Neral Matheran Toy Train
For delightful getaway, look no further than the Neral Matheran Toy Train, a timeless journey that again resumed on November 4 this year. This enchanting train ride weaves through the heart of the Western Ghats, taking you to the serene hill station of Matheran.
The journey to Matheran starts at Neral with the charming Matheran Toy Train, affectionately known as “PhulRani.” This narrow gauge railway meanders through the Western Ghats, treating passengers to breathtaking vistas. The train is not just a means of transport; it’s the only way to reach the plateau top of Matheran, which is why it’s so beloved by all who visit.
The ride is a two-hour spectacle as the train winds its way through the mountains, offering an unparalleled view of the surrounding natural beauty. Do keep in mind that the train service is suspended during the monsoon season, from June to October.
Let’s delve into the captivating story of this heritage railway and why it’s an absolute must-visit.
History of Toy Train from Neral to Matheran
Imagine stepping back in time to the early 1900s, during the British Raj, when Lord Elphinstone oversaw the construction of a tiny 2-foot gauge railway line from Neral to Matheran. This historic route has since become a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing in countless visitors from both India and around the world each year. It’s not just a train; it’s a piece of history that’s still alive.
Toy Train from Neral to Matheran Resumed from November 4
The mini toy train service in Matheran recommenced its operations on November 4 this year. This quaint train comprises six coaches, including second class, a Vistadome coach, and second class-cum-luggage vans. During the monsoon season, the train service is closed on the stretch from Aman Lodge to Matheran station. But now, the entire route from Neral railway station to Matheran is open for tourists to savor.
Neral Matheran Toy Train Timings
The Central Railways has laid out a schedule of Neral Matheran Toy Train for your convenience.
Toy train between Neral and Matheran Timings
From Neral to Matheran Toy Train Timings: The train will be available daily at 8:50 am and 10:25 am.
From Matheran to Neral Toy Train Timings: For return journey, if you are planning a single day trip then, the train will depart at 2:45 pm and 4:00 pm from Matheran.
Shuttle Services between Aman Lodge and Matheran: Additionally, there will be six shuttle services in both directions between Aman Lodge and Matheran daily. These shuttles come equipped with second-class, first-class coaches, and second-class-cum-luggage vans for your comfort.
Neral to Matheran Toy Train Booking
Neral Matheran Toy Train Ticket Booking: When it comes to booking your tickets, you can secure them at the Neral Railway Station counter just 45 minutes before your departure. Passengers in the second class can carry up to 5 kg of luggage, while first-class passengers can bring 7.5 kg. Each person can obtain a maximum of four Matheran toy train tickets from the station’s counter. You can also book your tickets from Mumbai or Pune, and it’s advisable to do so in advance during the peak season to secure your spot on this charming journey.
Neral to Matheran Toy Train Online Booking
Unfortunately no online facility available for booking Neral to Matheran toy train. This is mostly due to the limited seats available in the toy train. At a given point of time, only certain number of tickets are issued in the offline mode as well. Presently you can book Matheran Toy train ticket in Offline mode only. Recently Central Railways introduced a facility where you can book Neral Matheran Toy Train Tickets in advance to avoid disappointment on the day of travel.
Neral to Matheran Toy Train Ticket Price
The ordinary class fare ranges between Rs. 50 ad Rs. 160, while the Luxury class fare is worth Rs. 1352. Keep in mind, the ticket counter opens 30minutes in advance and its stopped once the all the seats fill in the toy train.
Matheran to Aman Lodge Shuttle Service Timings
- Train No.52154 Matheran Dep. 08.20 hrs Aman Lodge Arrival 08.38 hrs
- Train No.52156 Matheran Dep. 09.10 hrs Aman Lodge Arrival 09.28 hrs
- Train No.52158 Matheran Dep. 11.35 hrs Aman Lodge Arrival 11.53 hrs
- Train No.52160 Matheran Dep. 14.00 hrs Aman Lodge Arrival 14.18 hrs
- Train No.52162 Matheran Dep. 15.15 hrs Aman Lodge Arrival 15.33 hrs
- Train No.52164 Matheran Dep. 17.20 hrs Aman Lodge Arrival 17.38 hrs
- (On Saturday/Sunday) : Special-2 Matheran Dep. 10.05 hrs Aman Lodge Arrival 10.23 hrs. Special-4 Matheran Dep. 13.10 hrs Aman Lodge Arrival 13.28 hrs
Aman Lodge to Matheran Shuttle Service Timings
- Train No.52153 Aman Lodge Dep. 08.45 hrs Matheran Arrival 09.03 hrs
- Train No.52155 Aman Lodge Dep. 09.35 hrs Matheran Arrival 09.53 hrs
- Train No.52157 Aman Lodge Dep. 12.00 hrs Matheran Arrival 12.18 hrs
- Train No.52159 Aman Lodge Dep. 14.25 hrs Matheran Arrival 14.43 hrs
- Train No.52161 Aman Lodge Dep. 15.40 hrs Matheran Arrival 15.58 hrs
- Train No.52163 Aman Lodge Dep. 17.45 hrs Matheran Arrival 18.03 hrs
- (On Saturday/Sunday) : Special-1 Aman Lodge Dep. 10.30 hrs Matheran Arrival 10.48 hrs. Special-3 Aman Lodge Dep. 13.35 hrs Matheran Arrival 13.53 hrs
Matheran Toy Train Air-conditioned Saloon Coach: Ticket Booking Details
Central Railway has some exciting news for those planning to ride the Matheran Toy Train! They’ve introduced a special air-conditioned saloon coach for a more comfortable journey. This coach can accommodate eight people and is available for booking on round trips from Neral to Matheran, whether it’s just for the day or an overnight stay.
Do not confuse this with AC Vistadome coach. Vistadome coach tickets are available for individuals as well but this AC Saloon coach is available only for group bookings and in case no one books it, this coach will not be attached to the toy train!.
The Matheran Toy Train has been around for over 100 years, making it one of the unique mountain railways in India. Riding in the air-conditioned saloon coach is not just a unique experience, but it also adds to the joy of being close to nature and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Matheran.
If you’re interested in booking the air-conditioned saloon coach, you can do so by paying 20% of the total fare seven days before your journey, along with a refundable security deposit. The remaining 80% must be paid 48 hours before the journey. If you fail to do so, the advance payment and security deposit will be forfeited, and your booking will be considered canceled. No refunds will be given if you cancel within 48 hours.
You can make bookings with the Chief Booking Supervisor at Neral or any nearby station on Central Railway. Payments can be made through UPI, POS, or cash. If you pay at a station other than Neral, make sure to share the money receipt number with the Neral office on the same day.
For more information, reach out to the Chief Booking Supervisor at Neral. Happy travels!
You can stay at MTDC Resorts at Matheran, just at the entry point of Dasturi Naka near car parking area.
You can also read:
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Temporary Halt for Trains at Uruli on the Occasion of Makar Sankranti from December 27!
Konkan Railway Christmas Special Train 2023 to Thivim & Karmali From Mumbai, Pune & Panvel!
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The articles you write help me a lot and I like the topic
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