Discovering Nilgiri Mountain Railways: A Journey on South India's Charming Toy Train
The Nilgiri Mountain Railways, South India's exclusive Rack Railway, operates trains between Mettupalayam and Ooty. These services are affectionately dubbed "Toy Trains." Each journey uphill to Ooty requires approximately 4.5 hours, with an equivalent duration for the descent to the foothill.
Descending from Ooty on one of the steepest tracks in the region offers passengers a remarkable experience. Along its route, the Toy Train stops at Coonoor—an essential waypoint—& pauses at three additional stations for water refills. After leaving Lovedale, it completes its ascent, delivering joyful tourists to their destination.
The Ministry of Railways is responsible for maintaining this train. During the peak tourist season, as many as four trains operate in each direction daily. In recognition of its cultural significance, UNESCO has designated the Toy Train as a World Heritage Site. Although the ministry has implemented a fully computerized ticketing system, tickets for these trains are still issued manually to retain & share its historical ambiance with travelers.
Guests are encouraged to embark on a journey aboard the Toy Train to fully appreciate nature in its purest form. This unique travel option presents an unmatched opportunity to explore and enjoy the serene landscapes of this region.