The Nilgiri Mountain Railway climbs over 2,200 m through tea estates, tunnels and pine forests — one of three UNESCO-listed mountain railways in India and the only one using a true rack-and-pinion system.
Route options
- Mettupalayam → Ooty — the full scenic route (~5 hours, steam loco on the steepest section)
- Coonoor → Ooty — the shorter ride (~90 min, no steam)
Timings (confirm on IRCTC)
- • Mettupalayam → Ooty — 7:10 AM to 12:00 PM
- • Ooty → Mettupalayam — 2:00 PM to 5:35 PM
- • Coonoor → Ooty — 10:40 AM & 12:35 PM
How to book on IRCTC
- Visit irctc.co.in or the IRCTC Rail Connect app
- Search Mettupalayam (MTP) → Ooty (UAM), or Coonoor (ONR) → Ooty (UAM)
- Pick First Class for guaranteed window seat, or General
- Complete payment — book 30–60 days ahead in peak season
- Arrive 30 minutes before departure
Local tips
- • Sit on the right side travelling up for the best views
- • Carry layers — windows are open, gets cool above 1,800 m
- • The Mettupalayam ride is the photogenic one; Coonoor ride is shorter and easier
Want us to book it for you?
Most of our packages include the toy-train ride (subject to availability).