Matheran is a beautiful hill station located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. It is famous for its scenic views, toy train, and peaceful environment. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is the most common starting point for travelers heading to Matheran due to its proximity and connectivity.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Matheran from Mumbai. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Mumbai to Matheran – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical way to reach Matheran from Mumbai. The nearest railway station to Matheran is Neral, which is well connected to Mumbai by frequent local trains.

• Local trains run regularly from Mumbai CST, Dadar, and Thane to Neral station, covering approximately 80 km in 2 to 3 hours, with fares ranging from ₹20 to ₹60 depending on class and train type.

• From Neral station, you can take the famous Matheran toy train, which takes about 2 hours to reach Matheran, offering a scenic and unique experience, though it operates only during certain months due to weather conditions.

• During monsoon season, the toy train may be suspended due to landslides, so check IRCTC or local railway updates before planning your trip.

• Local trains can be crowded during peak hours, especially weekends and holidays, so plan your journey early morning or late evening for more comfort.

• Food options are limited on local trains, so carry snacks and water, especially for the toy train ride which has no catering services.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and affordable way to reach Matheran from Mumbai, especially for those who prefer road travel without changing vehicles.

• MSRTC buses depart from Mumbai’s Dadar or Borivali bus depots to Neral, taking about 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic, with fares between ₹100 and ₹200 for regular and deluxe services.

• From Neral bus stand, shared taxis or private cabs can be hired to reach Matheran, which is about 20 km uphill and takes 30 to 45 minutes by road.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and narrow; buses may run slower, so allow extra travel time and check weather conditions before departure.

• Night buses are limited, so daytime travel is recommended for safety and better visibility of the scenic route.

• Bus frequency increases during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance through MSRTC’s online portal or at the depot is advisable.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Matheran is a flexible and comfortable option, especially for families or groups who want to explore at their own pace.

• The distance from Mumbai to Matheran by road is approximately 90 km via NH48 and SH79, taking around 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Private cars can be driven up to Dasturi Car Park, as vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran; from there, you must walk or take a horse or hand-pulled rickshaw to reach the town.

• Toll plazas on NH48 and state highways may add to travel costs, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Parking at Dasturi Car Park is available but can be crowded during peak seasons; arriving early morning helps secure a spot.

• Roads are narrow and winding near Matheran, so cautious driving is essential, especially during monsoon when landslides and waterlogging may occur.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Mumbai to Matheran is convenient and comfortable, especially if you prefer door-to-door service without the hassle of transfers.

• Ola and Uber offer outstation rides from Mumbai to Neral or Matheran, with fares typically ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 depending on vehicle type and demand.

• Many local taxi operators provide packages including pickup from Mumbai, drop at Dasturi Car Park, and return, allowing you to avoid parking and last-mile travel issues.

• Taxi rides take about 3 hours, but can be longer during weekends or festival seasons due to heavy traffic on NH48 and local roads.

• Booking cabs in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons like weekends, holidays, and monsoon months.

• Ensure the taxi driver is aware that vehicles cannot enter Matheran town, so plan for walking or horse rides from the parking area.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Mumbai to Matheran, follow this simple plan to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

• Book your Mumbai to Neral local train tickets via the IRCTC app or at the station to avoid last-minute rush and ensure seat availability during weekends.

• Arrive at Mumbai CST or Dadar station at least 30 minutes before train departure to navigate crowds and find your platform easily.

• Once you reach Neral, buy your toy train ticket at the station or online if available; if the toy train is not running, arrange a shared taxi or cab to Matheran.

• Carry light luggage as vehicles are not allowed inside Matheran; pack essentials in a small bag for easy walking or horse rides.

• On arrival in Matheran, use local hand-pulled rickshaws or walk to your hotel; confirm your accommodation location beforehand to plan your last-mile commute.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and light snacks for the journey, especially if traveling by train or toy train, as food options are limited en route.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven paths in Matheran, as motor vehicles are banned inside the town.

• Book train and bus tickets in advance during weekends and holidays to avoid standing in long queues and ensure availability.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and transparent pricing when traveling from Neral to Matheran or within Mumbai.

• Keep a raincoat or umbrella handy during monsoon months, as sudden showers are common and can make walking slippery.

• Secure your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use digital payments where possible for tickets and local purchases.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Matheran is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Monsoon months bring heavy rains, making travel exciting but challenging due to slippery roads and occasional landslides.

Winter mornings can be foggy, causing delays in train and road travel, so plan accordingly. Early morning departures help avoid traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when Mumbai and nearby routes experience heavy traffic and crowded trains.

• Monsoon season from June to September can cause delays and temporary suspension of the toy train service due to safety concerns.

• Summer months can be hot in Mumbai, but Matheran remains cooler, making it a good escape from the city heat.

• Departing early in the morning from Mumbai helps you avoid rush hour traffic and reach Matheran with ample daylight for sightseeing.

Arrival at Matheran & What to Expect

When you arrive at Matheran, you will notice the absence of motor vehicles inside the town. The air is fresh, and the environment is peaceful, making it a perfect getaway from the city noise.

Local transport includes hand-pulled rickshaws, horses, and walking paths. Most hotels are located within walking distance from the main market area. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available only up to Dasturi Car Park or Neral station, so plan your last-mile travel accordingly.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Matheran from Mumbai is by taking a local train to Neral followed by the toy train or a short taxi ride. This option balances cost, comfort, and experience, especially for first-time travelers.

Planning your trip with advance bookings, checking weather updates, and preparing for the unique no-vehicle rule in Matheran will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. With these tips, you can confidently explore the serene hill station and make lasting memories.