Neral-Matheran Toy Train Resumes Operations After Monsoon Break For a Nostalgic Journey Through Scenic Western Ghats
Neral, November 09, 2024: The beloved Neral-Matheran toy train, a fond attraction for both for tourists and locals , has resumed its scenic journey after a five-month monsoon break. This narrow-gauge train, which showcases the evergreen charm of mountain railways, reopened on November 6, 2024, offering travelers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats as it winds its way to the hill station of Matheran.
Neral to Matheran: An Iconic Toy Train Journey
The Neral-Matheran toy train is operated by Central Railway, covering a 20-kilometer route from Neral to Matheran. Along the way, the train makes three picturesque stops at Jummapatti, Water Pipe, and Aman Lodge, the latter being the last motorable point. Travelers can either take the toy train, walk, or ride horses to reach the tranquil, vehicle-free zone of Matheran from here.
Key features of the journey:
- Total travel time: Approximately 2.5 hours
- Train coaches: Six in total, including three second-class, one first-class, and two second-class-cum-luggage vans
Train Timings and Schedule
The Neral-Matheran toy train operates twice daily in each direction, offering ample opportunities for travelers to enjoy a day trip to Matheran.
- Neral to Matheran:
- First train: Departs Neral at 8:50 am, arrives in Matheran at 11:30 am
- Second train: Departs Neral at 10:25 am, arrives in Matheran at 1:05 pm
- Matheran to Neral:
- First train: Departs Matheran at 2:45 pm, arrives in Neral at 5:30 pm
- Second train: Departs Matheran at 4:00 pm, arrives in Neral at 6:40 pm
For travelers between Aman Lodge and Matheran, six shuttle services are available daily, with eight shuttles running on weekends to accommodate more visitors.
Ticket Prices for the Neral-Matheran Toy Train
Tickets for the Neral-Matheran toy train are available at Neral, Aman Lodge, and Matheran stations. Here are the current ticket prices:
- First Class: ₹300 (₹180 for children)
- Second Class: ₹75 (₹45 for children)
A Journey Through Matheran’s Natural Beauty
Situated at an altitude of 800 meters, Matheran is an enchanting hill station known for its lush valleys, cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Located 110 kilometers from Mumbai on the Mumbai-Pune rail route, Matheran is a vehicle-free paradise accessible only by foot, horse, or the historic Neral-Matheran toy train.
Operating on a narrow two-foot gauge line constructed in the early 1900s, the Matheran Light Railway (MLR) is currently on UNESCO’s tentative list for Mountain Railways of India, attracting tourists from around the world.
Suspended every year during the monsoon months from June to October, the Neral-Matheran toy train remains a timeless mode of transport for those seeking a nostalgic and scenic journey into the heart of Maharashtra’s Western Ghats.
