The famous 150-year-old Matheran-Neral mini toy train resumes services for tourists and offers a scenic journey through the hills | Travel

Services of the iconic mini Matheran-Neral toy train resumed after a short break in the monsoon season. The train, which has a rich history of over 150 years, covers about 20 kilometers of track, offering people a scenic route through the small hill station. Swapnil Neela, Chief Public Relations Officer (CRPO), Central Railways, said that the train was stopped on June 8 due to rainy season and started on November 6.

Travel through scenic hills and historic routes

“This particular train covers a very short distance of 20 kilometers. It has 236 sharp curves through which passengers can also enjoy the ride. It is primarily a narrow gauge train and has a history of almost over 150 years. He reaches Neral, Matheran in about 2 hours 30 minutes. The CRPO also said that the train has six coaches: one first class coach and four second class coaches.

Passengers have various amenities and can buy first and second class tickets to experience the route in the hilly terrain, CRPO said: “The entire distance is covered, passengers have the option of purchasing first class tickets and second class tickets, and their prices are also suitable for travelers and unique passengers.” The train reportedly carries an average of 600-700 passengers per day.

The CRPO also said that the train is popular with school children as it offers them an exciting ride to the hilly areas of Matheran, free from vehicles. “This train gives all the passengers a real pleasure of viewing the scenic views of Neral and Matheran,” added Swapnil Nila. One of the passengers said that they also liked it on the first day of the trip. “I really like it, I was bored before because the train was a bit delayed, but then I bought a ticket and saw the view from the train, it’s really nice,” passengers said.

Opening hours and transport restrictions for tourists

Another 16-year-old passenger said, “I came from Mumbai specifically to travel on this train. I believe whoever stays in Maharashtra should come to Matheran if he has never visited the hill station before.” This toy train departs from Neral and ends at Matheran and the journey takes around 2 hours 30 minutes. The altitude initially starts at 40 meters above sea level and then gradually rises to 850 meters in Matheran.

The train usually runs twice from Neral to Matheran from Monday to Friday and also offers six transfers from Aman Lodge to Matheran. Two additional services are added on weekends to accommodate tourists in the area. “No other mode of transport is allowed between Aman Lodge and Matheran except railway, rickshaws and taxis permitted in the eco-zone,” the CRPO said.