Ooty, nestled in the breathtaking Nilgiri Hills of southern India, is a popular hill station renowned for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. You might be a nature enthusiast. Otherwise, you might be an adventure seeker. Otherwise, you might be simply looking for a serene getaway, Ooty has something for everyone. Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to understand the different modes of transportation available. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to reach Ooty by train, flight, bus, or car, providing you with the necessary information to plan your trip effectively. You can also consider car rental in chennai to plan a trip to Ooty.
How To Reach Ooty by Different Modes?
How to Reach Ooty by Train?
Ooty is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore. Not only from Bangalore, the hill station is well-connected to other major Indian cities by rail. The nearest railway station is Mettupalayam, situated approximately 40 kilometres from Ooty.
From Mettupalayam, you can board the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers a picturesque and memorable journey. The toy train ride from Mettupalayam to Ooty takes around five hours, traversing through lush green valleys, tea plantations, and beautiful bridges. A ride by this train is one of the best things to do in Ooty.
It is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the train can get crowded. It is better to check for mountain train availability of tickets three months before your date of journey. The reason is that there is a heavy demand to book a ticket for this train. Even though the train journey from Mettupalayam to Ooty takes a longer time compared to the bus journey, people choose this mode mainly for the enthralling experience.
From Chennai:
If you are travelling from Chennai, the Nilgiri Express is the only train that connects Chennai and Mettupalayam. However, you can find many trains like Cheran Express, Intercity Express and Coimbatore Express that travel between Chennai and Coimbatore. After reaching Coimbatore, you can hire a taxi or you can take a government or private bus to reach Ooty, which is located around 86 km away from Coimbatore.
From Bangalore:
If you are wondering how to reach Ooty by train from Bangalore, you do not have direct trains. You will have to catch a train to Coimbatore as many trains connect Bangalore and Coimbatore. After reaching Coimbatore, you can travel to Ooty by road. Otherwise, if you get a ticket to travel by hill train, you can reach Mettupalayam from Coimbatore to catch the toy train.
From Mumbai:
If you are travelling from Mumbai to reach Ooty, you can take the Thane Express and can get down at Tiruppur or Coimbatore. From thereon, you can catch the Nilgiri Express that travels from Chennai to reach Mettupalayam. From Mettupalayam, you can take the toy train. Otherwise, you can travel by road from Mettupalayam to Ooty.
How to Reach Ooty by Flight?
If you prefer air travel, the nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities across India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ooty, which is approximately 90 kilometres away.
The journey from Coimbatore to Ooty by road takes around three hours and offers scenic views of the Western Ghats. Several airlines operate regular flights to Coimbatore, making it a convenient option for travellers coming from different parts of the country.
So, irrespective of whether you travel from Chennai, Mumbai or Bangalore or any other city and wish to know how to reach Ooty by flight, you should catch a flight to Coimbatore from your city. From thereon, you can travel by road to reach Ooty. On your way to Ooty by road, you can cover some attractions in Connoor, which is one of the best places to visit near Ooty.
How to Reach Ooty by Bus?
Ooty has a well-developed bus network connecting it to various cities in Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states. The Tamil Nadu State Road Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates regular bus services to Ooty from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Mysore, and Coimbatore.
The journey duration varies depending on the distance, but buses are generally a cost-effective option for budget travellers. You can choose from regular buses or luxury coaches based on your preferences and comfort level. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. A bus journey is undoubtedly an affordable option if you wish to know how to reach Ooty affordably. Nevertheless, it will be a bit tedious as compared to train and flight trips.
How to Reach Ooty by Car?
For those who prefer a more flexible and independent mode of travel, reaching Ooty by car is an excellent option. The hill station is well-connected by roads, offering a scenic drive through the picturesque Nilgiri Mountains. However, if you are traveling from another country overseas, your only options will be to rent a car when you get here or to ship a car.
On your way to Ooty, you can comfortably finish your dining at one of the best restaurants in Ooty, which is a bit hard in other modes of transportation. You can reach Ooty by car in the following ways:
- Bangalore to Ooty: The journey from Bangalore to Ooty takes approximately 6-7 hours, covering a distance of around 290 kilometres. You can take the NH275 route, which passes through Mysore and Nanjangud. You can find the best hotels in Ooty on your way and can stay in one of those hotels before even reaching Ooty to refresh yourself to start exploring places.
- Coimbatore to Ooty: If you are starting from Coimbatore, it is a 3-hour drive to Ooty, covering a distance of approximately 85 kilometres. The NH181 route is the most commonly used. When travelling from Coimbatore, you have two different routes to choose from. On one of these routes, you will pass via Coonoor, which is generally much more crowded. The other route is via Kothagiri, which will be less crowded but comparatively longer. Both routes will be scenic but the Kothagiri route is less polluted.
- Mysore to Ooty: The distance between Mysore and Ooty is around 125 kilometres, and the journey takes approximately 3-4 hours. The SH17 route offers a pleasant drive, showcasing the beauty of the Western Ghats. Mysore is connected to Ooty by well-laid roads and you will pass through Bandipur and Muthumalai Wildlife sanctuaries.
Before starting your journey, ensure that your vehicle is in good condition, especially if you plan to drive through hilly terrain. The roads to Ooty are well-maintained, but it’s essential to be cautious while navigating the hairpin bends and steep inclines. Additionally, parking facilities are available in Ooty, but it can get crowded during peak seasons, so plan accordingly.
Conclusion:
Now, you know how to reach Ooty by train, flight, bus, or car. Each offers different experiences and options to suit every traveller’s needs. The toy train ride from Mettupalayam is a nostalgic and scenic journey, while air travel provides convenience and saves time. Buses are a cost-effective mode of transport, and self-driving to Ooty allows you to enjoy the flexibility and freedom of exploring at your own pace. Consider the distance, travel time, budget, and personal preferences when choosing your mode of transport.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, Ooty promises a memorable vacation amidst nature’s beauty. My post on the 5-day Ooty itinerary might help you plan your exploration in Ooty if you have five days. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to immerse yourself in the charm of this captivating hill station. Happy travels!