Ooty’s Train Journey: A Must-Try Experience
The Ooty Train or NMR completed 125 years of service in July 2024. Besides the beautiful views of the Nilgiri Hills and tea estates, tourists also visit Ooty to experience the scenic railway tour. Here’s a look at what you can expect during the journey.
Glimpse into Areas Inaccessible by Road
The wonderful muddy soil, trees, and evergreen shrubs welcome you as soon as the train passes the Udagamandalam (Ooty) station. It plunges through farmland, forests, remote valleys, tea estates, and green hills. The slow speed ensures travelers enjoy the stunning surroundings. Houses painted in brown, beige, or muted shades keep your eyes glued. Overall, it passes through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges, and 208 curves.
A Mix of Modern and Old World Charm
The British Era 1,000 mm wide track has been conserved in most sections. Steam engine heads the Ooty Train during the Mettupalayam to Coonoor stretch on most days. And the diesel engine takes over from Coonoor to Ooty.
Diesel locomotives have replaced most of the steam ones. Carriages on most units have been either restored or replaced. But, they have retained an old vintage look and design, including large windows.
If you have an engineering background, the ABT (Rack and Pinion arrangement) might attract you. It is visible between tracks as soon as the train passes the Kallar station. The system helps the train climb the steep ascent.
From Serving Brits to Serving Indian Tourists
Initially, the heritage line connected Chennai to Ooty. And, was meant to ferry British officers visiting the hill station to spend a peaceful time. Today, it ferries Indian tourists.
Trains on both routes (Ooty and Coonoor, and Mettupalayam to Ooty) have the UNESCO World Heritage status. The heritage train completes the Ooty to Mettupalayam journey in 4.5 hours. On the other hand, it reaches from Ooty to Coonoor in one hour and ten minutes.
Proper Planning is Crucial
There are three passenger classes, first, second (2S), and unreserved or general (in some trains). The overall seating arrangement in 2C is much more comfortable. Ticket booking needs to be done two to three months prior if you wish to do it online.
Ticket rates from Udhagamandalam to Connor route are rupees 350 for first class and rupees 150 for 2S. The fare for first class on the Ooty to Mettupalayam route is Rs 600, and Rs 295 for 2S on IRCTC website.
After completing the scenic railway tour, you will need a good place to rest in Ooty, won’t you? Check the best accommodation options on HostMyTrips.