Matheran is located in the western ghats of Maharashtra. Matheran is a small hill station that offers a peaceful refuge from hectic city life. Situated approximately 90 km from Mumbai and 20 km from Pune, this hill station is a vehicle-free zone and is renowned for its natural beauty. It is suitable for those who want to enjoy a peaceful nature.
Matheran hill station was first discovered by Hugh Poyntz Malet in the year 1850. Later in 1885, Lord Elphinstone undertook its development. He constructed his own residence there and named it Elphinstone Lodge. He brought roads and a mountain railway to the town, and ever since then, Matheran has kept its colonial charm. You can see it in the big mansions, lanes, and toy trains of this lovely town.
To get to Matheran, you need to reach Neral Station near Mumbai, which is at the base of the hills. From there, you can find transportation options like private cars, taxis, and bus services to Dasturi Naka, about nine kilometers away from hill station. After Dasturi Naka, vehicles are not allowed, making this hill station unique as Asia’s only non-motorable hill station. If you want to visit Matheran hill station, Here is a full guide on how to reach.
How Do I Reach Matheran?
There are 4 ways to get from Mumbai, Pune, to Matheran: by bus, taxi, train, or car. Although there isn’t a train directly to Matheran, Pune and Mumbai are the largest near this hill station.
From Mumbai to Matheran:
1. By local Transport
If you want to go from Mumbai to Matheran hill station by train, first you need to catch a local train from CSMT to Karjat or Khopoli and leave at Neral station. From CSMT, it would take 2 or 3 hours to reach Neral. From Neral, you have two options. Firstly, you can opt for a shared cab ride, which costs around 80 rupees per person and drops you off at Dasturi Naka, from where you can proceed on foot or opt for a horse or hand-pulled rickshaw to reach Matheran’s main town.
After Dasturi Naka, vehicles are not allowed. The second option is to take the toy train from Neral to Matheran, which offers a unique and beautiful journey. It takes you right towards your destination, providing an enjoyable experience along the way.
2. By car
If traveling by car or bike, you can journey from Mumbai to Dasturi Naka, the gateway to Matheran hill station. It’s about 80 kilometers away. Typically, this drive takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and your selected route. There are two popular paths:
Route 1: Mumbai-PPanvel-SShedung-KKarjat-NNeral-DDasturi Naka
Route 2: Mumbai-TThane-BBadlapur-NNeral-DDasturi Naka
Upon reaching Dasturi Naka, as mentioned earlier, you can proceed by walking or opt for a horse or hand-pulled rickshaw to reach Matheran’s main town.
From Pune to Matheran:
1. By local Transport
From Pune, catch an express train to Karjat. Then switch to a slow train to reach Neral station, just 2 stops away. Once you’re in Neral, you can reach Matheran hill station by taxi or toy train, which is what I mentioned above. Axis and buses are quicker, taking about 15 to 20 minutes. But if you choose the toy train, be prepared for a 2-hour journey!
2. By car
Matheran hill station by road, From Pune, take the Mumbai Highway. When you reach Lonavala, exit the highway and switch to the old Pune-Mumbai road. Drive through Lonavala town, then head to Khandala. Stay on the same road until you reach Khopoli. There, take a right turn towards Karjat. Follow the Matheran road. Since cars aren’t allowed into hill station, you’ll need to park about two kilometers (Dasturi Naka) before reaching the town center.
Neral to Matheran Toy Train Information:
Watching the Matheran toy train wind its way through the lush green mountains of Raigad district in Maharashtra is truly spectacular. The journey starts from Neral Ghats, making 281 exciting turns before reaching the clifftops of the hill.
The train travels through the Western Ghats, taking about two hours to reach Matheran from Neral, winding through the mountains. However, train services are suspended every monsoon from June to October.
Toy Train Fares (Cost per Person)
Matheran to Neral
First Class: Rs. 300 (adults), Rs. 180 (children).
Second Class: Rs. 75 (adults), Rs. 45 (children).
Most frequently asked questions about Matheran hill station:
Places to visit in Matheran hill station.
Here are the most visited tourist attractions:
Charlotte Lake
Louise Point
Alexander Point
Panorama Point
Porcupine point
One tree hill point
Rambag point
Echo point
Prabal fort
Toy train
List out best hotels in Matheran hill station.
As per agoda here are the top 5 hotels:
Hotel Hilltone- panorama bungalow
Ashirwad Cottage
Discover Resorts – Karjat
Retreat Holiday Homes, Hideaway, at Sparsh Resorts, Karjat
Hublal cottage
Best time to visit Matheran hill station.
Winter is the best time to visit hill station. Complete hill is covered by fogg and the toy train experience on the top of the foggy hill station is the best experience.
How many days need to explore Matheran?
Two days and enough for exploring this place. Just do pre panning and explore as much as you can. Have a safe trip!
Is car allow in Matheran hill station
As said in my blog this hill station is a vehicle free hill station so that’s why no vehicle is allowed in Matheran but you can explore it by toy train and hour’s ride.
Conclusion:
Matheran is a peaceful and beautiful hill station in Maharashtra. You can easily reach Matheran from both Pune and Mumbai. The journey is scenic, and once you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by serene nature. For your stay, there are beautiful villas offering various activities. In just two days, you can explore all the major points of interest. Enjoy the thrill of horseback riding and soak up the tranquil environment. Matheran hill station is the perfect getaway for those looking to unwind and connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Matheran has something to offer everyone. So what are you waiting for? Please visit and explore the beautiful, smallest hill in India.
Also Read: 7 Most Adventurous Treks in Maharashtra for Unforgettable Memories