UNESCO World Heritage Nilgiri Mountain Railway – heritage toy train between Mettupalayam, Coonoor and Ooty with tunnels, bridges & stunning tea garden views.
Main Timings*
Mettupalayam–Ooty 7:10 AM
Up train usually 7:10 AM–12:00 PM; down train from Ooty around 2:00 PM (check latest timetable).
Ooty–Coonoor
Multiple trips daily
Short toy train rides of ≈1 hr between Ooty & Coonoor (morning, noon & evening slots).
Ticket Classes
First, Second & General
Approx: FC from ₹600–₹1,100; 2S from ₹295–₹450 (route & quota dependent).
UNESCO Tag
Heritage Railway
Part of “Mountain Railways of India”, operating since early 1900s.
*Timings & fares are indicative and can change with season, maintenance blocks or special trains. Always re-check on IRCTC / railway enquiry before travel.
The Ooty Toy Train runs on the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) – a 46 km long hill railway that climbs from Mettupalayam (near Coimbatore) to Udhagamandalam (Ooty). Built during the British era and now operated by Southern Railway, it is the only rack-and-pinion railway in India and a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The route passes through tea estates, forests, deep valleys, stone bridges and tunnels. On the longer Mettupalayam–Ooty stretch, the train slowly climbs steep gradients with the help of a rack-rail system, while the Ooty–Coonoor section offers shorter, scenic toy train rides popular with families and day trippers.
UNESCO World Heritage Railway 46 km hill route Ooty–Coonoor & Mettupalayam–Ooty Classic photo & video shots
Morning “up” train around 7:10 AM from Mettupalayam, reaching Ooty close to 12:00 noon.
≈ 4.5 – 5 hours
Ooty → Mettupalayam
Afternoon “down” train around 2:00 PM from Ooty, reaching Mettupalayam around 5:30–5:40 PM.
≈ 3.5 – 4 hours
Ooty ↔ Coonoor (Short Toy Train)
Multiple short-distance trains daily – typically morning, midday & evening trips between Ooty and Coonoor (check latest schedule at station / IRCTC).
≈ 60 – 75 minutes one way
*Timings vary with railway timetable revisions, summer specials, maintenance blocks & weather conditions. During heavy rains or landslides, services can be cancelled or partially suspended – always confirm closer to your travel date.
Indicative Ticket Fare (Per Person)
Route
Class
Approx. Fare Range*
Mettupalayam ↔ Ooty (Full)
First Class
≈ ₹600 – ₹800 (₹1,470 Summer Special Train)
Mettupalayam ↔ Ooty (Full)
Second Class / Reserved
≈ ₹295 – ₹450 (₹965 Summer Special Train)
Ooty ↔ Coonoor
First Class
≈ ₹350 – ₹550 (depends on season & quota)
Ooty ↔ Coonoor
Second / General
≈ ₹150 – ₹350
Short Sections (Coonoor–Wellington / Ketti etc.)
General
Low fares, usually under ₹50 – used mainly by locals and budget travellers.
*Fares are indicative based on recent traveller data and public information. Dynamic pricing, special trains and quotas can change the exact amounts. For the latest fare and availability, always check directly on IRCTC or with railway enquiry before booking.
Ooty Toy Train Timetable (Nilgiri Mountain Railway)
Below is the current Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train timetable with train numbers, departure and arrival times between Mettupalayam, Coonoor and Ooty (Udagamandalam). Timings are based on the latest published railway schedule; Indian Railways may occasionally adjust them due to operations or weather.
Mettupalayam ↔ Ooty Hill Train (Main Nilgiri Mountain Railway)
Train No.
From → To
Departure
Arrival
Run Days
56136 / 06136
Mettupalayam (MTP) → Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM)
07:10
11:55
Runs daily (main morning “up” hill train)
56137 / 06137
Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM) → Mettupalayam (MTP)
14:00
17:35
Runs daily (afternoon “down” hill train)
Ooty → Coonoor Toy Train (Udagamandalam → Coonoor)
Train No.
From → To
Departure
Arrival
Remarks
56139
Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM) → Coonoor (ONR)
09:15
10:25
Morning passenger – very popular with tourists.
56142
Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM) → Coonoor (ONR)
12:15
13:20
Mid-day Ooty–Coonoor service.
56137
Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM) → Coonoor (ONR)
14:00
15:05
Part of the hill train towards Mettupalayam; many travellers get down at Coonoor.
56140
Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM) → Coonoor (ONR)
17:30
18:40
Evening toy train – good for those returning to Coonoor after Ooty sightseeing.
Coonoor → Ooty Toy Train (Coonoor → Udagamandalam)
Train No.
From → To
Departure
Arrival
Remarks
56141
Coonoor (ONR) → Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM)
07:45
09:05
Early-morning uphill toy train from Coonoor to Ooty.
56136
Coonoor (ONR) → Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM)
10:40
11:55
Continuation of the morning hill train from Mettupalayam.
56143
Coonoor (ONR) → Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM)
12:35
13:45
Mid-day Coonoor–Ooty passenger, good for half-day trips.
56138
Coonoor (ONR) → Ooty / Udagamandalam (UAM)
16:00
17:10
Evening uphill toy train back to Ooty.
Summer Special Trains (Seasonal – Typically April–June)
Summer special return service (operates only in vacation period).
Note: The above timetable is prepared to match the current Nilgiri Mountain Railway schedule. In case Southern Railway modifies timings or cancels services due to landslides / maintenance, same-day changes may not be reflected here.
Check Ooty Toy Train Seat Availability
Choose your from & to stations (Ooty / Coonoor / Mettupalayam), select the toy train and date, then click Check Seat Availability. We’ll show the next 6 days of availability in 2S class (General quota).
Pick From / To – matching toy trains will appear here.
IRCTC usually allows booking up to ~120 days in advance. If your date is beyond the booking window, IRCTC will return an error.
Route, Views & Experience
The full route runs from Mettupalayam (MTP) in the plains up to Udhagamandalam (UAM / Ooty), passing via stations like Coonoor, Wellington, Aravankadu, Ketti and Lovedale.
Expect tea gardens, shola forests, valley views, stone bridges and tunnels all along the way – photographers will find plenty of classic toy train frames.
The gradient is steep in parts, and you’ll hear the unique sound of the rack-and-pinion system at work on the lower sections.
The Ooty–Coonoor leg is shorter but iconic – ideal if you want the toy train experience without blocking half a day.
How to Book Ooty Toy Train Tickets
Online booking is usually available through the IRCTC website / app – search for “Nilgiri Mountain Railway” or use station codes like MTP (Mettupalayam), ONR (Coonoor) and UAM (Ooty).
For popular dates and seasons (April–June, weekends & holidays), tickets can sell out quickly – book well in advance, especially for First Class.
A limited number of seats / standing tickets are available at the station counters on the day, but these are subject to rush and long queues.
Carry a valid photo ID for reserved tickets. Reach the station at least 30–45 minutes before departure to locate your coach, take photos, and get help from station staff if needed.
Difference Between First Class and Second Class Seats
Many travellers are confused between First Class (FC) and Second Class / Reserved on the Ooty Toy Train. This comparison helps you choose the right option for your family and budget.
Feature
First Class (FC)
Second Class / Reserved (2S / General)
Seating Comfort
Cushioned seats, better back support and comparatively more leg room. More comfortable for elders, kids and longer rides (Mettupalayam–Ooty).
Basic seats or bench-style seating (sometimes partially cushioned). Comfort is okay for short rides like Ooty–Coonoor.
Coach Crowd Level
Usually less crowded with fixed reservations only. Quieter and more relaxed environment.
Can be more crowded, especially in season time. Some passengers may stand near doors in general coaches.
View & Windows
Good window seats, slightly better chance of getting a clear valley-side view if you book early and choose seats wisely.
Same route and scenery, but windows are often shared with more people. Still good for photos if you manage a window seat.
Fare
Higher fare, especially on the full Mettupalayam–Ooty stretch, but gives a more premium and comfortable feel.
Budget-friendly and ideal if you only want to experience the journey without spending much.
Best For
Families with kids, senior citizens, honeymoon couples and those who want a relaxed, less-crowded ride.
Budget travellers, students, backpackers and those taking short Ooty–Coonoor rides.
Coach layout and seat design can change slightly based on the rake in use and season. The above comparison is indicative to help you decide which class suits your comfort level and budget.
When IRCTC Tickets Are Sold Out – Alternative Options
During weekends, summer holidays and long weekends, Nilgiri Mountain Railway tickets on IRCTC get sold out very fast, especially in First Class. Here are some alternate, legal and safe options you can try.
1. Try a Different Stretch or Class If full Mettupalayam–Ooty First Class is sold out, check:
Shorter Ooty–Coonoor or Coonoor–Ooty segments on the same day.
Second Class / Reserved instead of First Class.
Nearby dates (a day before / after your original plan).
2. Check at the Station Booking Counter (Current Booking) A small quota of tickets may be released at Mettupalayam, Coonoor and Ooty stations on the day of journey or previous evening. Reach early, stand in queue and ask specifically for NMR / Toy Train tickets. Tickets are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.
3. Ask About Tourist / Special Quotas Occasionally, there may be tourist quota / special quota seats. Check directly at the counter and ask the booking clerk if any tourist quota seats are available for your train and date.
4. Use Authorised IRCTC Agents / RTSA Counters Some cities have authorised IRCTC agents or Rail Travellers Service Agents (RTSA) who book on the same IRCTC system. If you use an agent, make sure they are authorised (display board / licence) and always collect the IRCTC ticket print / SMS.
5. Look for Tourism Packages That Include the Train Sometimes IRCTC Tourism, state tourism or private tour operators offer fixed packages that already include Nilgiri Mountain Railway seats. These can be useful in season time when individual tickets are difficult.
6. Plan Ooty Sightseeing Even If Train Is Not Available In peak rush, you may not get toy train tickets for your exact date. You can still have a great Ooty trip with:
Private cab sightseeing (Doddabetta, Ooty Lake, gardens, viewpoints).
Photo stops at railway bridges / stations where the toy train passes (without boarding).
Travel2Ooty can help you design a backup plan in case toy train tickets don’t work out.
Travel2Ooty does not directly issue railway tickets. All train tickets are subject to IRCTC / Indian Railways rules. We help you plan cabs, hotels and sightseeing around your confirmed or tentative toy train bookings so that your trip is smooth, even in peak season.
What to Expect on the Ooty Toy Train (Complete Traveller Guide)
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is beautiful but very different from regular trains. This guide explains luggage rules, toilets, food availability, best seats for views, family comfort and what to expect on your journey.
Luggage Rules & Baggage Handling
Light luggage only – The toy train is narrow-gauge with very limited space. Avoid large trolley suitcases (28” / 32”).
Best to carry backpacks, cabin-size bags or duffel bags.
Overhead racks are small; luggage is usually placed below your seat or in the tiny space between seats.
There is no separate luggage van. If you have large luggage, shift it earlier via cab from Mettupalayam to Ooty.
For families, keep one bag with water, snacks, tissues and kids’ sweaters easily accessible.
Toilets on the Train
Only the Mettupalayam–Ooty long-distance trains sometimes have a basic toilet in select coaches.
Ooty–Coonoor / Coonoor–Ooty short-distance trains usually have no toilets.
Toilets at stations (Coonoor, Mettupalayam, Wellington, Lovedale) are available — use them before boarding.
Families with small kids should plan toilet breaks accordingly.
Food, Breakfast & Break Counters
There is no pantry car and no food service onboard.
Mettupalayam station has tea/coffee, idly, vada, buns, biscuits and small stalls.
Coonoor station has a larger refreshment area where you can get:
Tea, coffee, juices
Snacks & bakery items
Simple breakfast (in the mornings)
Carry your own snacks and water bottle.
Eating inside the coach is allowed, but avoid messy items since the coach is small.
Is the Toy Train Suitable for Families?
Yes — it is family-friendly, especially the 1 hr Ooty–Coonoor ride.
Kids enjoy the tunnels, bridges and sharp curves. First Class is best for:
Small kids (more space)
Elders (comfortable seating)
Second Class gets crowded in peak season; always keep kids close near doors.
Keep sweaters/jackets ready — the wind is cold near tunnels and open valley sections.
Best Side to Sit for the Scenic View
Valley-side changes depending on the direction of travel:
Route
Best Side for Views
Mettupalayam → Coonoor / Ooty
Right side – best valley, bridges and ghat views.
Ooty / Coonoor → Mettupalayam
Left side – same valley side in reverse direction.
Ooty ↔ Coonoor Short Ride
Both sides are good – frequent curves & greenery throughout.
Tip: If you booked early on IRCTC, try choosing seats on the valley side for your direction.
What to Expect (Realistic)
Slow scenic ride through tunnels, bridges, thick forests and steep cliffs.
Windows that open wide – perfect for photos and videos (but be careful while leaning out).
Sharp curves and loud braking sounds – part of the heritage engine system.
Short stops at stations that are ideal for quick pictures.
Seats are basic even in First Class – this is a heritage train, not a luxury coach.
Some crowding near doors for photos during peak season.
What Not to Expect
No AC or fans (natural cool air from the hills).
No pantry, no packaged meals like in long-distance trains.
No mobile charging ports at seats.
No modern “luxury train” comforts – this is a 1908-era mountain railway.
No fixed guarantee that your seat will face the valley side (depends on coach layout & seat number).
Overall: Expect a beautiful, slow, vintage mountain train experience. Not a luxury journey – but often the most memorable part of an Ooty trip.
Best Season & Which Stretch to Choose?
Season
Weather
Why Ride Now?
Tips
Dec–Feb
Cool & sometimes misty
Crisp views, chilly air and winter vibes.
Carry a jacket, cap & gloves, especially in morning departures.
Mar–May
Pleasant, peak tourist season
Most popular time – clear views, school holidays.
Book tickets very early; expect more crowd both on the train and at stations.
Jun–Sep
Mist, showers, lush greenery
Very green and dreamy; mist sweeping across valleys.
Keep raincoat / umbrella; services can be affected by landslides or heavy rain on some days.
Oct–Nov
Cool & pleasant
Balanced weather and slightly lighter crowds.
Good time to club toy train with full Ooty sightseeing in 2–3 days.
If you’re short on time, choose Ooty–Coonoor First Class for a 1–1.5 hr heritage ride. If you want the full engineering marvel and complete mountain climb, plan for the early morning Mettupalayam–Ooty service.
Travel Tips & Onboard Experience
Try to sit on the valley side for better views – check with locals / TTE at the platform before boarding.
There is usually no pantry car; carry your own water, snacks and basic medicines.
Windows may be partly open – keep a light jacket and protect cameras from coal dust / drizzle (on steam sections).
Respect locals who use the train for regular travel – avoid blocking doors and overcrowding doorways just for photos.
Follow safety instructions, do not lean out dangerously or stand on footboards for videos.
Boarding Points & How to Reach Stations
Mettupalayam (MTP): Base station in the plains; well connected to Coimbatore by road and regular trains.
Coonoor (ONR): Mid-hill station; many tourists stay here and board toy train for the Ooty–Coonoor stretch.
Ooty / Udhagamandalam (UAM): Hilltop terminus; close to Ooty Bus Stand and main town. Easy access by cab / auto.
Travel2Ooty can arrange cab transfers, hotel stay and sightseeing around your toy train journey – including pickup and drop at stations.
Map & Station Locations
Main tourist section: Ooty (Udhagamandalam) ↔ Coonoor ↔ Mettupalayam, running through tea estates and forested slopes.
What is special about the Ooty Toy Train / Nilgiri Mountain Railway?
It is a UNESCO World Heritage hill railway that climbs about 46 km from Mettupalayam to Ooty using a unique rack-and-pinion system on steep gradients. The route passes through tea gardens, forests, tunnels and bridges, giving a classic toy train experience.
What are the main timings for the toy train?
Typically, the main hill train leaves Mettupalayam around 7:10 AM and reaches Ooty close to noon. The return train from Ooty usually starts around 2:00 PM and reaches Mettupalayam by early evening. There are also short-distance Ooty–Coonoor trains at different times of the day. Exact timings can change, so always check the latest schedule on IRCTC / railway enquiry.
How much does the Ooty Toy Train ticket cost?
Fares vary by route, class and season. As a rough idea, First Class on the Mettupalayam–Ooty route is usually around ₹1,000–₹1,200, while Second Class falls in the ₹300–₹350 range. For the shorter Ooty–Coonoor stretch, First Class is typically a few hundred rupees and general class can be as low as ₹30–₹150. Check IRCTC for the exact fare on your journey date.
How can I book seats on the Ooty Toy Train?
You can book online through the IRCTC website or app by searching for trains between MTP–UAM or ONR–UAM. Choose your class, date and train number, complete payment and carry the e-ticket plus a valid ID. Limited tickets are also sold at station counters but they are subject to availability and long queues, especially in peak season.
Is the toy train safe for kids and elders?
Yes, families, kids and elders regularly travel on the toy train. Just make sure everyone is seated properly, avoid leaning out of windows and carry light snacks, water and extra warm clothing for elderly travellers. For very small children, choose a shorter Ooty–Coonoor ride instead of the full Mettupalayam–Ooty stretch.
Plan Your Ooty Toy Train Trip with Local Cabs
Combine Nilgiri Mountain Railway with Ooty sightseeing – cab pickup from Coimbatore / Mettupalayam, toy train ride, hotel stay in Ooty, plus visits to Ooty Lake, gardens, Doddabetta, tea factory and more.
