The narrow gauge train service commonly known as the Ooty toy train or the Nilgiri toy train is not a toy train at all. The service connects Mettuppalayam at the foot of the Nilgiri Hills to Udhagamandalam or Ooty, known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’.

This ‘toy train’ is a charming blue and cream affair with wooden coaches and large windows. It is hauled by cute little steam engines, at a maximum speed of 33 km per hour. While weaving its way over, forested hills and tea plantations, it passes through 16 tunnels and goes across 250 girder bridges. It is a fascinating trip with a breathtaking view.

Approximately 5lakh people travel every year in this train, a major tourist attraction.