Things To Do
in Mātar
Mātar is a quiet inland town in western India where rural Gujarat meets a vibrant local market culture. The streets hum with spice stalls, textile workshops, and centuries-old temples that anchor daily life. Visitors can wander winding lanes to sample sweets, sip masala chai, and observe traditional crafts in action.
Surrounded by farmland and gentle hills, Mātar offers a relaxed pace and warm, welcoming hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey by visiting the ancient temples nestled in the heart of Mātar, where you can experience the rich culture and spirituality of the region. The serene atmosphere in the morning allows for quiet contemplation and photography opportunities. Engage with local devotees to gain insights into the temple traditions and practices.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling local delicacies like dal-baati and gatte ki sabzi. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the village, where artisans display their craft, reflecting the vibrant local culture. Don’t miss visiting the markets, where you can pick up handicrafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to watch the sky change colors, perhaps near a temple or a park. The evening breeze carries the sound of evening prayers, creating an enchanting ambiance. Consider joining a local family for dinner to experience authentic hospitality and cuisine.
Start your day with a refreshing nature walk through the picturesque hills surrounding Mātar, where the fresh air invigorates your senses. Witness the stunning views and diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this serene environment. Morning birdwatching can be particularly rewarding with many species calling the area home.
After your nature trek, return to the village for a hearty meal at a local restaurant that offers views of the scenic landscape. Spend your afternoon visiting a local school or community center to engage with children and understand their education and aspirations. This interaction provides a profound insight into rural life in India.
In the evening, head to a lookout point for panoramic views of the valley as the day transitions to night. Bring along a camera to capture the mesmerizing landscape during golden hour. Conclude your day with a local cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Gujarati thali lunch | $4-8 |
| ☕Tea or chai at cafe | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🛍️Local snacks/market purchases | $1-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality
- Affordability and authentic Gujarati experience
- Compact town with easy access to nearby countryside
- Delicious vegetarian cuisine and home-cooked meals
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Summer heat can be intense
- Less English commonly spoken outside the town center
- Longer travel times to major hubs for international flights
- "Kem cho?" - How are you?
- "Hu theek chhu." - I am fine.
- "Mara naam [Name] chhe." - My name is [Name].
- "Dhanyavaad." - Thank you.
- "Kripaya." - Please.
Places to Visit in Mātar
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil lakeside spot ideal for sunset reflections and silhouette shots over calm waters.
Narrow lanes, carved wooden balconies, and intricate latticework provide rich architectural photography opportunities.
Sunlit courtyards with stonework details and colorful lanterns; great for candid temple-life photography.
Colorful market scenes as merchants set up for the day; a dynamic backdrop for street photography.
Food in Mātar
Mātar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed, fluffy savory cakes made from fermented rice and chickpea batter; commonly enjoyed as a snack or breakfast with chutney.
Must-Try!
A winter specialty of mixed vegetables slow-cooked with fenugreek dumplings and coconut, typically served with puri or puri bhakri.
A flexible flatbread made with fenugreek leaves and spices; perfect with yogurt, pickle, or tea.
A contrasting pair of crunchy, salted gram flour sticks (fafda) and sweet fried spirals (jalebi); a popular street pairing.
Soothing rolled gram flour sheets with coconut tempering and sesame seeds; light and flavorful.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling lanes with stalls offering fafda, gathiya, samosas, bhajiyas, and fresh chutneys; great for an informal tasting of local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by wearing modest clothing, especially at religious sites and in rural areas.
Always ask before taking photos of people or private spaces; some residents may prefer not to be photographed.
A respectful greeting is to place hands together and say Namaste.
Remove shoes when entering religious sites or homes as appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Mātar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In sit-down restaurants, 5-10% is common if service is good; for informal eateries, rounding up is appreciated.
Cash in INR is widely accepted; mobile payments (UPI, Google Pay, PhonePe) are increasingly common; many hotels and larger shops accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures often above 40°C. Hydrate, wear a hat, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Humid with occasional heavy rains. Roads can become slippery; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Cool to mild daytime temperatures with cooler evenings. Layered clothing is recommended; comfortable for exploring outdoors.
Pleasant and moderate temperatures; ideal for walking tours and photography with clear skies.
Mātar at Night
Hiking in Mātar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike through gentle hills offering views of the plains and surrounding countryside.
Easy trail along local watercourses with vantage points for evening photography.
Airports
How to reach Mātar by plane.
Domestic flights connecting to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and other hubs; approximately 120 km from Mātar.
Regional airport with broader connectivity; about 180-200 km away.
Ahmedabad's major international hub with global connections; roughly 260-280 km away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of communities engaged in farming, crafting, and small business.
Some residents preserve traditional crafts such as weaving and pottery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in parks and school grounds.
Traditional and popular in villages and during community events.
Common in schools and club courts; casual games occur in public spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mātar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Gujarati cuisine is predominantly vegetarian. Look for thalis or vegetarian-friendly eateries. If avoiding onions/garlic for religious reasons, politely request no onion/garlic in dishes and note that some kitchens prepare without onion/garlic upon request.