Ooty toy train guide
INTRODUCTION:
Hello all, you may already scrolled n number blogs in this same content, but this blog make you feel special, just stick to the end with me, you’ll know even more better info from this, Ok now let’s start knowing about the iconic of Nilgiri Mountain Railway, to enjoy this blog, imagine the place and start reading it.
HISTORY:
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway(NMR), popularly called as Ooty toy train by native peoples and tourist peoples, is built to connect the route of Mettupalayam with Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in the British period.
When:
The construction was started way back in 1891 and was completed by 1908. It takes almost 2 decades to complete this system, because there are different climate changes.
Why:
In the initial period of 1800s this toy train was introduced for white peoples to escape from the summer to hill station Ooty but why when there is road transport then why they want terrain transport, well due to steep terrain and dense forests and for safety precautions this Ooty toy train developed.
What made it special:
The train soak between the dense forest, tea farm, travelling through over bridges and tunnels and viewpoints in multiple locations and more special is this Ooty train is running in water, yes it is steam engine which given us unexplainable feel while in a ride and now we had diesel toy train from Mettupalayam to Ooty one more is it not typical track system like other tracks it uses the rack and pinion system likewise the bicycle system which is one of the unique feature in global railway system and especially in Indian railway system and importantly in Tamilnadu and this toy train approved by UNESCO in 2005 as world heritage site for its historical and its for nature, and it is recognized as a mountain railways of India.
What is UNESCO:
UNESCO is the global organization which works to save the places, protecting the nature value of that location, when the particular place is listed in UNESCO that place is considered has a world heritage site in detail meaning, if the place or a (thing) recognized and listed in the UNESCO (thing) its is need to preserved for future generations, so that how the nilgiri mountain train is listed in UNESCO it stands for united-nations-educational-scientific and cultural-organization.
DETAILS ABOUT TRAIN:
Why it is named as Ooty toy train:
Since the train is running through tunnels, running narrow areas, passing over bridges, the color tone of the train. Even though it is a real train, people are likely to call it a toy train, especially among the kids, it is one of best memorable experience for any age group of peoples, that's the reason it's addressed as a Ooty toy train, even its official name is nilgiri mountain railway.
Station between Mettupalayam and Ooty:
The Ooty Toy Train runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty, passing through scenic hill stations in the Nilgiris. Key stops include Coonoor, Wellington, Aravankadu, Ketti, and Lovedale before reaching Ooty (Udhagamandalam). Among these, Coonoor is a major station where many tourists board the train to enjoy the most beautiful stretch of the journey.
Duration time:
The complete journey of the Ooty Toy Train, from Mettupalayam to Ooty, covers a distance of about 46 kilometers and takes approximately 5 hours. The train moves at a slow and steady pace, passengers allowed to take photos of scenic view by (thing) from train for some span of minutes, If you're looking for a short ride or only want to experience the most scenic part of the ride, you can board from Coonoor, which is a major station on the route. The journey from Coonoor to Ooty is only 18 kilometers and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Altitude gain and number of tunnels, bridges, curves:
The Ooty Toy Train climbs from Mettupalayam (326 meters) to Ooty (2,203 meters), gaining nearly 1,877 meters in altitude. Along the journey, the train passes through 16 tunnels, crosses over 250 bridges, and navigates more than 200 sharp curves.
Types of classes:
The Nilgiri mountain railway generally offers 2 classes which is First Class, Second Class and there is one more class available to travel in ooty toy train, which is general class, first class is the most comfortable with cushioned seats, large windows, to ensure the tourists need to have relaxed journey, as per sitting comfortable, ticket fare is premium too, so get ready for that, and with second class with basic seating with wooden benches, a soft note, not consider it as a regular second class ticket, you need to reserve the tickets for this too before the travel in toy train, don’t keep the expectation to sit in general class, the reason is, it usually crowded and not guaranteed is seat available, you need to stand in complete travel time, reservation always advisable for peaceful travel and for the scenery in ooty toy train.
Arrival and Departure of train:
Mettupalayam to Udagamandalam
Coonoor to Udagamandalam
Coonoor to Udagamandalam - Special trains
How to Book Tickets:
Tickets for the Ooty Toy Train can be booked in four main ways. The most convenient method is through the IRCTC website or mobile app, where you can choose your travel date, class, and complete payment online. You can also book tickets directly at the railway stations like Mettupalayam, Coonoor, or Ooty, but it's best to go early as seats are limited, especially in peak seasons. Another option is booking through authorized travel agencies, which often include the toy train ride in their Ooty tour packages. Ticket prices vary, with First Class around ₹600, Second Class ₹295, and Unreserved about ₹175. And final way is booking via tatkal but make sure you need to watch like a eagle cause only 14 tickets only available generally it will open daily at 10 am and closes at ( ) plan prior is highly recommended for a smooth experience.
What is fare for each individual and kids:
The ticket fares for the Ooty Toy Train vary based on the route and class. For the full journey from Mettupalayam to Ooty, the First Class fare is around ₹700 for adults and ₹450 for children. In Second Class, adults pay about ₹395, while children are charged around ₹265. For Coonoor and Ooty, First Class costs approximately ₹450 for adults and ₹280 for children, and Second Class is around ₹250 for adults and ₹150 for children. These fares are subject to change, so it's best to check the latest prices on the IRCTC website for toy train or at the station before booking.
Diesel train:
The Toy Train now mostly uses diesel engines, especially between Coonoor and Ooty, for better speed and maintenance. However, steam engines are still used on special occasions and during peak tourist seasons to keep the heritage experience alive.
What's it used as before toy train:
Before becoming a tourist attraction, the Ooty Toy Train was built by the British to transport officials and goods between the plains and Ooty. It played a key role in moving tea, coffee, and supplies from plantations. Over time, its scenic route and heritage value made it a popular tourist experience.
Running in water:
The traditional steam engine used in the Ooty Toy Train runs by using water and firewood. Water is heated in a boiler using firewood or coal, and the steam produced powers the engine. The steam pressure moves pistons, which turn the wheels of the train. Because of this, steam engines need frequent water refills, so the train stops at certain stations like Hillgrove to refill water. This is part of what gives the ride its slow, steady pace and old-fashioned charm.
Scenic Highlights of the Journey:
The Ooty Toy Train offers some of the most beautiful views in South India. As the train climbs through the Nilgiri Hills, you can see lush green valleys, tea plantations, dense forests, misty mountains, and flowing waterfalls. You’ll pass over high bridges, go through dark tunnels, and see small hillside villages and wildlife along the way. The stretch between Coonoor and Ooty is especially scenic, with sharp curves and panoramic views that are perfect for photography.
Which side seat is best to see the scenic:
When traveling from Mettupalayam to Ooty, sit on the left side of the train to enjoy the best views of valleys, waterfalls, tea gardens, and mountains. On the way back from Ooty to Mettupalayam, the right side of the train has the best scenery. So, for the most beautiful views, choose the left side going up and the right side coming down.
Best time to go on Ooty toy train:
The best time to enjoy the Ooty Toy Train is from October to March, when the weather is cool and clear, perfect for sightseeing. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains and slippery tracks. Peak holiday seasons like April-May and December-January are crowded, so book tickets early. Traveling during the recommended months ensures a comfortable ride with beautiful views.
Unknown things:
There’s a locomotive shed in Coonoor where the old steam engines are stored and maintained. It’s not open to the public officially, but with permission or a local guide, you might get a closer look at how these vintage engines work. Many visitors skip the small but charming Nilgiri Railway Museum near Mettupalayam station, which showcases old railway tools, models, and the story behind the train’s construction. Also in quieter months, especially early mornings, you might spot bison, peacocks, and even elephants from the train, particularly in the dense forest areas between Kallar and Hillgrove.
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