The Neral-Matheran Toy Train is one of the most charming ways to reach Matheran hill station. This little red train has been chugging along the mountainside for over a century, and riding it feels like stepping back in time. If you're planning a trip to Matheran, taking this toy train should definitely be on your bucket list.
What Makes This Train Special
This isn't just any regular train ride. The Neral-Matheran railway is a narrow gauge track that covers 21 kilometers through the beautiful Sahyadri hills. What makes it really special is that it's been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. The train moves at a relaxed speed of about 20 kilometers per hour, which gives you plenty of time to soak in the stunning views of valleys, waterfalls, and dense forests.
The journey takes you through some really scenic spots. You'll pass through several tunnels, cross bridges, and wind around sharp curves that make the ride thrilling yet safe. The best part is hanging by the door and feeling the cool mountain breeze as the train slowly climbs up the hill.
A Bit of History
The railway line was built between 1901 and 1907 by Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy, a wealthy businessman who loved visiting Matheran. He wanted an easier way to reach the hill station, so he funded the entire project himself. Back then, it cost around 16 lakh rupees, which was a huge amount of money in those days.
The engineering behind this railway is quite impressive. Building a train track up a steep mountain wasn't easy, but the engineers designed it with zig-zag reversals that help the train climb gradually. This clever design is still working perfectly after more than 100 years.
The Journey Experience
The train starts from Neral Junction, which is well connected to Mumbai and Pune by regular trains. Once you board the toy train, it stops at four stations along the way – Jummapatti, Water Pipe, Aman Lodge, and finally Matheran.
The entire journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on which train you catch. Some trains are faster than others. During the ride, you'll notice the temperature dropping as you climb higher, so it's a good idea to carry a light jacket, especially during winter months.
One of the highlights is the view from One Kiss Tunnel. It's called that because it's so narrow and short that couples sitting on opposite sides can supposedly kiss as the train passes through! There are also several waterfalls that come alive during monsoon season, though the train service is suspended during heavy rains for safety reasons.
Train Timings and Schedule
The toy train runs multiple times a day during the tourist season. Here's the current schedule, but it's always good to check with the railway station before you travel as timings can change:
| Neral-Matheran Toy Train Timetable | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neral to Matheran | Matheran to Neral | |||||
| Sr. No. | Train No. | Departure | Arrival | Train No. | Departure | Arrival |
| 1 | 52111 | 06:40 AM | 08:40 AM | 52102 | 07:00 AM | 08:35 AM |
| 2 | 52101 | 07:30 AM | 09:29 AM | 52104 | 09:45 AM | 11:35 AM |
| 3 | 52103 | 09:00 AM | 11:00 AM | 52106 | 12:50 PM | 02:30 PM |
| 4 | 52105 | 10:30 AM | 12:25 PM | 52110 | 02:05 PM | 03:45 PM |
| 5 | 52107 | 12:00 PM | 02:00 PM | 52108 | 03:15 PM | 04:50 PM |
| 6 | 52109 | 05:05 PM | 07:00 PM | 52110 | 04:45 PM | 06:30 PM |
Ticket Prices and Classes
The toy train has both first class and second class coaches. If you want a more comfortable ride with reserved seats, go for first class. Second class is perfectly fine too, though it can get crowded during weekends and holidays.
Current ticket prices are approximately:
Second Class: Around ₹90 for adults and ₹50 for children
First Class: Around ₹360 for adults and ₹200 for children
You can book tickets online through the IRCTC website or buy them directly at Neral station. During peak season (October to May), it's better to book in advance as trains fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Tips for Your Toy Train Journey
Arrive early: Get to Neral station at least 30 minutes before departure. This gives you time to buy tickets if you haven't booked online and to find a good seat.
Choose your side: If you want the best views, try to sit on the right side when going up to Matheran. You'll get better valley views from that side.
Carry water and snacks: There are vendors at stations, but it's good to have your own supplies. The journey is long and you might get hungry.
Keep your camera ready: There are so many photo opportunities along the way. Just be careful not to lean out too much while taking pictures.
Check monsoon status: The train doesn't run during heavy monsoons (usually July to September) due to landslide risks. Always verify the service status before planning your trip.
Alternative: The Aman Lodge Route
If you don't want to take the full journey from Neral, you can also start from Aman Lodge station. Some people prefer driving or taking a taxi to Aman Lodge and then catching the toy train from there. This option works well if you're short on time, as it cuts the journey to about 45 minutes. However, you'll miss some of the scenic lower sections of the route.
Why Take the Toy Train
You might wonder if it's worth spending 2 hours on a train when you could reach Matheran faster by other means. Here's why people love this train: it's not just about reaching the destination, it's about the journey itself. The slow pace lets you really appreciate the natural beauty around you. You'll see things from the train that you'd miss in a car – like hidden waterfalls, local villages, and birds flying at eye level.
Plus, there's something nostalgic and romantic about train journeys, especially on these old heritage trains. Kids absolutely love it too. It's an adventure they'll remember for years.
Places to Visit in Matheran
- Louisa Point
- Charlotte Lake
- Echo Point
- Panorama Point
- Sunset Point
- One Tree Hill Point
- Alexander Point
- Honeymoon Point
- Matheran Market
- Monkey Point
- Khandala Point
- King George Point
Important Note: The Neral-Matheran Toy Train service is suspended during the monsoon season (typically June to September) due to safety concerns regarding landslides and heavy rainfall. Always check the current operational status before planning your visit.
