Are cars allowed in Matheran?

No, Matheran is a vehicle-free hill station.

How do I reach Matheran from Panvel?

Drive to Neral and then take a taxi or toy train to Dasturi Naka.

Is the toy train always operational?

It depends on weather and maintenance; check before planning.

What is the best way to move around?

Walking, horse riding, or hand-pulled rickshaws.

Is Matheran safe for families?

Yes, it is a very family-friendly destination.

Panvel

Matheran

Train Driving

Panvel to Matheran

Updated: 22 May 2026

Matheran is a unique, vehicle-free hill station located about 45 km from Panvel. To reach it, you must drive or take a train to Neral Junction. From Neral, you can take a taxi or the famous Matheran Toy Train to reach the hill station. Since no cars are allowed inside Matheran, you will explore the town on foot, by horse, or by rickshaw. The journey is short but involves a scenic climb through the ghats.

Total Distance: 45 km by road, 35 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi to Dasturi Naka, then walk or horse ride.

Cheapest Way

Local train to Neral, then shared taxi to Dasturi Naka.

Compare Panvel to Matheran Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Connecting
Duration	2 hours 30 mins	1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price	100-300 INR	1200-1800 INR
Operator	Central Railway	Private Taxi
Route	Panvel to Neral by local train, then Toy Train to Matheran.	Panvel to Neral via SH 54, then taxi to Dasturi Naka.
Tip	The Toy Train is subject to weather conditions; check status before travel.	You must park your car at Dasturi Naka as vehicles are banned in Matheran.

Travel Tips

No Vehicles
Be prepared to walk or hire a horse/hand-pulled rickshaw inside Matheran.
Entry Fee
A small municipal entry fee is charged at Dasturi Naka.
Footwear
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the paths are dusty and uneven.
Monkeys
Keep your food items hidden as monkeys are very active and bold.
Accommodation
Book heritage hotels or resorts well in advance for weekends.

Safety Tips

Horse Riding
Only hire horses from authorized stands and wear a helmet if provided.
Walking
Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost in the forest.
Hydration
Carry enough water as shops are spread out.
Emergency
The town has a small medical facility; keep contact details handy.