Garbett Plateau, settled in the lap of Maharashtra, is a trekker’s paradise. The Garbett point provides a beautiful view of the Garbett plateau night trek. Garbett point trek from Matheran is on the South-west side with a grand view of the plateau. Deep forest runs through the Matheran, which covers approx. 8 sq Kms in the Sahyadris. Garbett plateau night trek can be a thrilling adventure. Garbett Plateau is located near Matheran, in the state of Maharashtra, India.

How To Reach Garbett plateau

There is two railway station nearby Garbett trek: –

1. Neral railway station

2. Bhivpuri railway station

• If you’re coming from Mumbai then you can take karjat local to reach the nearby station. 
• If you’re coming from Pune then you can take karjat local which will take around 15 to 20 min to reach the nearby station
• From matheran you can reach Neral railway station by taxi that will take total cost of INR 70.
• Garbett plateau trek to Matheran starts at Diksal which takes about 2-3 hours. You have to start with the walk which will go through Diksal to reach Dhom dam. Walking around the dam you will reach the Diksal waterfall. After a small stream crossing & a small climb you will reach a big tree & further to a village called Sagachiwadi which is surrounded by paddy fields. From there you have to pass a well and then just climb to reach the Garbett plateau.
• To officially complete the Garbett plateau trek, you need to climb to the Garbett point.

Garbett plateau night trek 

 It is located in a picturesque region. These types of treks usually include hiking under stars. Navigating through varying terrains and experiencing the natural beauty of that area. 

What you should carry for Garbett plateau night trek 

1. Wear sturdy hiking boots suitable for rocky and uneven terrain.
2. Ensure you have a reliable flashlight with extra batteries
3. Carry a map or a gps device
4. Ensure you’re wearing warm clothes
5. Pack yourself with a first aid kit in case of any injury
6. Have enough food and water. 

Garbett plateau night trek difficulty

1. Trek with a group of at least one other person for safety. 
2. Familiarize yourself with the path during the day light if possible and stick to those marked paths.
3. Try to be aware of local wildlife and learn how to respond if you encounter somehow.
4. Garbett plateau difficulty level is moderate but visibility is limited at night which can be challenging. 
5. The trek is a distance of about 6-8 kilometres, with uneven trail and involves some steep ascents and descents.
6. Weather can be unpredictable, especially during the monsoon season. The trail can become slippery and muddy, adding to the difficulty.

Garbett Plateau Night Trek camping

• The best time to camp at Garbett Plateau is during the monsoon (June to September) and the post-monsoon season (October to February)
• The plateau is lush green during the monsoon, and the weather is pleasant in the post-monsoon season.
• But first check if there are any permits required for camping. You can contact local authorities or a trekking organization for this information.
• Bring your own camping gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment. Ensure you carry enough water and food supplies.
• Follow the principles of Leave No Trace by cleaning up after yourself and not disturbing the natural environment.

Garbett Plateau Night Trek from Matheran 

• Reach Matheran by toy train or by road. Note that vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran, so you will need to walk or hire a horse/hand-pulled rickshaw to navigate within the town.
• The trek usually starts from the famous One Tree Hill Point in Matheran. From here, you will have to descend towards Garbett Plateau.
• During the monsoon season, you may need to cross a few small streams.
• After descending, you will have to begin the ascent to Garbett Plateau. The trail is marked but it still can be challenging due to the steep climb.
• Basic level of fitness is must for trekking.
• Distance – approx. 12-14 km round trip.
• Carry enough water, snacks like energy bar or fruits, a raincoat, a hat and sunscreen.
• You can also hire a local guide to navigate you clearly.
• Garbett trek difficulty level: – medium 
• Garbett plateau endurance level:- high
• Time required for climbing:- 4 to 4:30 maximum from Bhivpuri road
• Garbett point trek duration:- 1 day

Garbett Plateau Itinerary:-

Day 1 

• Arrive at Matheran early in the morning and Check into your hotel or guesthouse in Matheran.
• Have a hearty breakfast and start spending some time exploring Matheran. Visit some of the popular points like Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Charlotte Lake.

Day 2

• Begin your trek early to avoid the midday heat. Start around 6:00 AM.
• Head towards One Tree Hill Point, which is the starting point for the trek to Garbett Plateau.
• Begin the descent from One Tree Hill Point through the forest. 
• Cross small streams along the way. Be cautious of the slippery trail, especially during the monsoon.
• After the descent, start the ascent towards Garbett Plateau. The trail is steep in some parts but offers stunning views.
• Reach Garbett Plateau by late morning or early afternoon, depending on your pace.
• Take a break, rest, and explore the plateau. Have your packed lunch on the plateau while enjoying the scenery.
• Start your descent back towards Matheran in the afternoon. Follow the same trail you came up. Or you can descend to Diksal village and arrange for transportation back to Neral and then Matheran.
• Return to Matheran by late afternoon or early evening.
• Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.

Day 3:

• Have breakfast at your hotel.
• Check-out: Check out from your accommodation.
• Begin your journey back home. If you are taking the toy train, ensure you have tickets in advance. Or you can walk to Dasturi Naka and arrange for transport from there.

By following this itinerary, you can have a memorable and enjoyable trek to Garbett Plateau, taking in the natural beauty and serene environment of the Western Ghats.

Garbett plateau in winter

• At the Garbett plateau it’s easy for camping in winter.
• In monsoon winds are too powerful for tent.
• You can make your own tent near Dham dam and it is a feasible option.
• The place is cool and pleasant even when the sun raises the temperature in Mumbai

Hotels / food

•  Hotels are available at Matheran & Diksal which are the two end points of the trek.
• There is local shop near sagachiwad situated at the mid-point of the trek, here you will get delicious food.

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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs):-

Q1: How difficult is the Garbett Plateau Night Trek?

A. The trek is moderately challenging. It involves uphill climbs and uneven terrain. However, the enchanting surroundings make every step worthwhile.

Q2: How much is the Garbett Plateau Night Trek?

A. By road – 500 – 1000/-

By train – around 100-300/-

Q3: What is the base village of Garbett Plateau Night Trek?

A. Diksal

Q4: How long is the garbett point trek?

A. 5 to 6 km long.