Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is one of the most popular hill stations in Southern India. Known for its lush greenery, pleasant climate, and scenic beauty, it attracts tourists from all over the world. If you are planning a trip from Kolkata to Ooty, there are several travel options to consider. In this guide, we will explore the best ways to reach Ooty from Kolkata, with a focus on comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
By Air
The fastest way to travel from Kolkata to Ooty is by air. However, since Ooty doesn’t have its own airport, you will need to take a flight to the nearest airport and then travel to Ooty by road or train.
Kolkata to Coimbatore
The nearest major airport to Ooty is the Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), which is approximately 85 kilometers away. Coimbatore has excellent connectivity to major cities across India, including Kolkata. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet operate direct flights between Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata and Coimbatore.
Once you land at Coimbatore, you have multiple options to reach Ooty.
Coimbatore to Ooty
After arriving in Coimbatore, you can travel to Ooty by road or by train. The journey by road takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, covering a distance of 85 kilometers. There are plenty of taxis and private cabs available at the airport that will take you directly to Ooty. You can also hire a self-drive car if you prefer the flexibility of driving yourself.
Alternatively, you can opt for a train journey. Coimbatore has a railway station with connectivity to Ooty. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, operates the famous toy train that connects Mettupalayam (a town near Coimbatore) to Ooty. This scenic train ride is a must-do for tourists visiting Ooty, as it takes you through the picturesque hills of the Nilgiri mountains.
By Train
Traveling by train from Kolkata to Ooty is another comfortable and scenic option. Though there is no direct train from Kolkata to Ooty, you can take a train to a nearby city and then board another train to Ooty.
Kolkata to Coimbatore by Train
You can take a direct train from Howrah Junction (Kolkata) to Coimbatore Junction. There are several trains operating on this route, such as the Howrah-Coimbatore Express, which takes around 28 to 30 hours to cover the distance. After reaching Coimbatore, you can continue your journey to Ooty by road, as mentioned earlier.
Alternatively, you can opt for a train to Mettupalayam, which is around 40 kilometers from Ooty. Mettupalayam serves as the base station for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway’s toy train. From Mettupalayam, you can board the toy train to Ooty, which takes you on a beautiful 5-hour journey through the Nilgiri hills. The train ride is a highlight for many travelers as it offers unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes.
Kolkata to Mettupalayam by Train
Taking a train from Kolkata to Mettupalayam is a longer journey, but it allows you to enjoy the scenic route through the southern part of India. Once at Mettupalayam, the toy train will take you through the lush green hills of Ooty.
The toy train operates daily and is a popular attraction, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance to secure a seat, especially during peak tourist seasons.
By Road
For those who enjoy a road trip, traveling from Kolkata to Ooty by car or bus is a feasible option. Though the journey is long, it offers a chance to experience the changing landscapes of India, from the plains of West Bengal to the picturesque hills of Tamil Nadu.
Kolkata to Ooty by Car
The total distance from Kolkata to Ooty by road is approximately 1,700 kilometers, and the journey can take around 30 to 35 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way. If you are traveling by car, the most common route is to take National Highway 6 (NH6) from Kolkata, which connects you to various towns and cities en route, such as Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, and Chennai.
Once you reach Chennai, you can take the Chennai to Ooty route, which passes through the scenic Nilgiri Hills. While this route offers breathtaking views, it involves winding mountain roads, so it’s best to drive with caution.
Kolkata to Ooty by Bus
If you’re looking for a more economical option, you can take a long-distance bus from Kolkata to Ooty. While there is no direct bus service between the two cities, you can take a bus from Kolkata to Chennai and then switch to a local bus to Ooty. The journey by bus can be quite exhausting, especially given the long distance, so it’s more suitable for budget travelers or those who enjoy the adventure of road travel.
Best Time to Visit Ooty
While you can visit Ooty year-round, the best time to travel is during the months of March to June and September to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the lush greenery of the hills is at its peak. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, should be avoided as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.
Conclusion
Traveling from Kolkata to Ooty can be an exciting journey, whether you choose to travel by air, train, or road. Each mode of transport has its own set of advantages, depending on your preferences for time, comfort, and scenic beauty. Air travel is the quickest option, but if you want to enjoy the scenic beauty of South India, traveling by train or road can be a more immersive experience.
Regardless of how you choose to travel, a trip to Ooty promises to be a memorable experience, with its cool climate, beautiful landscapes, and serene environment.
