Nilgiri Mountain Railway Turns 125: Celebrating a Historic Milestone of Ooty’s UNESCO Heritage Train

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Ooty, June 18, 2025 – The legendary Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s most iconic heritage trains, has completed 125 years of continuous operation. The milestone was celebrated with grandeur at Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station, drawing tourists, railway officials, and local residents.

Commissioned in 1900, the NMR is India’s only rack-and-pinion hill railway, running from Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor. Covering 46 km through tunnels, forests, and tea estates, it remains a top tourist attraction in Tamil Nadu.

In 2005, the railway was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of the prestigious “Mountain Railways of India” recognition. Over the years, the train has not only been a vital link to the Nilgiris but also a nostalgic journey through India’s colonial past.

“The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a moving museum. “Even after 125 years, it continues to inspire pride,” said a Southern Railway official during the celebration.

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A special steam engine run and cultural programs marked the anniversary. Southern Railway has also reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the train’s legacy through restoration and eco-friendly modernization.

With this milestone, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway continues to be a shining example of India’s heritage tourism and railway engineering legacy.

Quick Highlights:

• Started: June 1900
  
• UNESCO Heritage Status: Since 2005
  
• Route: Mettupalayam – Coonoor – Ooty (46 km)
  
• Top Attraction: Ooty hill station, Tamil Nadu
  
• Operator: Southern Railway, Indian Railways

Plan Your Ooty Hill Station Getaway

With the 125th anniversary drawing renewed attention to the region, now is the perfect time to plan your Ooty holiday. Several custom Ooty tour packages are now available for couples, families, and solo travellers.