The Neral to Matheran Toy Train
The Neral to Matheran toy train is one of India's most charming heritage rail journeys, winding through lush Western Ghats landscapes on a historic narrow gauge track. This mini train connects Neral with the vehicle-free hill station of Matheran, offering passengers a nostalgic ride through tunnels, bridges, and scenic valleys.
Explore More
For more information about exploring this beautiful destination, visit our comprehensive guide to Matheran hill station.
Overview of Matheran Toy Train
The Matheran mini train is a narrow gauge railway operational since 1907. Recognized by UNESCO as part of India's Mountain Railways heritage, this toy train climbs steep gradients through dense forests with breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountains. The Matheran hill station toy train operates on a 2-foot narrow gauge track, making it an engineering marvel that has stood the test of time.
About Matheran Toy Train
The Matheran toy train has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century when Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy built this railway. The narrow gauge track spans approximately 21 kilometers and features vintage coaches with a diesel locomotive. This railway is famous for being one of the few remaining operational toy trains in India, taking passengers through over 280 curves, several tunnels, and numerous picturesque viewpoints.
Neral to Matheran Distance by Toy Train
The distance between Neral and Matheran by toy train is approximately 21 kilometers. Despite the short distance, the journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours due to the steep gradient and numerous curves. The train ascends from 40 meters at Neral to 850 meters at Matheran, climbing through challenging terrain with panoramic views of valleys and waterfalls during monsoon season.
Matheran Toy Train Route
The Matheran toy train route begins at Neral toy train station and winds uphill through stations including Jummapatti, Water Pipe, and Aman Lodge (Matheran's main station). The route passes through dense forests, crosses bridges, and offers stunning views of surrounding hills and valleys, particularly spectacular during monsoon when waterfalls cascade down hillsides.
Neral Toy Train Station Details
Neral toy train station is located adjacent to Neral Junction on the Central Railway line. The station features ticket counters, waiting areas, and parking spaces. The toy train platform is separate from the main station with basic amenities like restrooms and refreshment stalls. During peak season, arriving early is advisable as the station gets crowded.
Neral to Matheran Toy Train Timings
Trains from Neral
| Departure from Neral | Arrival at Matheran | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 8:40 AM | 11:05 AM | Regular |
| 10:20 AM | 12:45 PM | Regular |
| 12:30 PM | 3:05 PM | Regular |
| 4:00 PM | 6:25 PM | Regular |
Note: Timings are subject to change. Additional trains may run during weekends and holidays. Always verify the latest schedule on IRCTC or at the station.
Matheran to Neral Toy Train Timings
Trains from Matheran
| Departure from Matheran | Arrival at Neral | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | 11:25 AM | Regular |
| 12:00 PM | 2:25 PM | Regular |
| 2:30 PM | 5:05 PM | Regular |
| 5:00 PM | 7:25 PM | Regular |
Note: Timings are subject to change. Additional trains may run during weekends and holidays. Always verify the latest schedule on IRCTC or at the station.
Matheran Toy Train Ticket Price
| Class | Adult Fare | Child Fare (5-12 years) |
|---|---|---|
| Second Class | ₹70 | ₹40 |
| First Class | ₹300 | ₹200 |
Note: Children below 5 years travel free. Fares are for one-way journeys.
Matheran Toy Train First Class
The Matheran toy train first class offers cushioned seats, larger windows, and less crowding compared to second class. First class passengers get priority boarding and reserved seating, especially beneficial during busy periods. While the fare is higher, many travelers find it worth the extra cost during peak season.
Matheran Toy Train Booking Process
Online Booking (IRCTC)
Neral to Matheran train booking through IRCTC:
- Visit www.irctc.co.in or open the IRCTC Rail Connect app
- Log in to your account
- Enter "Neral" as source and "Matheran" as destination
- Select travel date and choose train and class
- Enter passenger details and complete payment
- Download your e-ticket
Online booking is recommended during peak season (October to May). Tickets can be booked up to 120 days in advance.
Offline Booking
Matheran mini train ticket booking is available at Neral toy train station counter, opening one hour before the first train. Offline booking suits last-minute plans, though weekends and peak season may see tickets sell out quickly.
Is Matheran Toy Train Running Now?
The toy train running in Matheran operates from mid-October to mid-June. Services are suspended during monsoon season (June to September) due to safety concerns. Check current operational status through IRCTC or Central Railway before planning your trip.
Best Time to Travel by Toy Train
The best time for the Matheran toy train is during winter (November to February) with pleasant weather and excellent visibility. Post-monsoon (October-November) offers lush greenery. Summer (March to May) is operational but warm. Monsoon sees train services suspended.
How to Reach Matheran from Neral (Without Toy Train)
Taxis and shared cabs from Neral station to Dasturi Naka take 45 minutes to 1 hour (₹500-800 private taxi, ₹50-100 shared). From Dasturi Naka, walk 30-40 minutes or hire a horse/rickshaw (₹200-400) to reach Matheran's main area.
Neral to Matheran: By Road vs Toy Train
| Factor | Toy Train | By Road |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 2-2.5 hours | 1.5-2 hours total |
| Cost | ₹70-300 per person | ₹700-1200 total |
| Experience | Scenic, heritage | Faster, convenient |
| Availability | Oct-Jun | Year-round |
| Best For | Experience seekers | Quick visits, monsoon |
Karjat to Matheran Toy Train (Clarification)
The toy train operates only between Neral and Matheran, not from Karjat. Karjat is 11 kilometers from Neral. Travelers take regular trains to Neral Junction, then board the toy train. There is no direct toy train service from Karjat.
Matheran Railway Station Details
Matheran railway station (Aman Lodge) is the toy train terminus. Located at the edge of town, it features ticket counters, waiting areas, and restrooms. The main market is 1.5-2 kilometers away, accessible by foot or horse. For shopping and dining, check out Matheran Market.
Important Travel Tips
- Keep luggage minimal; soft bags preferred over large suitcases
- Book advance tickets during peak season and weekends
- Reach Neral station 30-45 minutes before departure
- Sit on the left side going up for better valley views
- Carry water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing
- Book return tickets upon arrival at Matheran
- Have a backup plan (taxi option) if tickets are sold out
FAQs About Matheran Toy Train
- Is Matheran toy train running today?
- The toy train typically runs from mid-October to mid-June, suspended during monsoon. Check IRCTC or call Neral station for current status.
- What is the distance between Neral and Matheran?
- The distance between Neral to Matheran by toy train is approximately 21 kilometers.
- Can we book Matheran toy train online?
- Yes, Matheran toy train booking is available through IRCTC website or mobile app up to 120 days in advance.
- Is toy train available in monsoon?
- No, services are suspended from mid-June to September/October due to heavy rainfall and safety concerns.
- How long does the toy train journey take?
- The journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours to cover 21 kilometers due to steep gradients and curves.
- What is the ticket price for Matheran toy train?
- Second class costs ₹70 for adults, ₹40 for children. First class is ₹300 for adults, ₹200 for children (one-way).
