History
This narrow-gauge train was built by the British in the early 20th century. The train was originally used to transport tea from the Nilgiri plantations to the coast but has since become a popular tourist attraction. The train operates daily and covers a distance of around 46 km from Mettupalayam to Ooty.
Journey
The journey from Mettupalayam to Ooty takes about five hours and passes through 16 tunnels, over 250 bridges, and through picturesque scenery in southern India. The train climbs a steep gradient of 1 in 12.5, which means that for every 12.5 metres it travels forward, it climbs one meter upward. This gradient is one of the steepest in Asia, and it's astounding to see the little train chug up the hillside. The train will stop at Coonoor station and the journey from Coonoor to Ooty is about 1 hour.
Know The Train
The train itself is a charming piece of history. It's a narrow-gauge train, meaning it is narrower than standard railway tracks. The coaches are small and quaint, with wooden seats and large windows offering unobstructed views of the hills. The Toy Train from Coonoor to Ooty is also fitted with a special brake system that uses water to slow the train down on steep gradients.
Scenery
As the train chugs along, you will be treated to stunning views of the Nilgiri Mountains. The train passes through dense forests, over rushing streams, and past rolling hills covered in tea plantations. The scenery gets more beautified during the monsoon seasons when the hills are covered in fog, and the streams below swell with rainwater.
Things to Remember
This train is very popular, and tickets can sell out quickly. It's a good idea to book your tickets in advance. The train can be quite slow, especially on steep gradients, so be prepared for a leisurely journey. The train can get quite crowded, especially during peak season, so be prepared to share your space with other travellers.