Neral is a small town located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, near the Western Ghats. It is famous as the gateway to the scenic hill station of Matheran. Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, lies about 80 kilometers northwest of Neral. Many travelers journey from Mumbai to Neral to enjoy nature, hill views, and the famous toy train ride to Matheran.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Neral. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and taxis, along with practical tips to plan your trip smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Mumbai to Neral – Main Options

Train

Taking a train is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Neral from Mumbai. The rail network connects Mumbai’s major stations to Neral with frequent services.

• The journey starts from Mumbai CST, Dadar, or Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) and ends at Neral Railway Station, covering around 80 km in approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on the train type and stops.

• Local trains on the Central Railway line run frequently, especially during peak hours, with fares ranging from ₹30 to ₹100 for second class and first class tickets, making it an affordable option.

• Trains can get very crowded during weekdays and festival seasons, so it is advisable to travel during off-peak hours or book reserved tickets via IRCTC for comfort.

• The station at Neral is small but well connected to local transport options like auto-rickshaws and taxis for last-mile connectivity to Matheran or nearby areas.

• During monsoon months, trains may face delays due to heavy rains and track maintenance, so check live train status before traveling.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and economical way to reach Neral from Mumbai, especially for travelers who prefer road travel and want to enjoy the scenic route.

• MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) operates regular buses from Mumbai’s Dadar or Kurla bus depots to Neral, with journey times of about 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

• Bus fares generally range between ₹70 and ₹150, depending on the type of bus (ordinary or deluxe) and route taken.

• Road conditions on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48 are good, but traffic congestion near Mumbai and toll plazas can cause delays during peak hours and weekends.

• Buses are less frequent in early mornings and late nights, so plan your trip accordingly to avoid long waits at the bus stand.

• There are several food stalls and rest stops along the highway, offering local snacks and refreshments during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Neral gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and explore nearby attractions along the way.

• The distance is approximately 80 km via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48, with a typical driving time of 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Self-drive car rentals are widely available in Mumbai, with daily rates starting around ₹1500 to ₹2500 depending on the vehicle type and rental company.

• Expect toll charges on the expressway and highways, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage through toll plazas.

• Driving through the Western Ghats can be challenging during monsoon due to slippery roads and fog, so exercise caution and avoid night driving in rainy seasons.

• Parking facilities near Neral station and Matheran are limited, so plan your parking in advance or consider using local taxis for last-mile travel.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber is a comfortable and hassle-free option for direct travel from Mumbai to Neral.

• Ola and Uber offer outstation rides from Mumbai to Neral, with fares typically ranging from ₹2500 to ₹4000 depending on the car type and demand.

• Taxi services provide door-to-door convenience and can be booked easily via mobile apps or local taxi stands.

• Travel time by taxi is usually 2.5 to 3 hours, but can increase during peak traffic or festivals.

• It is advisable to confirm the fare and return trip charges beforehand to avoid surprises, especially during holiday seasons.

• Some taxis also offer sightseeing packages including Matheran, which can be convenient if you plan to explore the hill station after reaching Neral.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Mumbai to Neral. It will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus ticket online via IRCTC or MSRTC websites to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush at stations or bus stands.

• Reach your departure point (Mumbai CST, Dadar station, or bus depot) at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure to navigate crowds and find your platform or bus easily.

• Carry light luggage and a water bottle, as local trains and buses can get crowded and may not have dedicated luggage space.

• Upon arrival at Neral station or bus stop, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs for safe and fair-priced last-mile travel to Matheran or your accommodation.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps or directions handy, as mobile network coverage can be patchy in the Western Ghats region.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, especially during monsoon, and carry rain gear or warm clothing as needed for hill station visits.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs from Neral station to avoid overcharging by local drivers and ensure safety during last-mile travel.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common among travelers in India.

• Book your train or bus tickets at least a day in advance during weekends or holidays to avoid sold-out situations and standing tickets.

• Local transport options like auto-rickshaws are available but may not operate beyond certain points near Matheran, so plan accordingly.

• Pack light and secure your luggage, as crowded trains and buses can increase the risk of theft or loss.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause landslides and roadblocks near Neral; check local news and travel advisories before starting your trip.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Neral is during the cooler months from October to February. The weather is pleasant, and the roads are less slippery, making travel safer and more comfortable.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains, which enhance the natural beauty but can also cause travel delays and slippery roads. Summer months can be hot and humid, especially in Mumbai, but Neral offers some relief due to its proximity to the hills.

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

• Monsoon rains can cause fog and landslides on the Western Ghats route, leading to delays or cancellations of trains and buses.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid Mumbai’s peak traffic and reach Neral before afternoon rains during monsoon.

• Evening travel is less crowded on trains but can be risky during monsoon due to poor visibility and slippery roads.

Arrival at Neral & What to Expect

When you arrive at Neral Railway Station or bus stand, you will find a small but busy area with several local transport options. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available to take you to Matheran or nearby hotels.

Prepaid taxi counters are located near the station exit, offering fixed fares and safer rides. App-based cabs like Ola and Uber also operate here but may have limited availability. Accommodation options are mostly clustered near the station and the road leading to Matheran, making it easy to find a place to stay.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mumbai to Neral is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer an affordable and frequent service, while buses provide a scenic road journey. Self-drive and taxis add flexibility and comfort for those who prefer private travel.

Planning ahead by booking tickets online, checking weather conditions, and arranging reliable last-mile transport will help you enjoy a smooth and pleasant trip. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey from Mumbai to Neral and explore the beautiful hills of Matheran with ease.