain, Clouds & a Memorable Exit
Just as we started to relax and take in the scenery, it began to rain. Slowly at first, then heavily a true monsoon downpour. With limited visibility and the trail turning slick, we had no choice but to begin our return journey.
This part of the trek was the most challenging. We moved carefully through the forest, with clouds chasing us from behind. But the thrill, the teamwork, and the laughter shared during this rainy escape made it worth every struggle.
We finally exited the trail drenched, exhausted, but overjoyed. Another memory added to our travel diaries.
Also Read :-A Monsoon Journey to Matheran: A Peaceful Escape to the Hills
Final Thoughts
The Garbett Plateau trek isn’t just another hike it’s a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and solitude that makes you feel alive. Located on the eastern edge of Matheran, it gives you a completely different perspective of the popular hill station. If you’re looking for a monsoon trek that offers everything from forests and valleys to clouds and waterfalls, this is the place to be.
If you love monsoon adventures like this, don’t miss our blog on
Monsoon Treks in Maharashtra: Green Escapes for Rainy Thrills
featuring more offbeat trails and lush green getaways!
