Planning a trip to Ooty from Bangalore? Whether you’re looking for a scenic road trip, a comfortable train journey, or a quick flight, there are multiple ways to reach this charming hill station. Ooty, also known as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is a popular getaway nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, offering breathtaking landscapes, lush tea gardens, and a refreshing climate. This guide will provide you with detailed information on how to reach Ooty from Bangalore, covering the best routes, travel options, costs, and tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Whether you prefer driving through picturesque roads, experiencing the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, or opting for a quick flight, this article has everything you need to plan your perfect trip.
How to Reach Ooty from Bangalore
1. Distance from Bangalore to Ooty
The distance from Bangalore to Ooty is approximately 270 km by road. The travel time varies depending on the mode of transport:
- By road (car or bus): 6 to 7 hours
- By train (via Mettupalayam): 8 to 10 hours
- By flight (via Coimbatore): 3 to 4 hours (including travel time from Coimbatore to Ooty)
2. How to Reach Ooty from Bangalore by Road
2.1. Self-Drive or Taxi
Driving from Bangalore to Ooty is one of the most convenient options, offering a scenic and enjoyable experience.
Best Route Options:
Route 1: Via Mysore & Bandipur (NH 275 & NH 766) – 270 km (Most Scenic Route)
Route: Bangalore → Ramanagara → Mandya → Mysore → Gundlupet → Bandipur → Ooty
- Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Why Choose This Route?
- Passes through Bandipur National Park and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
- Scenic views with lush greenery and winding roads
- Well-maintained highways
🚗 Things to Know:
- The Bandipur stretch closes from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM, so plan your journey accordingly.
- Watch out for wildlife crossings inside the reserve forest.
Route 2: Via Kanakapura & Chamarajanagar (NH 948) – 280 km (Less Traffic)
Route: Bangalore → Kanakapura → Malavalli → Kollegal → Chamarajanagar → Gundlupet → Bandipur → Ooty
- Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
- Why Choose This Route?
- Less crowded compared to the Mysore route
- Good road conditions
- Suitable for travelers looking for a peaceful drive
🚗 Things to Know:
- Fewer restaurants and fuel stations compared to the Mysore route.
- The Bandipur forest restrictions apply here as well.
2.2. By Bus
Several government and private buses operate between Bangalore and Ooty.
🚌 Popular Bus Operators:
- KSRTC Airavat (Government Bus)
- Private Operators: SRS Travels, KPN Travels, Greenline Travels
🕒 Bus Timings & Duration:
- Multiple departures available from evening to late night
- Journey time: 7 to 8 hours
💰 Fare: ₹500 to ₹1,500 (depending on the type of bus: sleeper, semi-sleeper, AC, or non-AC)
📍 Boarding Points in Bangalore:
- Majestic Bus Stand
- Shanthinagar Bus Stand
- Madiwala
📍 Drop-off Points in Ooty:
- Ooty Bus Stand
- Charring Cross
3. How to Reach Ooty from Bangalore by Train
Ooty does not have a direct railway connection from Bangalore. The best way to reach by train is via Mettupalayam, which is the nearest railway station to Ooty.
Best Train Route:
- Step 1: Train from Bangalore to Mettupalayam
🚉 Trains Available:
- Mysuru – Mettupalayam Nilgiri Express (Train No. 12671)
- Departs from Bangalore: 9:00 PM
- Arrives in Mettupalayam: 6:30 AM
- Travel Time: 9.5 hours
💰 Fare:
- Sleeper Class: ₹300 – ₹400
- AC 3-Tier: ₹700 – ₹900
- Step 2: Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) from Mettupalayam to Ooty
🚂 Train Details:
- A UNESCO World Heritage toy train
- Distance: 46 km
- Duration: 5 hours
- Stunning views of hills, tunnels, and tea estates
🕒 Timings:
- Departs from Mettupalayam: 7:10 AM
- Arrives in Ooty: 12:00 PM
💰 Fare:
- First Class: ₹600
- Second Class: ₹300
- Unreserved: ₹80
🚨 Booking Tip: Book tickets in advance through IRCTC as the toy train has limited seats and is highly in demand.
4. How to Reach Ooty from Bangalore by Air
The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), located 87 km from Ooty.
Step 1: Flight from Bangalore to Coimbatore
✈️ Flights Available:
- Multiple daily flights operated by IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet
- Flight Duration: 1 hour
- Ticket Prices: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 (one-way)
Step 2: Travel from Coimbatore to Ooty
🚗 Options:
- Private Taxi: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (2.5-hour journey)
- Bus: TNSTC buses available (₹150 – ₹300, 3-hour journey)
5. Best Travel Option Based on Your Needs
| Mode | Best For | Duration | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car/Taxi | Scenic drive, flexibility | 6-7 hours | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Bus | Budget travelers, overnight journey | 7-8 hours | ₹500 – ₹1,500 |
| Train + Toy Train | Unique experience, photography | 10-12 hours | ₹500 – ₹1,500 |
| Flight + Taxi | Fastest option, luxury travel | 3-4 hours | ₹3,500 – ₹8,000 |
6. Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey
✅ Best Time to Visit: October to June (avoid monsoons due to slippery roads)
✅ Carry warm clothes as Ooty can be chilly even in summer
✅ Book tickets in advance for trains and toy trains, especially during peak season
✅ Avoid night travel through Bandipur as the forest road is closed
✅ Carry cash for small expenses, as network issues may affect online payments in some areas
Conclusion
Reaching Ooty from Bangalore is easy and enjoyable, with multiple travel options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you prefer the scenic road trip, a unique train journey, or a quick flight, Ooty welcomes you with its breathtaking beauty and pleasant weather. Plan your trip wisely, book your tickets early, and get ready to explore the mesmerizing hills of Ooty!
Would you like more information or help planning your trip? Let us know in the comments! 🚘🚂✈️