The Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few mountain railways in India, providing stunning views of the Nilgiri Hills. This picturesque train journey is known for its scenic landscape and steepest track in Asia. The railway connects the town of Mettupalayam to Ooty, covering a distance of about 46 kilometers, and features a unique blend of engineering and natural beauty.

Opening Hours

Open: 24 Hours

Close: Open all day

Closed on: Never

Entry Fees

Indian Visitors: ₹0

Foreign Visitors: ₹0

Children (Below 15 years): Free

How to Reach The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu, India

  • Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
  • Nearest Railway Station: Mettupalayam Railway Station
  • Nearest Bus Stop: Mettupalayam Bus Stand
  • Nearest Metro Station: N/A
  • Cab Availability: Available

Best time to visit The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu, India

The ideal time to visit is during the following months:

MarchAprilOctoberNovember

Top Attractions Nearby The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu, India

  • Ooty Lake3 km
  • Botanical Gardens2 km
  • Doddabetta Peak10 km
  • Mudumalai National Park30 km
  • Nilgiri Mountain Park15 km
  • Rose Garden2.5 km
  • Echo Rock6 km

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Top Things to do at The Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Slide 1

Ride the Scenic Train

Experience the breathtaking views of the Nilgiri hills as you ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Slide 2

Visit Ooty Lake

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Ooty Lake, surrounded by beautiful gardens and hills.

Slide 3

Explore Vegetable and Fruit Markets

Visit the local markets in Ooty to experience fresh produce and regional specialties.

Slide 4

Visit the Botanical Gardens

Stroll through the lush greenery of the Botanical Gardens, home to a diverse collection of plants and flowers.

Slide 5

Trek to Doddabetta Peak

Hike to the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills for stunning panoramic views and fresh air.

Slide 6

Visit the Tea Estates

Take a guided tour of the tea estates and learn about the tea-making process while enjoying tastings.

Slide 7

Explore the Rose Garden

Wander through the well-maintained Rose Garden, which features over 20,000 varieties of roses.

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Top Shopping Ideas during The Nilgiri Mountain Railway visit

Slide 1

Nilgiri Handicrafts

Explore a wide range of traditional handicrafts made by local artisans, including wooden toys, bamboo crafts, and handwoven baskets.

Explore a wide range of traditional handicrafts made by local artisans, including wooden toys, bamboo crafts, and handwoven baskets.

Slide 2

Ooty Market

Visit the bustling Ooty Market for fresh produce, homemade chocolates, and local spices. A perfect place to absorb local culture.

Visit the bustling Ooty Market for fresh produce, homemade chocolates, and local spices. A perfect place to absorb local culture.

Slide 3

Chirst Church Artifacts

Find unique artifacts and souvenirs from the historic Christ Church, including paintings and handicrafts inspired by British architecture.

Find unique artifacts and souvenirs from the historic Christ Church, including paintings and handicrafts inspired by British architecture.

Slide 4

Tea Estates Boutique

Shop for premium Nilgiri tea and tea-related products at local boutique stores nestled in tea estates.

Shop for premium Nilgiri tea and tea-related products at local boutique stores nestled in tea estates.

Slide 5

Kodaikanal Handloom

Discover vibrant handloom fabrics, including shawls, sarees, and other textiles made with natural dyes.

Discover vibrant handloom fabrics, including shawls, sarees, and other textiles made with natural dyes.

Slide 6

Elf in the Hills

A store specializing in handcrafted home décor, toys, and wooden crafts, perfect for unique gifts.

A store specializing in handcrafted home décor, toys, and wooden crafts, perfect for unique gifts.

Slide 7

Coonoor Market

A quaint market in Coonoor where you can find local produce, herbs, and handmade crafts from the region.

A quaint market in Coonoor where you can find local produce, herbs, and handmade crafts from the region.

Travel Tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Always keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings, especially at busy train stations.
  • Check the weather forecast before your trip, as the Nilgiri Mountains can have sudden changes in weather.
  • Book your tickets in advance to secure a spot and avoid last-minute hassles.
  • Engage with local vendors and farmers along the route to understand and appreciate the local culture.
  • Use the local buses or shared taxis for better connectivity and to experience the local way of life.
  • Taste local cuisine at roadside eateries to truly experience the flavors of Tamil Nadu.
  • Avoid traveling during monsoon season when heavy rains can affect visibility and safety.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle, as staying hydrated is crucial during travel through the mountains.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or rural areas.