How to Reach Matheran from Mumbai for a Quick Weekend Escape

Time of India

3 days ago

Mumbaikars are blessed souls for sure as they are surrounded with some amazing options when it comes to weekend escapes. From Lonavala to Matheran and Khandala to Alibaug, Mumbai people have incredible options to choose from.
And if you choose Matheran, here we are going to tell you how you can reach this gem of a hill station in Maharashtra.
Not many must be aware of the fact that Matheran is also Asia's one of the vehicle-free hill stations known for its scenic charm away from Mumbai's chaotic life. This colonial-era hill station is perfect for enjoying toy train rides and pleasant weather.
How to reach
By Road: Drive till Dasturi Naka, then walk or ride
Matheran is about 86 km from Mumbai city and if you are driving, the ride takes around 2.5 to 3 hours (highly depends on traffic condition of the day).
Route: Mumbai–Pune Expressway or NH-48 till Chowk, Karjat–Neral–Matheran Road up to Dasturi Naka, which is also the last motorable point before you enter Matheran.
Parking: Park your vehicle at Dasturi Naka and from this point no vehicles are allowed further inside the hill station.
Walk: From Dasturi Naka, you need to trek 2.5 km to Matheran Market.
Horse Ride: If you don't want to walk, hire a local horseman who will take you up the hill for a fee.
Rickshaw: This traditional mode is unique to Matheran and offers a slower but relaxing way to reach the place.
By Train: Mumbai to Neral + Toy Train or Shared Cabs
Neral is the nearest railhead for Matheran. From Mumbai, there are several local trains available from CST, Dadar, Thane, and Kalyan. These trains take about 1.5 to 2 hours. It is suggested to take early morning trains which are perfect to make the most of your weekend.
From Neral to Matheran:
You can choose Matheran Toy Train, which is the narrow-gauge Hill Railway, which also happens to be a UNESCO-recognised heritage route. It links Neral to Matheran. The toy train takes around 2 hours but it only runs seasonally. Trust me it will be one of the most beautiful journeys of your life!
Tickets can be booked on the IRCTC website or purchased at Neral station.
Secondly, you can also choose the option of shared Jeep/Taxi to Dasturi Naka:
In case the toy train is not available when you are visiting, you can take a shared taxi or jeep which are easily available from outside Neral station.
The ride takes about 25–30 minutes.
From Dasturi Naka, walk on foot, horseback, or by hand-pulled rickshaw.
By Bus: Less preferred
While Matheran isn't directly connected by public buses, you can take a MSRTC or private bus to Neral or Karjat, then proceed to Dasturi Naka by local cab or auto-rickshaw. However, this method is less preferred due to longer wait times and transfers.
Tips:
Avoid Monsoon for Toy Train: The service is often suspended during heavy rains due to landslides.
Do check official IRCTC and Maharashtra Tourism websites before.
For silent seekers, Matheran is a perfect and promising retreat offering the much needed break for the soul!