Explore homestays, dig into some art along way
MUMBAI:THE journey to Matheran is set to get more exciting with the state and the Central Railway (CR) planning homestays, depiction of local art and culture, and construction of sunset points for tourists along the way.
In a meeting on August 14, major infrastructure developments were planned for Jumapatti, Water pipe, Aman Lodge and Matheran stations, along the lines of the Kalkashimla toy trains. It was decided that homestays will be made at locals’ places for tourists. There will also be provisions for showcasing art, culture and history along the railway lines against the backdrop of ‘Magnetic Maharashtra’. Sunset points will also be made in Matheran.
Tourists will be allowed to hop on and off from the toy trains between Neral and Matheran to explore the area. “The area between Neral and Matheran will be developed and will showcase the culture and history of Maharashtra and India,” said Vijay Kumar Gautam, principle secretary, tourism and cultural affairs department. Locals in and around the hill station will be trained in soft skills. “A final analysis will be made in three months,” he said. The coaches of the toy trains will also be different with AC and vistadome coaches on the cards.
CR is also considering separate luxury saloon coaches. “The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has been asked to decide on operation of special trains and feasibility of saloon coaches,” said Gautam. A three-member committee, including officials from department of tourism, CR and JJ School of Arts will decide on final changes along the route.