Central Railway organised the Matheran Station Mahotsav on Saturday as part of the celebrations for completing 118 years of train services.
“The event celebrated the 118-year legacy of the Matheran Light Railway,” said an official statement.
A grand exhibition was held at Matheran station, featuring both physical and digital displays, providing visitors with insights into the history and heritage of the line, it said.
Heritage items in exhibition
Original heritage and existing rolling stock, including Steam Loco 794B, 4-Wheeler Bogie Flat Rail (BFR) wagon, DHR bogie, and Matheran Light Railway bogie.
Heritage items such as station staff badges, pointsmen belts, hand bells, wooden cash boxes, measuring scales, signalling lamps, oil cans, and water tumblers.
Visitors experienced virtual tour of the Neral-Matheran line. Pic/Special Arrangement
Virtual tour of the Neral-Matheran line using VR Oculus glasses offering 360-degree visuals.
Memorabilia including diaries, coffee mugs, T-shirts, and key chains were available as souvenirs.
The exhibition, open from 10:00 hrs to 17:00 hrs, drew over 200 visitors, including passengers, tourists, vacationers, and local residents.
Neral-Matheran Light Railway`s history and services
Construction of the Neral-Matheran Narrow Gauge line began in 1904 and opened to traffic in 1907. Central Railway operates trains on the winding line from Neral to Matheran. The line is closed during monsoons for safety, but shuttle services between Aman Lodge and Matheran have been running since 29 September 2012.
Currently, Central Railway runs — 4 daily services between Neral-Matheran-Neral, 16 services between Aman Lodge-Matheran-Aman Lodge (12 daily and 4 special weekend services).
In November 2025, a total of 38,164 passengers travelled on these routes, generating Rs. 29.18 lakhs in revenue.
Central Railway has introduced refurbished coaches. Pic/Special Arrangement
Upgraded coaches enhance passenger experience
Central Railway has introduced refurbished coaches with improved interiors including vintage colour scheme on the exterior, wooden-finish false ceilings and interior panels, PVC flooring replaced with wooden finish, Rexine leather seats in brown and luggage rakes in first-class coaches.
These upgrades aim to provide a comfortable and scenic ride, allowing passengers to enjoy the natural beauty of Matheran while riding the famous toy train.
Promoting tourism
By improving facilities and promoting the heritage railway, Central Railway is enhancing the tourist experience and contributing to the local economy, offering both tourism and employment opportunities.
