Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a charming railway in Tamil Nadu, India, offering breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Mountain Railways of India. The railway covers a distance of 46 kilometers, connecting Mettupalayam to Ooty, and is known for its unique rack and pinion system which helps the train climb the steep gradients.

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 Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Tamil Nadu, India

  • Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
  • Nearest Railway Station: Mettupalayam Railway Station
  • Nearest Bus Stop: Ooty Bus Stand
  • Nearest Metro Station: Not applicable
  • Cab Availability: Yes

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

The ideal time to visit is during the following months:

MarchAprilOctoberNovember

Top Attractions Nearby Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Tamil Nadu, India

  • Ooty Botanical Gardens2 km
  • Doddabetta Peak10 km
  • Pykara Lake20 km
  • Emerald Lake25 km
  • Avalanche Lake28 km
  • Mudumalai National Park40 km
  • Bandipur National Park45 km

Travel Vlogs

Top Itineraries to Plan your visit of Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Most Popular Hotels and Resorts Near Nilgiri Mountain Railway

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Top Things to do at Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Slide 1

Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at the intricate architecture and vibrant sculptures of this historic Hindu temple in Madurai.

Slide 2

Cruise on the Backwaters of Kanyakumari

Experience tranquility and enjoy the scenic beauty while cruising the serene backwaters of Kanyakumari.

Slide 3

Explore Mahabalipuram

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient rock-cut temples and stunning shore landscapes.

Slide 4

Witness the Scenic Beauty of Ooty

Explore the lush greenery, tea gardens, and enjoy a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

Slide 5

Attend the Chennai Music Festival

Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of Carnatic music at this prestigious cultural festival.

Slide 6

Explore the Tea Museum in Coonoor

Learn about the tea-making process and enjoy sampling different varieties of tea.

Slide 7

Trek in the Kolli Hills

Enjoy trekking through lush landscapes and witness the breathtaking Agaya Gangai waterfalls.

Slide 8

Explore the Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Visit this iconic structure in Kanyakumari offering panoramic views of where three oceans meet.

Slide 9

Relax on Marina Beach

Unwind on one of the longest beaches in the world, perfect for a peaceful evening stroll.

Slide 10

Explore the French Quarter in Pondicherry

Walk through the charming streets and relish the French colonial architecture and cafes.

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Top Shopping Ideas during Nilgiri Mountain Railway visit

Slide 1

Kanchipuram Silk Sarees

Renowned for their rich silk and intricate designs, Kanchipuram sarees are a must-buy when visiting Tamil Nadu.

Renowned for their rich silk and intricate designs, Kanchipuram sarees are a must-buy when visiting Tamil Nadu.

Slide 2

Tanjore Paintings

Traditional South Indian paintings known for their rich colors and surface richness, using gold foil.

Traditional South Indian paintings known for their rich colors and surface richness, using gold foil.

Slide 3

Chettinad Cotton Sarees

Handwoven sarees with bold colors and traditional designs, ideal for casual and festival wear.

Handwoven sarees with bold colors and traditional designs, ideal for casual and festival wear.

Slide 4

Poompuhar Handicrafts

A range of traditional handicrafts such as wooden carvings, bronzes, and other decorative arts available at Poompuhar outlets.

A range of traditional handicrafts such as wooden carvings, bronzes, and other decorative arts available at Poompuhar outlets.

Slide 5

Madurai Malli

Famous Madurai jasmine, known for its fragrance and used in garlands and religious ceremonies.

Famous Madurai jasmine, known for its fragrance and used in garlands and religious ceremonies.

Slide 6

Mahabalipuram Stone Sculptures

Intricately crafted stone sculptures depicting mythological themes, available in Mahabalipuram.

Intricately crafted stone sculptures depicting mythological themes, available in Mahabalipuram.

Slide 7

Chennai's Pondy Bazaar

A bustling local market in Chennai offering a wide range of products including clothes, accessories, and electronics.

A bustling local market in Chennai offering a wide range of products including clothes, accessories, and electronics.

Slide 8

Coimbatore's Town Hall

A popular shopping area known for textiles, jewelry, and traditional South Indian goods.

A popular shopping area known for textiles, jewelry, and traditional South Indian goods.

Slide 9

Nachiarkoil Brass Lamps

Traditional brass lamps with intricate designs, crafted in the Nachiarkoil region, representing Tamil Nadu’s rich brass art.

Traditional brass lamps with intricate designs, crafted in the Nachiarkoil region, representing Tamil Nadu’s rich brass art.

Travel Tips

  • Stay Hydrated - The climate in Tamil Nadu can be hot and humid, so always carry water to avoid dehydration.
  • Use Prepaid Taxis - Opt for prepaid taxi services at airports and stations to ensure fair pricing.
  • Respect Temple Customs - Remove shoes and dress modestly when visiting temples in Tamil Nadu.
  • Beware of Scams - Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
  • Book Train Tickets in Advance - Tamil Nadu's trains can get booked quickly; plan and book your journeys early.
  • Respect Tribal Culture - Many areas are home to indigenous tribes; always seek permission before taking photographs.
  • Emergency Numbers - Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers, including police and medical services.
  • Use Government Buses - State-run buses are affordable and can be an efficient way to travel between cities.
  • Try Local Cuisine - Embrace the flavors of Tamil cuisine, but inquire about spice levels if you're sensitive to spicy food.
  • Avoid Unlit Areas - Stick to well-lit and busy areas at night to ensure personal safety.