Coonoor, a charming hill station in Tamil Nadu, is one of the best places to visit for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and peace seekers alike. Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, Coonoor offers scenic landscapes, lush tea gardens, and a pleasant climate throughout the year.
But before you enjoy the breathtaking views and tea plantations, you need to know how to get to Coonoor. Whether you prefer train, road, or air travel, this guide will help you find the best transportation options to reach Coonoor comfortably.
One of the most beautiful ways to reach Coonoor is by train. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Ooty to Coonoor Toy Train) is a UNESCO-listed heritage train that takes you on a scenic ride through misty mountains, tunnels, and lush valleys.
🚂 History & Significance:
Built in 1908, this railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Known for its vintage steam engines and slow yet scenic journey.
Features sharp curves, tunnels, and breathtaking views.
🎟️ Ticket Booking & Timings:
The train runs daily between Mettupalayam, Coonoor, and Ooty.
Booking: Available at IRCTC online or at the station.
Travel Time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes from Ooty to Coonoor.
🌄 Why Take This Train?
One of India’s most scenic train rides
Budget-friendly & safe for all travelers
Perfect for photographers & nature lovers
🚉 Connectivity:
Well-connected to major cities like Coimbatore, Chennai, Bangalore, and Mysore.
Direct trains run between Mettupalayam and Coimbatore.
🛠️ Facilities:
Taxi stands & auto-rickshaws available outside the station.
Cafés & small shops inside the station.
Waiting areas and luggage storage facilities.
🔗 Related: Top 10 Places to Visit in Coonoor – A Complete Guide
If you love road trips, traveling to Coonoor by car or bus is a great choice. The winding hill roads, surrounded by tea estates and forests, make the journey just as exciting as the destination.
📍 Distance: 285 km (approx. 6.5 hours drive)
🚗 Best Route: Bangalore → Mysore → Bandipur → Ooty → Coonoor
🌿 Why Choose This Route?
Scenic views of Bandipur National Park
Best for nature lovers & road trip enthusiasts
Several pit stops with restaurants and petrol stations
📍 Distance: 70 km (approx. 2 hours drive)
🚌 Best Travel Options:
Private taxi: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 (best for families)
Government buses: ₹100 – ₹300 (affordable & frequent)
Self-drive: Smooth roads and quick journey
🌄 Why Choose This Route?
Fastest way to reach Coonoor
Good road conditions for all vehicles
📍 Distance: 20 km (approx. 45 minutes drive)
🛣️ Road Type: Winding mountain roads with breathtaking views
🔗 Related: Coonoor Weather Guide – Best Time to Visit & Seasonal Travel Tips
If you’re traveling from far, the best way to reach Coonoor is by flight + road travel.
🛫 Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB)
🚗 Distance from Coonoor: 70 km (2-hour drive)
🚖 Travel Options:
Taxis & cabs: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000
Bus services: Available at Coimbatore Bus Stand
Bangalore Airport (BLR): 290 km (7-hour drive)
Chennai Airport (MAA): 525 km (12-hour drive)
Kochi Airport (COK): 270 km (7-hour drive)
🔗 Related: Best Hotels & Resorts in Coonoor – Where to Stay
| City | Distance (km) | Travel Time | Best Mode of Transport | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangalore | 285 km | 6.5 hours | Car/Bus | ₹500 – ₹5,000 |
| Coimbatore | 70 km | 2 hours | Car/Bus | ₹100 – ₹3,000 |
| Chennai | 525 km | 12 hours | Train/Flight | ₹500 – ₹10,000 |
| Ooty | 20 km | 45 min | Car/Bus | ₹50 – ₹500 |
✔ Best Time to Visit Coonoor Based on Weather
🌞 Summer (March – May): Ideal for sightseeing
🌧️ Monsoon (June – September): Lush greenery, but risky road conditions
❄️ Winter (October – February): Cool & best for adventure activities
✔ Packing Tips for Different Travel Modes
By train: Carry a light blanket for comfort
By road: Keep motion sickness tablets if you’re sensitive to winding roads
By air: Book cabs in advance for hassle-free airport transfers
✔ Local Transport Availability in Coonoor
Auto-rickshaws: Easily available, affordable for short trips
Cabs & taxis: Available at railway station & bus stand
Bike rentals: Perfect for exploring Coonoor at your own pace
🔗 Related: Best Restaurants in Coonoor – A Foodie’s Guide
Coonoor is well-connected by train, road, and air, making it easy to reach no matter where you're coming from. If you love scenic journeys, take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. If you prefer a quick trip, opt for a car or flight to Coimbatore.
Whichever way you choose, Coonoor will welcome you with misty mountains, fresh tea gardens, and a peaceful retreat from city life!
🔗 Related: Coonoor Travel Guide – Best Places to Visit, Things to Do, and Where to Stay
