One of the greatest highlights of a trip to the picturesque hill town of Matheran in Maharashtra is the charming toy train that connects Matheran and Neral. This historic narrow-gauge train, celebrating over 150 years of delightful journeys, had temporarily closed for the monsoon season. Services have now resumed as of November 6, inviting you to experience the enchanting scenery along this classic route once again.
150-Year-Old Matheran-Neral Mini Toy Train Resumes Service; All You Need To Know
Known for its scenic routes, the toy train takes passengers on a memorable ride through the verdant hills of the Western Ghats, offering a picturesque view of the countryside and the charming hill station of Matheran
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Routes And Timings
The heritage train travels along a picturesque route of approximately 20 kilometres to the beautiful hill station of Matheran. The Neral-Matheran route currently provides two daily trains in each direction. Trains depart from Neral at 8:50 AM and 10:25 AM and arrive in Matheran at 11:30 AM and 1:05 PM, respectively. Return trains from Matheran leave at 2:45 PM and 4 PM, reaching Neral by 5:30 PM and 6:40 PM, respectively. Each train comprises six coaches, including three second-class coaches, one first-class coach, and two luggage vans.
A commemorative postage stamp depicting the Neral-Matheran toy train SUDARSHAN BHATLA/Shutterstock
The railways have also reinstated the shorter shuttle service linking Aman Lodge and Matheran, which operates six times daily in each direction. The shuttle service commences journeys from Matheran at 8:20 AM and continues until 5:20 PM, while departures from Aman Lodge occur from 8:45 AM to 5:45 PM. If you're considering a weekend getaway to Matheran, use the convenient shuttle services offered by Central Railway. Two special shuttles depart from Matheran at 10:05 AM and 1:10 PM and return from Aman Lodge at 10:30 AM and 1:35 PM, making exploring the area on a short visit easy. Both second—and first-class options are available, along with ample luggage space, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
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About The Mini Railway
The heritage narrow gauge train is a huge draw with tourists Parikh Mahendra N/Shutterstock
The iconic railway line is among the oldest railways in India. It was constructed by the father-son duo Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy and Abdul Hussein Adamjee Peerbhoy between 1901 and 1906 and officially opened for travel in 1907. Known as the Matheran Hill Railway (Neral-Matheran Light Railway), it provides the only direct access to Matheran, a no-vehicle zone. The route winds through the Western Ghats and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
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