India's slowest train: A journey you can't afford to miss

Indian Railways, the lifeline of the country, boasts premium semi-high-speed trains like Vande Bharat, offering a world-class travel experience to its passengers. At the same time, several Jansadharan Express trains are operated to cater to the needs of the economically disadvantaged. While the fastest trains in the country are often highlighted, do you know about the slowest train in India? Today we are going to tell you about the slowest train in the country.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Mettupalayam-Ooty Nilgiri passenger train), known as India’s slowest train, offers a unique journey through the scenic beauty of the Nilgiri Hills. Operating at a speed of just 9 kms per hour speed, this 'toy' train covers a distance of 46 km in 5 hours. This makes it approximately 16 times slower than the fastest train in India. This train runs between Mettupalayam and Ooty.

This is a meter gauge rail route, which necessitates the train running at a very slow speed. The entire stretch between Mettupalayam and Ooty is situated in the mountains. The slowest train in India passes through several piquant hill stations such as Keller, Coonoor, Wellington, Love Dale and Fern Hill.

Established in the early 1900s, the train is the only operational rack railway in India at this point. The train uses steam locomotives and is operated by the Southern Railway of India. The train still retains its nostalgic charm with its vintage charm. It begins its journey at the foothills of the Nilgiris from Mettupalayam railway station and concludes at Ooty station.

In 2005, UNESCO declared the railway as a World Heritage Site as an extension to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. It has since then been a part of the greater heritage site of the Mountain Railways in India. According to the UNESCO website, the construction of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway was first proposed in 1854, but due to the difficulty of the mountainous location, the work started in 1891 and was completed in 1908.

The train winds its way through lush tea gardens, dense forests, and rugged landscapes before reaching Ooty. With over 16 tunnels, 250 bridges, and 208 winding curves, the route offers both a challenging and breathtaking experience. The slowest train journey promises an unforgettable adventure for those eager to embrace the charm of this leisurely ride.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, though the slowest train, offers a unique experience that fast travel can’t match. It invites passengers to slow down, enjoy the serene landscape, connect with others, and appreciate the peaceful Nilgiri Hills. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts, it’s a journey that highlights the beauty of the experience itself, encouraging you to savor every moment, view, and station, rather than rush to the destination.

The Mettupalayam-Ooty Nilgiri passenger train coaches are painted in blue and cream, made of wood, and feature large windows that allow passengers to fully enjoy the scenic beauty of the Nilgiri hills. The train offers both First Class and General Category coaches with 72 and 100 seats respectively. In 2016, a fourth coach was added to meet the rising demand from tourists.

It departs from Mettupalayam station at 7:10 am and reaches Ooty by around 12 noon. In the afternoon, the train leaves Ooty at 2 pm and returns to Mettupalayam station by 5:30 pm. You can book your tickets online through the IRCTC website.