Mathira is popularly known as Mathira ya Githomo (education) due to a significant number of an educated population in the country.
It sits at the foot of Mount Kenya, creating a conducive climate for growing tea and coffee.
Several tarmac roads criss-cross Mathira, including the Kenol-Marua superhighway.
Education institutions include Karatina University, Tumutumu Girls High School, Kanjuri High School, Karatina Girls, Karatina Special School for the Mentally Handicapped, and Bishop Gatimu Ngandu Girls High School.
Kagochi Tea Factory is the largest private employer and Mountain Lodge leads in tourism.