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Riding the toy train to Ooty
Some dos and don'ts:
First things first. If you are thinking of taking the train to Ooty and returning by road, forget it. Take the trains both ways. The downward ride is totally different and you will be surprised by the number of things you missed to see while on your way up.
While going up, the engine will be pushing the train from behind. So, try and take a first class ticket (Rs 145), which will ensure you get the first coach with nothing blocking your view ahead.
While coming back, the engine will be pulling the train; but that changes nothing for you. The first class coach will now be at the rear, giving you a stunning view of the receding mountains and water falls. Even the last five kilometer long decline along a straight line, where the train does close to 50 kilometers an hour, will be a sight to remember.
• Airfare for Rs 599 and less!
Try and reach at least half an hour before departure, there are only 16 first class tickets.
If you don't get a first class ticket, buy an unreserved ticket and take one of the empty reserved coaches. You need to pay a mere Rs 15 as reservation charge.
Finally, ensure that you sit on the left side (from Mettuppalyam) as that is the side with the best views. The top of the hill and the drop of the valley is never out of your sight as the train winds its way up. Though it will be all rocks all the way up if you have the misfortune of sitting on the right, you will find some consolation in the form of sparkling white waterfalls.
Text and photograph: Krishna Kumar
Also read: Top 10 spots for love & romance
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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