The Ooty Toy Train Experience (2025): A Journey Through the Nilgiris

The train journey from Mettupalayam to Ooty is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering breathtaking views and a nostalgic ride through the Nilgiri hills. For an unforgettable journey, securing a seat during peak periods is crucial, as tickets sell out months in advance.

The Train Experience

The iconic Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) runs on a steam engine from Mettupalayam to Coonoor, giving passengers a chance to experience the warmth and power of a vintage locomotive up close. The train departs at 7:10 AM every day and is usually fully booked. If confirmed tickets are unavailable, a waiting list ticket might still be an option, depending on seat availability trends observed on third-party booking apps.

The journey is divided into two segments:

1. Mettupalayam to Coonoor – Operated by a historic steam engine, this stretch features stunning natural scenery, steep inclines, and multiple stops where passengers can step out and explore. The train requires frequent maintenance and water refills along this segment due to the climb.
2. Coonoor to Udagamandalam (Ooty) – This portion is powered by a diesel engine and passes through picturesque villages, lush forests, and tea plantations.

Before departure from each station, the train’s whistle echoes through the hills, adding to the nostalgic charm of the journey.

Station Stops & Onboard Facilities

The Ooty Toy Train makes multiple scenic stops where passengers can purchase tea and light snacks. Exploring the engine up close is a delight for railway enthusiasts. Each compartment has a dedicated guard responsible for safety and operations.

Major Stops on the Ooty Toy Train Route:

1. Mettupalayam (Starting point)
2. Kallar – Known for lush greenery and the first major ascent
3. Adderley – A scenic stop in the middle of the hills
4. Hillgrove – Water refilling and maintenance break
5. Runnymede – A small but charming halt
6. Coonoor – Midway point, change from steam to diesel engine
7. Wellington – Close to the Defence Staff College
8. Aravankadu – A quaint station amidst tea estates
9. Ketti – One of the most picturesque valleys in the Nilgiris
10. Lovedale – A peaceful stop before Ooty
11. Udagamandalam (Ooty) – Final destination

The stretch from Coonoor to Ooty offers views of small villages, roads, crossings, and mesmerizing landscapes. However, since this train runs on legacy compartments without electricity, modern amenities like air-conditioning, phone chargers, and fans are absent. Tunnel lights are powered only while passing through dark stretches.

Seating Options

The train has multiple seating categories:

• First-Class Chair Car: 32 cushioned seats with extra legroom but no air-conditioning.
• Second-Class Chair Car: Standard seating with variable designs depending on the train.

Ticket Availability & Booking Tips

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) tickets can be booked via IRCTC and third-party travel portals 45 days in advance. Getting a confirmed ticket is rare, but passengers can consider booking waiting list (WL) tickets based on travel patterns, weekday demand, off-peak periods, and holiday dates.

For last-minute travel, unreserved tickets are available at railway stations. However, passengers must queue as early as 2:00 AM to secure a seat on the 7:10 AM departure from Mettupalayam. Budget lodges are available near Mettupalayam Railway Station for families or travelers arriving at night.

Best Seats for Scenic Views

• Mettupalayam to Ooty: Choose a window seat on the opposite side of the platform at Mettupalayam for the best scenic views.
• Ooty to Mettupalayam: Opt for a seat on the side opposite to the Udagamandalam Railway Station platform.

Train Schedule & Ticket Prices (2025 Updated)

Below is the updated 2025 schedule of trains between Mettupalayam and Udagamandalam:

Train No	Route	Departure	Arrival	Class	Price (INR)
56136	Mettupalayam - Ooty	7:10 AM	12:00 PM	First Class	600
56136	Mettupalayam - Ooty	7:10 AM	12:00 PM	Second Class	295
56137	Ooty - Mettupalayam	2:00 PM	5:30 PM	First Class	600
56137	Ooty - Mettupalayam	2:00 PM	5:30 PM	Second Class	295

 

 

This 2025 enchanting journey through the Nilgiri hills is an unmissable experience for nature lovers and railway enthusiasts alike. Book your tickets in advance and prepare for a breathtaking ride through one of India’s most picturesque railway routes.