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Riding the toy train to Ooty
Why can't the steam engine continue?
Two reasons. First, the steam engine is essential on the first leg between Mettuppalayam and Coonoor because of the various viaducts. The century-old wooden sleepers on the viaducts and the concrete pillars cannot take the weight of the diesel locomotive. Second, the diesel locomotive will have better power to cover the final incline.
The train leaves Coonoor. You are already drunk on nature and want more of the same. But nature has other plans. No more valley view, it says. No more frighteningly old viaducts, it says. Instead it throws up tall and slender eucalyptus trees and vast expanses of tea plantations. And throws in a pleasant chill as a bonus. By the time you reach Ooty, you are at peace with yourself, with the second leg coming as a perfect laidback and calming foil to the breathtaking thrill of the first leg.
• Airfare for Rs 599 and less!
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh thanked the Raj for giving us the education system and the civil services. Whether you agree with that or not, you will definitely thank the Raj for giving us the mountain rail after you have done this journey.
Though there is a regular service on all days of the year, the Railways have introduced a summer special service till June 8. These sport new rakes with larger windows, and better leg room. The train will leave Mettupplayam at 9 am and reach Ooty at 1:50 pm. The return special train would have left Ooty by then. So if you want to get down the same day, there is a regular train at 3 pm.
Text and photograph: Krishna Kumar
Also read: Beat the heat in Kodaikanal
Share YOUR travel stories and pix!Have you been to Ooty? What was your favourite sight there? Where did you have the best meal? Do you have a hotel to recommend? Do post details on the message board below so other readers can benefit from your advice. Remember to add information on what was special about the restaurant, hotel or sight you visited, along with relevant telephone numbers and addresses.
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