India’s slowest train wows tourists with scenic 5-hour ride through Nilgiri Hills
Babushahi Bureau
Nilgiri Hills (Tamil Nadu), May 19, 2025: For those who believe that travel is more about the journey than the destination, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Known as India's slowest train, this heritage railway covers just 46 kilometers between Mettupalayam and Ooty in the scenic Nilgiri Hills — and it takes nearly 5 hours to complete the trip!
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this narrow-gauge railway climbs steep mountain slopes, crosses dramatic viaducts, and weaves through lush tea gardens and forested valleys, all at a relaxed pace that gives travelers time to soak in every moment.
While modern trains pride themselves on speed, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway celebrates slowness, making it an unforgettable ride for tourists, train lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Baljit Balli, Editor-in-Chief of Babushahi Network, notes: “It’s not just a train ride — it’s a step back into colonial-era charm and natural beauty.”
So, if you're planning a trip to South India, don't miss this timeless journey through the hills — where the whistle echoes across the valleys, and the past meets the present on the tracks.