Chennai to Ooty by the Nilgiri toy train: how it works

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is one of three Indian hill railways listed together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Riding it is the most memorable way to arrive in Ooty, and it connects well with an overnight train from Chennai.

The route

The line runs from Mettupalayam, at the foot of the Nilgiris, through Coonoor to Udhagamandalam (Ooty). The steep section between Mettupalayam and Coonoor uses a rack-and-pinion system, unusual in India, and the train climbs through tunnels, over bridges and past tea estates. Uphill, the full journey takes roughly five hours, with a stop at Coonoor.

Getting from Chennai to Mettupalayam

An overnight train runs from Chennai Central to Mettupalayam and is timed to connect with the morning departure of the toy train. Alternatively, travel to Coimbatore by train or air and drive about an hour to Mettupalayam.

Booking

• Toy train seats are limited and sell out early, especially in April, May and holiday weekends.
• Book through the official railway booking channels as soon as reservations open.
• The return journey downhill runs in the afternoon. Many travellers ride uphill by train and return by road to save time.

Which section to ride if you are short of time

The most scenic and unusual part is between Mettupalayam and Coonoor. If you are staying in Ooty and cannot ride the whole line, a short ride between Ooty and Coonoor gives a taste of the railway, with shorter journey time.

If you cannot get seats

The drive up the Kallar ghat road from Mettupalayam takes about two to three hours with 36 hairpin bends and good views. It is a fine alternative, and we always plan a road fallback in case train seats are unavailable.

Tips

• Sit on the right side going uphill for many of the valley views (it varies along the route).
• Carry snacks and water; facilities on board are basic.
• Motion sickness is rare on the train but common on the ghat road; carry medication if needed.

See our Train journeys page and Best time to visit Ooty and Kodaikanal from Chennai.