Come Aboard On The Matheran Toy Train: For Fun, Food, Frolic, And More - You Can Have It All
Is the summer heat sapping your energy? Are you longing for an escape to a cooler and more relaxed environment? If you’re among those who reside in Western India, then look no further than Matheran, one of the country’s foremost hill stations. This well-liked hill retreat, at a height of around 800 meters over sea level, is located in the Raigad district of Maharasthra. Matheran witnesses throngs of families visiting it owing to its greenery, eco-friendliness (no automobiles are allowed), and nearness to Mumbai (around 100 kilometers away) and Pune. So if you’re keen on going there, the ever-popular Matheran toy train ought to be your prime transportation choice.
This unique train to the hill station - and indeed the entire Matheran railway line - can be credited to the British, who made the retreat their summer abode. Over the years, the train - which consists of small-sized coaches - has come to be immensely admired for its cuteness, convenience, scenic route, and facilities. Here more on this special Matheran locomotive and how you can benefit most from it.
The train commences at Neral (a Maharashtrian town some 25 kilometers away from Mumbai) and takes about 2 hours to get to Matheran, a distance of around 20 kilometers. There locomotive runs 6 times in day from each end – between 7.30 a.m. to 5.05 p.m. from Neral and between from 7.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. from Matheran. One may book tickets online via the official Indian railway site. Indeed, this one-of-a-kind Indian train is the best way to get to Matheran as you can have your fill of appealing locales, pure air, rich fauna, tasty treats, and above all – family revelry and bonhomie.
The Matheran train consists of diminutive coaches, usually dark blue in color, possessing separate second-class and first-class sections. Together the coaches have a capacity to seat around 100 persons on benches laid out in the train. The first-class section, obviously, has better seat quality and roominess with tickets going for over Rs 200 per person.
The route is a beautiful and eventful one. As the train leaves Neral and approaches the hills, the environs turn woody and shaded with a decided nip in the air. You will definitely savor the atmosphere with your loved ones as the toy train chugs along its meandering path. The train halts at a few charming stops where you can stretch your legs and purchase refreshments. Further, the locomotive also passes through a brief tunnel – a definite treat for the little ones. With all these attractions, you’ll scarcely realize when the train actually steams into Matheran station.
The above description would certainly have whetted your wanderlust appetite. Be advised, however, that an early booking is strongly recommended to secure confirmed seats for yourself and your family members.