Matheran is a charming hill station located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, known for its lush greenery and vehicle-free environment. Pune, a bustling city in western Maharashtra, serves as a popular starting point for travelers heading to Matheran, especially for weekend getaways and nature retreats.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Matheran from Pune, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best time to visit, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey to this serene destination.

Getting from Pune to Matheran – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a convenient and economical way to reach near Matheran, with the closest station being Neral. From Pune, trains connect to Neral regularly, making it a popular choice for budget travelers and those who enjoy scenic rail routes.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Pune Junction (PUNE) to Neral Junction (NER), approximately 120 km away. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours depending on the train service chosen.

• Ticket cost and frequency:

  Train fares range from ₹100 to ₹300 for second class and sleeper classes. Several trains run daily, including passenger and express services, with early morning and afternoon departures.

• Comfort and service:

  Trains are generally clean and reliable; however, avoid peak hours to secure seating. Carry water and snacks as onboard catering is limited on passenger trains.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Neral station, Matheran is accessible via a 21 km toy train ride or taxis. The toy train is a scenic, eco-friendly option but operates only from Neral station and may be seasonal.

• Seasonal tips:

  During monsoon, train services may face delays due to landslides or track maintenance. Check IRCTC updates before booking.

Bus

Buses provide a budget-friendly and fairly frequent option to reach Neral or directly to Matheran’s base points. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates several routes connecting Pune to Neral and nearby towns.

• Bus routes:

  MSRTC buses run from Pune’s Swargate bus station to Neral or Panvel, from where you can take local transport to Matheran. The journey takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Ticket prices:

  Bus fares range from ₹100 to ₹200 for ordinary and semi-deluxe buses. Booking tickets in advance during weekends is advisable due to high demand.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Semi-deluxe and air-conditioned buses offer more comfort but run less frequently. Ordinary buses are more frequent but can be crowded.

• Last-mile travel:

  From Neral or Panvel bus stands, you can hire shared jeeps or taxis to reach Matheran’s entry points, as private vehicles are not allowed inside the hill station.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak monsoon hours when roads can be slippery. Early morning buses help avoid Pune city traffic.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Matheran offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic views along the way. The route covers approximately 120 km via NH48 and SH79, taking around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Route details:

  Take NH48 from Pune towards Mumbai, then exit at Chowk to join SH79 leading to Neral. Follow signs to Matheran’s parking areas at Dasturi or Aman Lodge, as vehicles are not permitted inside the hill station.

• Road conditions:

  Roads are generally well-maintained, with some narrow and winding stretches near Matheran. Drive cautiously, especially during monsoon when fog and slippery roads are common.

• Parking:

  Ample paid parking is available at Dasturi Car Park and Aman Lodge. Rates vary from ₹100 to ₹200 per day. From here, you must proceed on foot, horseback, or the toy train.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Expect tolls on NH48 and some state highways. Travel time can increase during weekends due to traffic jams near Neral and Matheran entry points.

• Scenic stops:

  Consider stopping at Karjat or Neral for refreshments. The drive offers lush greenery and glimpses of Western Ghats landscapes.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Pune to Matheran is a comfortable and hassle-free option, especially for groups or those preferring door-to-door service. Several private taxi operators and app-based services like Ola and Uber offer this route.

• Booking options:

  Pre-book a taxi via local operators or apps. Fixed fares usually range between ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 one way, depending on vehicle type and season.

• Convenience:

  Taxis offer direct drop-offs at parking areas near Matheran, eliminating the need to navigate public transport. Drivers often assist with luggage and local guidance.

• Travel time:

  Similar to self-drive, expect 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic. Avoid peak hours to reduce delays.

• Local regulations:

  Private vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran; taxis will drop you at designated parking zones. Confirm this with the driver beforehand.

• Additional tips:

  Negotiate fares in advance if booking offline. For late arrivals, ensure your taxi driver waits or arrange for a return pick-up to avoid last-mile hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers from Pune to Matheran plan their journey efficiently, covering ticket booking, transit, and last-mile connectivity.

• Book your train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or MSRTC online portals for buses, especially on weekends and holidays to avoid sold-out situations.

• Reach Pune station or bus stand early:

  Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus bay easily and avoid last-minute rush.

• Travel to Neral station or bus stand:

  Upon arrival, use prepaid taxis or shared jeeps to reach Matheran’s parking areas. Confirm rates and routes before boarding.

• Choose your last-mile option:

  From parking, take the famous Matheran toy train (if operational), walk along scenic trails, or hire a horse for the uphill journey into the hill station.

• Carry essentials for the hill trek:

  Water, comfortable shoes, and light snacks are recommended as Matheran has limited vehicular access and fewer eateries.

• Plan your return trip:

  Check train and bus timings for your return to Pune, and book taxis in advance if needed to avoid waiting in the evening.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Matheran is generally safe, but avoid walking alone on isolated trails after dark. Carry a flashlight if you plan to return late.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and snacks from Pune, as options inside Matheran are limited and can be costly.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official IRCTC and MSRTC websites or apps to book tickets. Avoid touts at stations to prevent overcharging.

• Local commute:

  Use prepaid taxis or shared jeeps at Neral for last-mile travel. Inside Matheran, walking or horseback is the only option as vehicles are banned.

• Luggage:

  Travel light since you will need to carry bags on foot or horseback. Use backpacks instead of rolling suitcases.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon brings heavy rains and slippery paths; carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Matheran from Pune is between October and May when the weather is pleasant and roads are safe. Monsoon months offer lush greenery but come with travel challenges.

Planning your trip outside peak festival weekends and avoiding early morning fog hours ensures a smoother journey.

• Avoid traveling during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali weekends due to heavy traffic on NH48 and SH79.

• Monsoon (June to September) can cause landslides and slippery roads; check local advisories before traveling.

• Early morning departures (7–9 AM) help avoid Pune city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Late afternoon trips may face fog near Matheran, reducing visibility and increasing travel time.

Arrival at Matheran & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Matheran’s parking areas like Dasturi or Aman Lodge, travelers experience a peaceful, vehicle-free environment surrounded by dense forests and viewpoints. The air is fresh, and the atmosphere is ideal for nature lovers.

Local commute inside Matheran is by foot or horseback. Popular attractions such as Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Charlotte Lake are accessible via walking trails. Stay options range from budget guesthouses near the market to mid-range hotels close to the main bazaar.

Prepaid taxis and shared jeeps are available at Neral station and bus stands for onward travel. For late arrivals, booking cabs via Ola or Uber to Neral and then switching to local transport is advisable.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Matheran from Pune is by train to Neral followed by the toy train or taxi to Matheran’s entry points. This option balances cost, comfort, and scenic value, making it ideal for most travelers.

Whether you prefer the flexibility of self-drive or the convenience of a taxi, planning ahead and following this guide will ensure a smooth journey. With its serene environment and beautiful landscapes, Matheran awaits you for a refreshing escape from Pune’s urban bustle.