How to Reach Ooty: A Complete Guide for travelers

Ooty, short for Ootacamund, is a beautiful hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. Known for its stunning landscapes, cool climate, and serene environment, Ooty is a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re planning a relaxing vacation, an adventure-filled trip, or just a peaceful escape, Ooty offers something for everyone.

If you’re wondering how to reach Ooty, this guide will walk you through the different ways to get there, along with some helpful tips for each mode of transportation.

1. By Air

Reaching Ooty by air is one of the fastest ways, but since Ooty doesn’t have its own airport, you need to fly to the nearest airport and then take a road trip to reach the hill station.

Nearest Airport to Ooty

The closest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport, which is about 85 kilometers away. Coimbatore is well-connected to major cities across India, such as Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai. There are also some international flights from places like Singapore and Sharjah.

From Coimbatore Airport to Ooty

Once you land at Coimbatore, you can choose to either hire a taxi or take a bus to Ooty. The road journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

• By Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. You can book one at the airport taxi stand or pre-book through a travel agency. The ride will take you through scenic mountain roads, offering beautiful views of the Nilgiri Hills.
• By Bus: Government and private buses also run frequently from Coimbatore to Ooty. You can find buses from the Coimbatore bus stand, and they usually take about 4-5 hours to reach.

2. By Train

Traveling to Ooty by train is a popular choice among tourists. The journey is not only comfortable but also scenic, especially if you take the famous toy train that runs through the Nilgiri Hills.

Nearest Railway Station to Ooty

The nearest major railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station, which is about 40 kilometers from Ooty. From there, you can either take a taxi or board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also known as the Ooty Toy Train, for a more enjoyable experience.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Ooty Toy Train)

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most scenic train rides in India. The train operates between Mettupalayam and Ooty, covering a distance of 46 kilometers. It takes around 5 hours to reach Ooty from Mettupalayam because the train moves at a slow pace, allowing passengers to soak in the breathtaking views of tea plantations, forests, and valleys.

• Booking Tickets: You can book tickets for the toy train through the IRCTC website or at the railway station. Since it’s a popular attraction, tickets tend to get sold out quickly, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
• Train Timings: The toy train runs daily, and there are usually one or two trains per day. The timings may vary, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule beforehand.
• From Mettupalayam to Ooty by Taxi: If you prefer a quicker route, you can also hire a taxi from Mettupalayam to Ooty, which will take around 1.5 to 2 hours.

3. By Bus

Ooty is well-connected by road, and buses offer a convenient and affordable way to reach the town. There are regular bus services from nearby cities, such as Coimbatore, Bangalore, and Mysore. Both government and private buses are available, and you can choose from a range of options, including regular, deluxe, and Volvo buses.

Bus from Bangalore to Ooty

Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, is around 275 kilometers from Ooty. It takes about 6-7 hours by road. Several private operators offer buses from Bangalore to Ooty, and you can also find state-run buses from the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).

• Private Buses: Private operators usually provide comfortable seating, including sleeper and semi-sleeper options. You can book tickets online through various platforms.
• Government Buses: Government-run buses are a more economical choice. While they may not be as luxurious as private buses, they are reliable and run frequently.

Bus from Coimbatore to Ooty

If you’re starting your journey from Coimbatore, it will take around 4-5 hours to reach Ooty by bus. Both Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) and private buses operate on this route. The ride offers some stunning views, especially as you get closer to the Nilgiri Hills.

Bus from Mysore to Ooty

From Mysore, the distance to Ooty is around 125 kilometers, and the journey takes about 4-5 hours by bus. There are both government and private buses available, and the road takes you through the Bandipur National Park, where you might even spot some wildlife along the way.

4. By Car

If you love road trips, driving to Ooty can be a fantastic experience. The winding roads, lush green landscapes, and cool mountain air make for a refreshing journey. However, driving in the hills requires caution, especially if you’re not used to driving on steep and narrow roads.

Route from Bangalore to Ooty by Car

The drive from Bangalore to Ooty takes about 6-7 hours. The most common route is via Mysore, and it passes through the scenic Bandipur National Park. You’ll drive through dense forests, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some elephants, deer, or even a tiger.

• Route: Bangalore → Mysore → Bandipur National Park → Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary → Ooty

Route from Coimbatore to Ooty by Car

The drive from Coimbatore to Ooty takes about 3-4 hours. The road is relatively easy to navigate, but as you approach the hill station, you’ll encounter hairpin bends and steep climbs. The scenery is breathtaking, with tea plantations, waterfalls, and valleys along the way.

• Route: Coimbatore → Mettupalayam → Coonoor → Ooty

Route from Mysore to Ooty by Car

The road trip from Mysore to Ooty is shorter, taking about 4-5 hours. The route is scenic, and the road conditions are generally good. As mentioned earlier, the drive takes you through Bandipur National Park and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

• Route: Mysore → Bandipur → Mudumalai → Ooty

Driving Tips

• Check Your Vehicle: Make sure your car is in good condition before starting your journey. Check the brakes, tires, and fuel.
• Drive Carefully: Mountain roads can be tricky, with sharp turns and steep inclines. Drive slowly, especially on hairpin bends.
• Stop for Breaks: There are several viewpoints and rest stops along the way where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery.

5. By Taxi

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to travel, hiring a taxi is a convenient option. You can hire a taxi from nearby cities like Coimbatore, Mysore, or Bangalore. Taxis offer the flexibility to stop wherever you like, making the journey more enjoyable.

Taxi from Coimbatore to Ooty

Taxis from Coimbatore to Ooty take about 3-4 hours. The fare will vary depending on the type of vehicle and whether it’s a one-way or round trip.

Taxi from Bangalore to Ooty

The journey from Bangalore to Ooty by taxi takes about 6-7 hours. You can book a taxi through online platforms or hire one from a local travel agency.