How to Go Matheran from Mumbai by Train – Travel Guide

Introduction

If you are planning a trip from Mumbai to Matheran, traveling by train is a convenient and scenic option. Matheran is a beautiful hill station near Mumbai, famous for its peaceful environment and vehicle-free zone.

In this guide, I will walk you through the best train routes, ticket booking tips, and how to reach Matheran from the nearest railway station. This will help you plan your journey smoothly and enjoy your visit without any hassle.

Train Routes from Mumbai to Matheran

Matheran does not have a direct train connection, so you need to travel by train to the nearest station and then use local transport to reach the hill station.

The closest railway station to Matheran is Neral Junction, which is well connected to Mumbai by frequent trains.

• Mumbai to Neral:

  You can board local trains from Mumbai CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) or Dadar to Neral. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Train Types:

  Both slow local trains and fast locals run on this route. Fast locals are quicker but may have fewer stops.

• Frequency:

  Trains run every 15-30 minutes during peak hours, making it easy to find a convenient time.

Booking Train Tickets

Since the Mumbai to Neral route is part of the Mumbai suburban railway, you don’t need advance bookings for local trains. You can buy tickets at the station or use smart cards for easy travel.

For long-distance trains that stop at Neral, you can book tickets online via the IRCTC website or app. However, these trains are less frequent compared to local trains.

• Local Train Tickets:

  Purchase at Mumbai CST, Dadar, or any suburban station before boarding.

• Smart Cards:

  Consider using Mumbai local train smart cards for faster entry and exit.

• Long-Distance Trains:

  Check IRCTC for trains stopping at Neral if you prefer a non-local option.

From Neral Station to Matheran

Once you reach Neral station, you have two main options to get to Matheran, as vehicles are not allowed inside the hill station.

• Matheran Toy Train:

  This narrow-gauge train runs from Neral to Matheran and offers a charming and scenic ride. It takes about 2 hours and is a popular choice.

• Shared Taxis and Walk:

  Shared taxis or rickshaws can take you to the starting point of the Matheran trek. From there, you can walk or hire horses to reach the town.

Note that the toy train may not run during monsoon season due to landslides, so check the schedule before planning.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Start early from Mumbai to avoid crowded trains and enjoy more time in Matheran.

• Carry light luggage as you will need to walk or use horses inside Matheran.

• Check the toy train timings and availability in advance, especially during monsoon.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on Matheran’s hilly paths.

• Keep some cash handy for local transport and horse rides, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

Alternative Travel Options

If you prefer not to take the train, you can also travel from Mumbai to Matheran by road. Buses and private cabs are available to Neral, from where you can continue to Matheran.

However, the train journey offers a more authentic and scenic experience, especially on the Mumbai to Neral suburban route.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mumbai to Matheran by train is a practical and enjoyable way to reach this serene hill station. Taking a local train to Neral and then the toy train or local transport to Matheran lets you experience the natural beauty and charm of the region.

By following this guide, you can plan your trip confidently, avoid common travel hassles, and make the most of your time in Matheran. Remember to check train schedules and local transport options before you go for a smooth and memorable journey.

FAQs

Is there a direct train from Mumbai to Matheran?

No, there is no direct train to Matheran. You travel by train to Neral and then take the toy train or local transport to Matheran.

How long does the train journey from Mumbai to Neral take?

The local train from Mumbai to Neral takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the train type and stops.

Can I book tickets online for the Mumbai to Neral train?

Local train tickets are usually bought at stations or via smart cards. Long-distance trains stopping at Neral can be booked online on IRCTC.

Does the Matheran toy train run all year?

The toy train may not operate during monsoon due to landslides. Check current schedules before planning your trip.

What are the transport options from Neral to Matheran?

You can take the toy train, shared taxis, or walk/ride horses from Neral to Matheran, as vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran.