Are you ready for a train ride like no other? Hop on board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, affectionately known as the “Toy Train” because of its charmingly small size, perfect for the little ones. But don’t let the nickname fool you – this train is a serious feat of engineering, taking you on a scenic journey through the rolling hills and lush forests of Tamil Nadu.
The ride covers a distance of 46 kilometers and lasts about 5 hours, so make sure to bring some snacks and drinks for the journey. You’ll chug along the track, passing through quaint little hill stations like Coonoor and Lovedale, where locals will wave at you with a warm smile.
But don’t get too comfortable in your seat just yet – the train will take you through pitch-dark tunnels, sharp bends, and thickly forested stretches, making for an exciting ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat. And let’s not forget about the stunning panoramic views of the verdant meadow highlands that will be waiting for you outside your window.
What makes this train ride extra special is that it’s part of India’s rich heritage. The tracks were laid down by the British Indian administration back in 1908, and the train still uses locomotives from over 50 and 80 years ago. That’s right, you’ll be riding on the oldest x-class locomotives still in use!
And if that’s not impressive enough, UNESCO has recognized the Nilgiri Mountain Railway as a World Heritage Site, along with the other Mountain Railways of India. So, not only will you be taking a fun and scenic train ride, but you’ll also be experiencing a piece of history.
When it comes to choosing your seat, we highly recommend going for the first-class option. There are only 16 seats available, so it might be tough to snag one, but trust us, it’s worth it for the priceless experience. But if you miss out, don’t worry – there are second sitting and unreserved categories available too, with a total of 160 seats.
To get to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, you’ll need to make your way to the Mettupalayam Railway Station, which is a junction between the broad gauge and the toy train. You can catch the Nilgiri Express train from Chennai or Coimbatore to Mettupalayam, or you can take a cab or local bus from Coimbatore. The train departs at 7:10 AM and arrives at Ooty at 12:00 PM, and departs Ooty at 2:00 PM and arrives back at Mettupalayam at 5:35 PM.
So what are you waiting for? Come join us on a magical journey through the Nilgiri Mountains on the Toy Train! Just make sure to bring your sense of adventure and a big smile.