Mountain Railways of India.
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway offers an unforgettable journey through the picturesque Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu, India. As the only operational rack-and-pinion railway in the country, it employs an Abt rack system to tackle steep gradients with ease, providing passengers with stunning vistas of lush tea plantations, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls along its 46 km route. Constructed in the late 19th century and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, this railway is a marvel of engineering and history. The journey takes approximately 4.8 hours uphill, traversing 16 tunnels and over 250 curves, revealing charming stations like Coonoor and Lovedale, each reflecting colonial heritage. It operates using steam locomotives, making it a unique and scenic experience.