Introduction
When it comes to India's iconic railways, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway stands out as a marvel of engineering and a testament to India's rich railway heritage. In this blog, we will embark on a journey through the picturesque Nilgiri Mountains, exploring the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, its history, the breathtaking landscapes it traverses, and the unique experiences it offers.
History of Nilgiri Mountain Railway
The first plans for a mountain railway from Mettupalayam to the Nilgiri Hills were made in 1854, but construction and installation of the line was not completed until 45 years later. The line opened in 1899 and was initially operated by the Madras Railway Company. It was extended to Ooty in 1908 by the South Indian Railway Company. The railway is well-maintained and operates year-round, even during the monsoon season by southern Railway i.e one of the zone of Indian railway.
Where is Nilgiri Mountain Railway
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) is a 45.88-kilometer (28-mile) meter-gauge railway in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. It is the only rack & pinion railway in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why Nilgiri Mountain Railway is popular
The NMR is also known for its scenic beauty. The train passes through lush forests, tea plantations, and waterfalls. The NMR is a popular tourist destination, and it is also used by locals to travel between Mettupalayam and Ooty. The railway is well-maintained and operates year-round, even during the monsoon season.
The NMR is a unique and iconic railway that is a must-see for any visitor to the Nilgiris. It is a testament to the engineering ingenuity of the British engineers who built it over a century ago.
ALSO READ: Heritage Train Schedule
Best season to visit Nilgiri Mountain Railway
The best time to travel on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway is during the winter months of October to June. The weather is pleasant during this time, with clear skies, blooming flowers, and a refreshing nip in the air.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the weather conditions on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway during each season:
- Summers: The days are hot, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. The heat is not as oppressive as in other parts of southern India, due to the high altitude. The nights are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 15 degrees Celsius.
- Monsoon: The monsoon season brings unpredictable rains, which can cause delays to train services. The temperatures during the monsoon season are generally mild, ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.
- Winter: The winter months are the most popular time to travel on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The weather is pleasant, with clear skies and blooming flowers. The temperatures during the day range from 10 to 23 degrees Celsius, and the nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 5 degrees Celsius.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line
- The NMR is unique in its use of a rack and pinion system to help trains climb the steep grades.
- The rack is a third rail that runs along the center of the track and has teeth that engage with the pinion on the locomotive. This allows the locomotive to grip the track and climb the steep slopes.
- The NMR climbs from Mettupalayam (elevation 330 meters) to Ooty (elevation 2,200 meters) on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. The average gradient is 1 in 24.5, with the steepest section having a gradient of 1 in 23.
How to reach Nilgiri Mountain Railway
To reach the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR), you can take one of the following modes of transportation:
By train: The nearest railway station to the NMR is Mettupalayam Railway Station (MTM). It is located about 40 kilometers from Ooty, the starting point of the NMR. There are several trains that connect Mettupalayam to major cities in India, such as Chennai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore.
By bus: There are regular buses that connect Mettupalayam to Ooty. The bus journey takes about 2 hours.
Buses to Ooty from Mettupalayam.
By car: Mettupalayam is well-connected to major cities in India by road. The drive from Coimbatore to Mettupalayam takes about 2 hours. Once you reach Mettupalayam, you can take an autorickshaw or taxi to the NMR station. The NMR station is located in the heart of Mettupalayam town.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway Route
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) route is a 46-kilometer (28-mile) meter-gauge railway that climbs from Mettupalayam (elevation 330 meters) to Ooty (elevation 2,200 meters) on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats in India. The route is known for its scenic beauty, as it passes through lush forests, tea plantations, and waterfalls. It also crosses 250 bridges and 16 tunnels.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the NMR route:
- Mettupalayam: The starting point of the NMR route is Mettupalayam, a town in the foothills of the Nilgiri Hills.
- Kallar: The first stop on the NMR route is Kallar, a small village located about 10 kilometers from Mettupalayam. Kallar is known for its scenic beauty and its pleasant climate.
- Lovingdale: The next stop on the NMR route is Lovingdale, a beautiful hill station located about 20 kilometers from Mettupalayam. Lovingdale is known for its lush forests, tea plantations, and waterfalls.
- Wellington: The next stop on the NMR route is Wellington, a cantonment town located about 25 kilometers from Mettupalayam. Wellington is known for its military history and its pleasant climate.
- Coonoor: The next stop on the NMR route is Coonoor, a popular hill station located about 30 kilometers from Mettupalayam. Coonoor is known for its scenic beauty, its tea plantations, and its chocolate factories.
- Ooty: The final stop on the NMR route is Ooty, the capital of the Nilgiris district. Ooty is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, its lakes, and its gardens. The NMR route is a beautiful and scenic journey that is well worth taking. It is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Nilgiri Hills.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway Booking
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) is a popular tourist destination in India, and tickets can sell out quickly, especially during the peak season. It is therefore advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season.
There are two ways to book tickets for the NMR:
- Online: You can book tickets online through the Indian Railways website or through third-party websites.
- At the station: You can also book tickets at the station on the day of travel, but it is important to arrive early, as tickets may sell out quickly.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ticket Price
There are two classes of travel on the NMR - First Class and Second Class.
| Class | Mettupalayam to Ooty | Ooty to Mettupalayam |
|---|---|---|
| First Class | INR 1100 for adults, INR 650 for children | INR 1100 for adults, INR 650 for children |
| Second Class | INR 800 for adults, INR 500 for children | INR 800 for adults, INR 500 for children |
Nilgiri Mountain Railway Timings
Timings of NMR trains are as follows:
| Train No. | Train Name | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56136 | Mettupalayam-Ooty MG Passenger | Mettupalayam | 7:10 AM - Ooty 12:00 PM |
| 56137 | Ooty-Mettupalayam MG Passenger | Ooty | 2:00 PM - Mettupalayam 5:35 PM |
Q. How can I book tickets for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway?
A.To book tickets for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, you can visit the official Indian Railways website or visit the local railway station.
Q. What is the best time to visit the Nilgiri Mountain Railway?
A.The best time to visit is during the summer months, from March to June, when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are lush and green.
Q. Are there any special packages for tourists on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway?
A.Yes, the railway offers various tourist packages that include guided tours and additional amenities. Check with the railway authorities for more details.
Q. Can I bring my own food on board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway?
A.Yes, you can bring your own food, but there are also onboard dining options offering local cuisine.
Q. Is photography allowed on the train?
A.Yes, photography is allowed, and the scenic journey provides ample opportunities for stunning photos.
