1 September 2025 · 5 min read
The Ooty toy train (Nilgiri Mountain Railway) climbs over 2,200 m through tea estates, tunnels and pine forests. It's one of three UNESCO-listed mountain railways in India — and the only one with a true rack-and-pinion system on the Indian network.
Route options
- Mettupalayam → Ooty — the full scenic route (~5 hours, includes the steepest climbs)
- Coonoor → Ooty — the shorter scenic route (~90 minutes, no steam loco)
Timings (subject to change — confirm on IRCTC)
- Mettupalayam → Ooty: 7:10 AM – 12:00 PM
- Ooty → Mettupalayam: 2:00 PM – 5:35 PM
- Coonoor → Ooty: 10:40 AM & 12:35 PM
How to book on IRCTC
- Visit irctc.co.in or open the IRCTC Rail Connect app
- Search Mettupalayam (MTP) to Ooty (UAM) for the full route, or Coonoor (ONR) to Ooty (UAM) for the shorter ride
- Pick class — First Class for guaranteed window seat, General for cheaper
- Complete payment
- Counter tickets are also available at the station but sell out quickly
Tips
- Book 30–60 days ahead for weekends and peak season (Dec–Jan, Apr–May)
- Arrive 30 minutes before departure — boarding is platform-side
- Carry layers; the open windows get chilly above 1,800 m
- Sit on the right side travelling up for the best views