Visit to Matheran

There have been many things on my mind for quite some time. I wanted to write about them all, but somehow did not manage to write about any. Why? Please don't ask me. I do not know the answer myself. All I know is that...tomorow never really came.

I had been to Matheran yesterday. It was one of our unplanned execursions. I had never visited Matheran before. Honestly, the place did not meet my expectations 100%. I had a much lovely picture about that place in my mind. The scenic beauty was not at all special. Something that would give you a tranquil feel. There could be many reasons for feeling so. But, one reason which truimphs over all is -commercialization. The place seems to be infested with vendors and horse renters. The moment you step into the premises (i call it premises because you actually have to buy a ticket and enter the vicinities) they hound you with their offers. "Sir, do you want a horse. Just 300 rupees to see 5 points." Half your excitement is overwhelmed with a feeling of guilt for rejecting their services. I really feel bad for the horses. They are mechanically drawn up and down the hill, and throught the terrain aimlessly carrying some tourist in a frenzy mood. But, what was heart wrenching was the sight of-Human Rickshaws & women porters. Your heart goes out to those frail looking people enduring high levels of physical strain to pull the rickshaws with tourist and heavy luggages uphill, or carrying piles of heavy luggages on their head and walking up those testing trails.

Being a tourist destination the cost of food and beverages too were undoubtedly on the higher side. Everything had a price. Besides, people with their irresponsible behaviour have littered at some of the points and caused irrepairable damages to the scenic beauty of some of the locations.

The experience was undoubtedly worth the efforts and exhaustion. I got to see many new things I have never witnessed before. I patted a horse after ages. The last time i did so was in my childhood. Perhaps, the journey was too short to leave a mark. I sure plan to visit that place again, but when I really don't know.

(Ps: I know this piece reads very negative. I will share good things about Matheran and my visit in my next posting. Till then chow)