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Nilgiri toy train
The UNESCO-listed mountain railway climbs from Mettupalayam, at the foot of the Nilgiris, to Ooty.
What to expect
From Mettupalayam the train climbs to Coonoor on Asia's steepest railway track (1 in 12), using rack-and-pinion and X-class steam engines, then runs on to Ooty. Uphill takes about 4¾ hours.
- The ride
- 46 km in about 4½ hours, through 16 tunnels, over 250 bridges and round 208 curves
- When
- Leaves Mettupalayam at 7:10 am (as reported; check the current timetable)
- Good to know
- Book on IRCTC; for weekends and holidays book 2–3 months ahead. World Heritage Site since 2005.
Our tips
- Book early on IRCTC, especially for weekends.
- Ooty is much cooler than Coimbatore, so carry a layer.
Sources: Onmanorama · Wikipedia: Nilgiri Mountain Railway