Springs in Matheran - Natural springs

In the early stages of the development of Matheran the only water available was from the numerous springs dotted on all 4 sides of Matheran. There are 23 springs.
Tap water in Matheran was started in 1927. Charlotte lake was built in 1857 and was made larger and deeper in 1956. The water was drawn from these springs and carried by bhistis (tribal water men) in pakhals (large bladder like bags made from buffalo skin).
Some of these springs are easily accessible, some are not. Some are in the forest, away from the regular paths, some involve a steep descent. According to me these are sacred places and have to be taken care of and revered. In fact, taking care of such place means that they have to be left alone. Nature is taking care of them. They have been there for thousands of years, quenching the thirst of various animals, birds, reptiles etc for centuries before man stepped foot on these hills. Most of the residents of Matheren have not been to these holy places, they regularly visit temples instead. Nature likes it this way, I sincerely hope it remains like this. (I have asked a few residents, all of them have said No)

I have visited some of these springs and have attached some photographs. Some spots are very scenic and resound with SILENCE. I intend visiting all of them and will add photos and write ups as and when I visit.

List of Springs

Malet – near Our point

Dhangarwada – feeds Simpson tank

Black water – near the railway lines, at the start of Garbut trail

Tamdi – in the Garbut jungle – emerging from thick forest

Monkey – at the start of trail to Dodhani village

Harrison – near Myra point

Mango – near Honeymoon point

Ripo – near Our point

Paymaster well – at Paymaster park

Walker’s Tank – near Honeymoon point

Ponsomby’s – near Peb point