After a four-month monsoon suspension, Central Railway has announced the resumption of the iconic Neral–Matheran toy train service from 6 November 2025, reconnecting one of Maharashtra’s most cherished hill stations with the plains. The reopening of this narrow-gauge heritage line marks a return of sustainable, low-impact travel to one of India’s oldest eco-sensitive hill destinations.
The 21-kilometre stretch between Neral and Matheran, first opened in 1907, is a UNESCO-recognised heritage corridor celebrated for its steep curves, forested slopes, and panoramic views. Services are suspended annually from June to October to prevent track damage caused by heavy rains and landslides. During this period, shuttle services between Aman Lodge and Matheran continue to ensure limited connectivity for residents and visitors. With full services now resuming, two pairs of regular trains will operate daily. Down services from Neral depart at 8:50 am and 10:25 am, while return journeys from Matheran leave at 2:45 pm and 4:00 pm. The trains will feature a mix of second-class, first-class, and vistadome coaches, allowing passengers to experience the lush Western Ghats in comfort.
An official from Central Railway stated that the resumption follows detailed inspections of the track and bridges. “Safety checks were completed to ensure that the monsoon did not compromise the structural integrity of the line,” the official said, adding that minor track rectifications and vegetation clearance were carried out ahead of reopening. In addition to the regular trains, Aman Lodge–Matheran shuttle services will continue daily to facilitate short-distance travel for those staying in the hill station. Weekend special services will also operate to cater to tourist demand, particularly from Mumbai and Pune, where Matheran remains a popular short-break destination.
Heritage enthusiasts and eco-tourism advocates have long emphasised the importance of the Neral–Matheran toy train as a model for sustainable mountain mobility. The train’s minimal carbon footprint and restricted access to vehicles within Matheran — where cars are banned — make it a unique example of low-emission tourism infrastructure. Transport experts highlight that maintaining and promoting such services supports India’s broader goals of preserving heritage transport systems while advancing eco-friendly travel models. “Matheran’s toy train demonstrates that heritage infrastructure can coexist with sustainable tourism,” an urban mobility expert observed.
As Maharashtra’s hill tourism picks up pace post-monsoon, the return of the toy train offers both nostalgia and a reminder of the potential for eco-conscious development in fragile hill ecosystems.
Also Read: BMC Launches CCTV Surveillance Across Parks And Playgrounds To Strengthen Public Safety
