Chennai, March 9: In anticipation of a surge in tourist numbers during the summer vacation, the Southern Railway’s Salem division has announced the launch of a special summer service for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. This service will operate between Mettupalayam in Coimbatore district and Ooty in the Nilgiri district, starting March 27.
According to railway officials, the special train will run twice a week from March 27 to July 5, specifically on Fridays and Sundays. The train will depart from Mettupalayam at 9:10 AM and arrive in Ooty at 2:25 PM, offering passengers a delightful journey through the scenic Nilgiri hills.
The return service from Ooty to Mettupalayam will be available from March 28 to July 6, operating on Saturdays and Mondays. On these days, the train will leave Ooty at 11:25 AM and reach Mettupalayam at 4:20 PM.
Officials noted that during the summer months, many people seek refuge from the intense heat of the plains by heading to the cooler hill stations. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which currently operates between Mettupalayam and Ooty, is renowned for its breathtaking views of lush forests, tea gardens, tunnels, and steep mountain curves, making it one of the most sought-after tourist experiences in South India. The railway is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Under the regular schedule, this heritage train departs from Mettupalayam at 7:10 AM and arrives in Ooty around noon. The approximately 46-kilometer route attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those eager to experience this historic steam-powered mountain railway.
With school and college exams concluding and summer vacations approaching, there has been a significant increase in demand for tickets on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Due to high demand, many travelers have found it challenging to secure seats on the regular service. Authorities have indicated that the additional summer special services are expected to alleviate ticket shortages and provide more opportunities for travelers wishing to enjoy the cool climate and natural beauty of the Nilgiris.
Railway officials advise passengers to book their tickets in advance through authorized booking platforms to avoid last-minute inconveniences, as the mountain train remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu during the summer season.
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