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Chennai, Tamil Nadu to Udagamandalam, Tamil Nadu from $4: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Chennai, India
to
Udagamandalam, India

How to Get from Chennai to Udagamandalam: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$4 by trainBest price
576 kmDistance
3h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chennai to Udagamandalam with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  50m
Estimated price
$62-184
Recommended
Company
Indian Railways
Train
Train
Average Duration
14h  55m
Estimated price
$4-23
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 576 km
Duration: 3h 50m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$70-176
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
$80-186
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
6h  32m
Estimated price
$110-620
Company
Indian Railways
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
8h  35m
Estimated price
$621-1840
Company
Parveen Travels
Bus
Average Duration
11h  6m
Estimated price
$622-623
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
14h  48m
Estimated price
$624-625
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  31m
Estimated price
$626-627
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chennai to Ooty

Your journey from Chennai to Ooty takes you from the bustling city vibes to the serene, misty hills, offering a refreshing contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Ooty

Ooty offers diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and attractions.

Charring Cross
• Central hub with vibrant markets and shops.
• Close to popular attractions like the Botanical Garden.
St. Stephen's Church
• Historic church with stunning architecture and serene ambiance.
• Great spot for photography lovers.
Nilgiri Hills
• Breathtaking views of lush landscapes and tea gardens.
• Ideal for nature walks and adventure activities.

Best Times To Visit Ooty's Attractions

Exploring Ooty's attractions? Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience.

Botanical Garden
Visit early mornings on weekdays for fewer crowds and vibrant blooms.
Ooty Lake
Go during weekdays in the off-season for a serene boating experience.
Doddabetta Peak
Plan your visit at sunrise for stunning views and cooler temps.

Ooty Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Ooty enjoys a cool, temperate climate year-round, making it a refreshing getaway from the heat. The best times to visit are from April to June and September to November, as pleasant weather enhances your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Ooty

Try the homemade vegetable stew served with appams at the charming restaurant, The Sidewalk Café, which showcases Ooty's unique flavors through local ingredients. This intimate setting and cozy atmosphere contrast sharply with the bustling street food scene in Chennai, offering a peaceful retreat to savor every bite.

Chennai - Udagamandalam operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chennai and Udagamandalam, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Website
parveentravels.com

Bus from Koyembedu to Ooty

Average Duration
11h 6m
Estimated price
$622-623
Contact phone
9513948001
Website
tnstc.in

Bus from Chennai Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G.R. Bus Terminus to Hosur

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$1846-1848
Contact phone
080-26252625
Website
ksrtc.in

Bus from Chennai Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G.R. Bus Terminus to Hosur

Average Duration
5h 34m
Estimated price
$4-1849
Contact phone
080 46333686
Website
samtourist.com

Bus from Hosur to Ooty Bus Stand

Average Duration
6h 48m
Estimated price
$622-454
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
14646
Website
indianrail.gov.in

Train from Chennai Central to Metupalaiyam

Average Duration
9h 10m
Estimated price
$1846-40

Train from Metupalaiyam to Udagamandalam

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$43-44

Train from Chennai Central to Coimbatore Nrth

Average Duration
7h 4m
Estimated price
$1846-1847
Plane Show flights
Website
goindigo.in

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Coimbatore (CJB)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$623-1841

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Calicut (CCJ)

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$40-1842

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Mysore (MYQ)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$40-1841

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Kochi (COK)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$40-1843
Website
airindia.in

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Coimbatore (CJB)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$623-1844
Website
spicejet.com

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Kochi (COK)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$623-1845
Other Show other routes

Other from Coimbatore to Ooty

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$457-18463

Chennai to Udagamandalam: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chennai and Udagamandalam offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Chennai to Ooty, covering a distance of 349 miles. The journey promises breathtaking views of the lush landscapes along the way. 💰 Indulge in the flexibility of car travel, with prices ranging from $65 to $95 for the trip from Chennai to Ooty. Enjoy the convenience of stopping at charming roadside attractions at your own pace. 🌲 Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Ooty after a 7-hour and 31-minute drive from Chennai. Explore the charming hill station's tea plantations, botanical gardens, and cool climate for a refreshing getaway.
Average price
$65 - $95
Useful tips for car travellers
• Along the route from Chennai to Udagamandalam (Ooty), make sure to stop for fuel at stations like Indian Oil or HP, which generally offer prices around ₹100-₹110 per liter as of recent trends.
• While driving, take NH 48 towards Salem and then shift to NH 181 heading towards Udagamandalam; be prepared for steep inclines and curvy roads, and remember that local driving etiquette prefers slower vehicles to stay to the left to allow faster traffic to pass.
• On arrival in Udagamandalam, parking can generally cost around ₹50-₹150 per day depending on the location; be aware of restricted zones such as the town center where parking is limited and may require special permits.
🚂 Starting from Chennai Central station, the train journey to Ooty involves a transfer at Mettupalaiyam before reaching Udagamandalam. 🌿 The scenic route covers a distance of 579 km and takes approximately 14 hours and 55 minutes to complete, including the transfers. 🎟️ The prices for a ticket on this route range from $4 to $23, offering budget-friendly travel options. 🚈 The first leg of the journey is a 9-hour and 15-minute train ride towards Mettupalaiyam on the Nilgiri SF Express operated by Indian Railways. 🌄 Departing from Chennai, this part of the trip sets the stage for the charming mountainous terrain that awaits in Ooty. 🛤️ The second step involves boarding the Mettupalayam - Udagamandalam MG Passenger Special train for the final stretch to Ooty, lasting approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes.
Departure Point
Chennai Central station
Arrival Point
Udagamandalam station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Chennai to Udagamandalam, you'll find catering services that typically offer a selection of local vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Look out for ‘Rail Neer’ drinking water service, and enjoy freshly prepared meals that you can pre-order online through the IRCTC website. Do check the available menu options after boarding.
• The train on the Chennai to Udagamandalam route generally offers Sleeper Class, 3AC, 2AC, and First Class compartments. For a comfortable experience, consider opting for 2AC as it provides air conditioning and more space. If you're traveling with family or prefer a more private setting, First Class would be suitable, but it's advisable to book in advance due to limited availability.
• Two prominent operators for this route are Southern Railway (sr.indianrailways.gov.in) and Nilgiri Mountain Railway (nmr.indianrailways.gov.in). You can check their websites for train schedules and to book tickets. Additionally, for local transport options like buses to the city center, visit the Udagamandalam bus station's official website for more information.
🛫 Flying from Madras Airport in Chennai to Coimbatore Airport, the direct flight to Ooty takes just 50 minutes. Air India Limited and IndiGo Airlines are the top choices for this route. 🏞 Upon landing in Coimbatore, travelers can easily take a scenic drive to Ooty, which is approximately 85 kilometers away. The road journey offers stunning views of the Nilgiri Mountains and lush greenery.
Departure Point
Madras Airport
Arrival Point
Coimbatore Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book an early morning flight to maximize your chances of clear weather over the Western Ghats, as clouds can often obscure views and lead to delays later in the day.
• Upon landing at Coimbatore Airport, expect some waiting time for luggage; be prepared as the process might take longer due to the airport's smaller capacity compared to major international airports.
• The taxi fare from Coimbatore Airport to Udagamandalam typically ranges from INR 2,500 to INR 3,500, depending on the type of vehicle you choose; it’s advisable to negotiate or check with pre-paid taxi counters for best rates.
🚌 Traveling from Chennai to Ooty by bus is a convenient option, with services departing twice daily and taking approximately 11 hours and 6 minutes to reach the hill station. The journey is operated by Parveen Travels, offering a comfortable and reliable travel experience. 🌲 Enjoy the scenic route from Chennai to Ooty, covering a distance of 453 km with a transfer along the way. Explore different bus options such as the Kottayam A/C Business Class Sleeper and Ooty A/C Sleeper for a smooth and pleasant journey through picturesque landscapes.
Departure Point
Koyembedu station
Arrival Point
Ooty station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus tickets in advance using platforms like RedBus to ensure you get your preferred timing, especially during weekends and holidays when demand may be higher.
• Since the journey from Chennai to Ooty takes around 11 hours, bring along snacks and a refillable water bottle, as amenities may be limited on the bus; consider stopping at a local eatery near Koyembedu before departure.
• Upon arriving at Ooty bus station, familiarize yourself with the station layout by referring to local maps available at the station, and ensure you identify the nearest taxi or auto-rickshaw stand for convenient onward travel to your accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chennai to Udagamandalam.

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The distance between Chennai and Ooty is approximately 270 miles, or 348.1 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train, it takes about 14 hours and 55 minutes to reach Ooty from Chennai. By flying to Coimbatore and then taking a taxi, it takes around 4 hours. By car, the travel time from Chennai to Ooty is about 7 hours and 31 minutes, while by bus, it takes approximately 11 hours and 6 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chennai to Ooty is by bus, which takes approximately 11 hours and costs between $10 and $35. This allows travelers to save money while still reaching their destination. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly to Coimbatore and then take a taxi to Ooty, which takes around 4 hours and costs between $60 and $170. This option is more expensive but significantly reduces travel time.
When traveling from Chennai to Ooty, the prices of a train ticket range from $4 to $23, depending on the class and amenities. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket from Ooty to Chennai vary from $10 to $35, depending on the type of bus and the booking time. It is always advisable to book in advance to secure the best prices and availability for your trip.
To get from Chennai to Ooty without using public transportation, you have the option of driving. The driving distance between the two cities is 348 miles and it takes approximately 7 hours and 31 minutes to reach Ooty by car. The prices for a car journey from Chennai to Ooty range from $65 to $95.
To travel from Chennai to Ooty without a car, the best option is to take a train from Chennai to Coimbatore, which takes about 8 hours and 40 minutes. From Coimbatore, you can then hire a taxi or take a local bus to Ooty, which is approximately a 3-hour drive. This mode of transportation allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty and relax during your journey. The estimated cost for this train and taxi option ranges from $29 to $50.
No, there is no direct train link between Chennai and Ooty. However, there are train services available that require a transfer at Metupalaiyam and the journey takes approximately 14h 55m. On the other hand, there is a direct bus service that departs from Koyembedu and arrives at Ooty, taking around 11h 6m. These options provide convenient connections for travel between Chennai and Ooty.
The flight from Chennai to Ooty typically takes around 1 hour. The quickest and most convenient option is to take a direct flight from Madras Airport to Coimbatore Airport. As for the cost, it varies depending on the airline and time of booking, but a roundtrip ticket can cost anywhere from $100 to $300. It is advisable to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Ooty. With over 553 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a wide range of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $16 per night, making it affordable for visitors to find suitable accommodation for their stay in Ooty. From luxury resorts to budget hotels, travelers are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a place to stay near Ooty.

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