The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) is a railway in Tamil Nadu, India, built by the British in 1908, and is operated by the Southern Railway. It is a metre-gauge railway that runs through the picturesque and rugged mountains of the Nilgiri Hills, from Mettupalayam to Ooty (Udhagamandalam).
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is renowned for its unique rack and pinion track which is designed to climb steep gradient, and it is famous for its scenic beauty as it travels through lush forests and steep curves offering breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills. It is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Mountain Railways of India.
The journey covers approximately 46 kilometers (28.5 miles) and it takes around 5 hours to travel from Mettupalayam to Ooty.
The best time to take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway is from October to June when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clearer, offering better views of the landscapes.
Tourists can book tickets for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway through the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website or at the railway stations. It is advisable to book tickets in advance due to the popularity of the train ride among tourists.
Both steam and diesel locomotives are operated on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The steam-hauled trains are generally used for the morning service from Mettupalayam to Ooty, while diesel engines are used for the remaining services.
Yes, there are several stopovers of interest, including Coonoor, which is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris and known for its tea plantations, and various scenic spots where passengers can enjoy panoramic views and take photographs.
No, there isn't a specific luxury train service for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway; however, the train offers a unique and historic travel experience with basic comforts.
There are limited facilities for food and refreshments on the train, so passengers are advised to carry their own. However, there are brief stops along the route where one can buy local snacks.
Due to the heritage nature of the train and its carriages, accessibility for people with disabilities might be limited. However, it is recommended to check with the railway officials for any specific arrangements or updates in this regard.
