How to Reach Coonoor | A Complete Travel Guide

January 24, 2025

Coonoor, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, is a serene hill station known for its tea gardens, cool climate, and lush greenery. If you’re planning a visit, here’s a guide on how to reach Coonoor, including travel details from major cities in India.

How to Reach Coonoor?

By Air

The nearest airport to Coonoor is Coimbatore International Airport, located approximately 70 km away.

From Coimbatore Airport to Coonoor: You can take a taxi (around 1.5 to 2 hours) or a bus (approximately 2-3 hours). 

By Train

Coonoor is connected by rail through the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The nearest major station is Mettupalayam.

From Mettupalayam to Coonoor: You can take the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train), which offers a scenic 1.5-hour journey. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or take a bus for a 45-minute drive.

By Road

Coonoor is well-connected by road to nearby cities.

From Coimbatore: The distance is about 70 km, and the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via NH181.

From Ooty: Coonoor is just 20 km from Ooty, and the drive takes about 30-45 minutes via Coonoor-Ooty Road.

How to Reach Coonoor from Major Cities

How to Reach Coonoor from Mumbai

By Air: If you are travelling to Coonoor from Mumbai by flight, direct flight from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) to Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) (1.5 hours), then take a taxi or bus to Coonoor (1.5–2 hours).

By Train: If you are travelling to Coonoor from Delhi by train, tou will find direct AC superfasts from Mumbai CST to Mettupalayam or Coimbatore, followed by.

How to Reach Coonoor from Delhi?

By Air: If you are travelling to Coonoor from Delhi by flight, fly from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) (3-4 hours), then take a taxi or bus to Coonoor (1.5–2 hours).

By Train: If you are travelling to Coonoor from Delhi by train, you will find direct trains from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Coimbatore or Mettupalayam, followed by a taxi to Coonoor.

How to Reach Coonoor from Kolkata?

By Air: If you are travelling to Coonoor from Kolkata by flight, fly from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) to Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) (2.5-3 hours), then take a taxi or bus to Coonoor (1.5–2 hours).

By Train: If you are travelling to Coonoor from Delhi by train, you will find direct trains from Howrah Railway Station (HWH) to Mettupalayam or Coimbatore, followed by a taxi to Coonoor.

How to Reach Coonoor from Bangalore?

By Road: The most convenient way is to drive from Bangalore (approximately 280 km, 6-7 hours) via NH44 and NH181.

By Train: Take a train from Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) to Mettupalayam, then continue by road to Coonoor.

Reaching Coonoor is convenient whether you’re flying, taking a train, or driving. Each travel option provides a unique experience, from the scenic toy train ride to the relaxed drive through lush landscapes. Plan your journey accordingly for a smooth and enjoyable trip to this beautiful hill station.

FAQ’s 

1. What is the best way to reach Coonoor?
The best way to reach Coonoor is by train, as it offers scenic views and a direct connection from major cities. You can also take a bus or drive from Ooty, which is nearby.

2. How can I reach Coonoor by train?
Coonoor has a railway station on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, connected to Mettupalayam. From Mettupalayam, you can take the heritage train, a UNESCO-listed route.

3. How to reach Coonoor by flight?
The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport (about 70 km away). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Coonoor.

4. When not to visit Coonoor?
Avoid visiting during the peak monsoon season (June to September) when heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities.

5. How to reach Coonoor by bus?
There are regular bus services from nearby cities like Coimbatore and Ooty to Coonoor. You can take government or private buses for a comfortable ride.