Matheran is a charming hill station located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, about 90 km from Mumbai. Known for its lush greenery and vehicle-free environment, it attracts many visitors seeking a peaceful retreat from city life.

This guide explains the best ways to reach Matheran from major nearby cities like Mumbai and Pune. You will learn about train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with practical travel tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Mumbai or Pune to Matheran – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is popular for budget-conscious travelers and those who enjoy scenic routes. The nearest railway stations to Matheran are Neral and Panvel, well connected to Mumbai and Pune.

• Neral Railway Station is the closest railhead to Matheran, about 20 km away, connected by frequent local trains from Mumbai CST and Panvel, with fares ranging from ₹20 to ₹50 depending on class and train type.

• From Neral, you can take the famous narrow-gauge toy train or a shared taxi to Matheran; the toy train journey takes about 2 hours and offers beautiful views but runs less frequently, especially during monsoon.

• Panvel Station is another option, about 40 km from Matheran, connected by regular trains from Mumbai and Pune; from Panvel, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Neral and then proceed to Matheran.

• Train travel is economical and comfortable but can be crowded during weekends and holidays; booking tickets via IRCTC in advance is recommended to secure seats on popular trains.

• During monsoon season, train services to Neral may face delays due to heavy rains and landslides, so check weather updates and train status before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a convenient choice for travelers looking for direct road connectivity. State transport and private buses run regularly between Mumbai, Pune, and Neral or Panvel.

• MSRTC buses operate frequent services from Mumbai’s Dadar or Borivali bus stations to Neral, taking around 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic, with fares between ₹50 and ₹150.

• From Pune, buses to Neral or Panvel run regularly from Pune Bus Stand, covering approximately 120 km in 3 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹200.

• Once at Neral, shared taxis or the toy train can take you up to Matheran; note that private vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran, so plan accordingly.

• Bus journeys can be crowded during weekends and festival seasons; booking tickets in advance through MSRTC’s website or app is advisable.

• Road conditions on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery roads, so travel cautiously during June to September.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Matheran offers flexibility and comfort, especially for groups or families. However, private vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran town, so you must park at designated points.

• The drive from Mumbai to Matheran covers about 90 km via NH48 and State Highway 79, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• From Pune, the route is around 120 km via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48, taking about 3 to 4 hours; toll charges apply on expressways, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Park your vehicle at Neral or Dasturi Car Park, where secure parking is available for ₹100 to ₹200 per day; from here, you can take the toy train or walk to Matheran.

• The narrow roads leading to Matheran are steep and winding; avoid driving during heavy rains or foggy conditions to ensure safety.

• Self-drive gives you the freedom to stop at scenic points like Panorama Point or Garbett Point on the way, enhancing your travel experience.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab is a comfortable and hassle-free option, especially if you prefer door-to-door service without worrying about parking or public transport schedules.

• Ola and Uber offer outstation cabs from Mumbai and Pune to Neral or Matheran’s parking areas; fares typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 depending on vehicle type and demand.

• Private taxis can be booked for a round trip, allowing you to explore nearby attractions like Panvel and Karjat along with Matheran.

• Taxi drivers usually wait at Neral station or parking lots, making it easy to arrange last-mile transport to Matheran’s entry points.

• During peak tourist seasons, taxi availability may be limited and fares can surge; booking in advance through reliable apps or local operators is recommended.

• Ensure the taxi driver is aware that vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran; you will need to walk or take the toy train from the parking area to the town.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers heading to Matheran, helping you navigate the journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or MSRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles and secure preferred timings.

• Arrive early at the departure station or bus depot, especially on weekends, to find good seats and avoid crowded platforms or waiting areas.

• Upon reaching Neral, decide whether to take the toy train or a shared taxi to Matheran; the toy train offers a scenic ride but check its schedule as it may not run daily.

• If you choose the toy train, buy tickets at Neral station or online if available; for taxis, negotiate fares beforehand and confirm the drop-off point near Matheran’s entry.

• Carry light luggage as you will need to walk or use hand-pulled rickshaws inside Matheran; heavy bags can be difficult to manage on the hilly paths.

• Keep a mobile phone with local SIM and offline maps handy, as network coverage can be patchy in some parts of Matheran.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and snacks, as food options inside Matheran are limited and can be expensive; avoid drinking tap water to prevent stomach issues.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes since Matheran is vehicle-free and you will need to walk on uneven paths and slopes.

• Book accommodations well in advance during peak seasons like weekends and holidays to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for safer and transparent pricing; avoid unlicensed taxis or touts near stations and parking areas.

• Be cautious during monsoon months as heavy rains can cause slippery paths and occasional landslides; carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before traveling.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive gadgets in crowded areas; Matheran is generally safe but petty theft can occur in tourist spots.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Matheran is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and the roads are dry. Monsoon season brings lush greenery but also travel challenges.

During June to September, heavy rains can cause delays in train and road travel, and some tourist facilities may be closed for safety reasons.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when local traffic and accommodation demand peak sharply.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid Mumbai and Pune city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures on the way.

• Fog and mist are common in winter mornings, so plan your arrival accordingly to avoid reduced visibility on narrow roads.

• Summer afternoons can be warm but still comfortable in Matheran’s hill climate; carry sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Arrival at Matheran & What to Expect

When you arrive at Matheran’s entry points like Dasturi Car Park or the toy train station, you will notice the absence of motor vehicles inside the town. This makes the environment peaceful but requires walking or using hand-pulled rickshaws.

Local transport options include walking, horseback rides, and hand-pulled rickshaws. Popular places to stay are near Market Road and Panorama Point, offering easy access to viewpoints and eateries.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at Neral and parking areas for return trips. App-based cabs can be booked for pick-up from Neral but not inside Matheran itself. Plan your last-mile travel accordingly to avoid confusion.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Matheran depends on your budget and preferences. Taking a train to Neral followed by the toy train or a shared taxi is economical and scenic. For more comfort and flexibility, self-drive or hiring a taxi works well, keeping in mind parking restrictions inside Matheran.

Plan your trip by booking tickets and accommodations early, especially during peak seasons. Keep weather and local transport limitations in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. With these practical tips, you can confidently explore Matheran’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere without stress.