While many travelers opt for trains and buses, one of the most comfortable, flexible, and hassle-free ways to reach Ooty from Mettupalayam is by booking a cab. Whether you are traveling for leisure, honeymoon, family vacations, or weekend getaways, booking a cab ensures you enjoy the scenic drive without worrying about road conditions or schedules.
In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to book cab from Mettupalayam to Ooty, what options are available, estimated fares, travel tips, and why a cab is the most convenient option for this route.
Why Choose a Cab from Mettupalayam to Ooty?
Before diving into the booking process, let’s understand why a cab is often the preferred choice:
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Flexibility – Unlike trains or buses, a cab lets you start the journey at your own convenience.
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Comfort – You can enjoy a private, air-conditioned ride with enough luggage space.
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Scenic Drive – The Mettupalayam to Ooty stretch (about 36 km uphill) passes through beautiful forests, hairpin bends, and viewpoints.
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Door-to-Door Service – Pick-up from your hotel, railway station, or bus stand and drop-off at your Ooty accommodation.
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Ideal for Families & Groups – No hassle of carrying luggage across multiple transfers.
Distance and Travel Time from Mettupalayam to Ooty
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Distance: Approximately 36 kilometers
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Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on traffic and weather)
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Route: Mettupalayam → Kallar → Burliar → Coonoor → Ooty
This road route is popular among travelers because it offers a smooth ride with breathtaking views of Nilgiri Hills.
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Cab
Booking a cab today is quick and easy, thanks to online platforms and local operators. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Book via Online Cab Platforms
Popular taxi apps and travel portals allow instant booking with transparent pricing.
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Platforms to Use:
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Ola Outstation
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Uber Intercity (availability may vary)
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Savaari Car Rentals
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Goibibo Cabs
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MakeMyTrip Outstation Taxi
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Local operators listed on Google
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Steps:
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Download/open the app or visit the website.
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Select Mettupalayam as the pickup location and Ooty as the destination.
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Choose a cab type (Sedan, SUV, Tempo Traveler for groups).
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Confirm date, time, and number of passengers.
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Make the payment (online/prepaid or cash at the end of the trip).
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2. Book Through Local Cab Operators
If you prefer personalized service, many local cab operators in Mettupalayam provide one-way and round-trip services.
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How to Find Them:
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Search Google Maps for “Mettupalayam to Ooty taxi service.”
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Check local business listings or ask your hotel for recommendations.
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Contact drivers directly via WhatsApp or phone.
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Advantages:
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Local drivers know the route, shortcuts, and safe driving practices on hairpin bends.
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Negotiable rates compared to fixed online platforms.
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Possibility of customizing sightseeing stops on the way (like Coonoor, Sims Park, Dolphin’s Nose, or tea factories).
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3. Book via Travel Agencies or Tour Packages
If you’re booking a full Ooty trip, travel agencies often include transfers in the package.
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Includes:
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Pick-up from Mettupalayam Railway Station or Coimbatore Airport.
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Transfers to Ooty with sightseeing on the way.
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Hotel accommodation + return cab.
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Best for: Tourists who want everything planned in advance without worrying about logistics.
Types of Cabs Available
Depending on your budget and group size, you can choose from different cab types:
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Hatchback (Indica, Wagon R) – Affordable option for 2–3 people.
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Sedan (Etios, Dzire) – Comfortable for small families.
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SUV (Innova, Ertiga, Xylo) – Spacious option for 5–7 travelers.
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Tempo Traveler – Ideal for larger groups or corporate outings.
Estimated Cab Fare from Mettupalayam to Ooty
While fares vary depending on season, cab type, and service provider, here’s a rough guide:
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Hatchback: ₹1,200 – ₹1,600
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Sedan: ₹1,600 – ₹2,000
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SUV: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000
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Tempo Traveler: ₹3,500 – ₹5,000
Tip: Booking a round trip or return cab is often cheaper than a one-way trip, as drivers charge for the return journey too.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
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Book in Advance: During peak season (April–June, December), cabs get fully booked quickly.
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Check Driver Credentials: Whether online or offline, ensure the driver is experienced in hill driving.
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Start Early: Begin the journey in the morning to avoid traffic and enjoy better weather conditions.
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Carry Essentials: Keep water, snacks, and motion-sickness medication handy, especially for kids.
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Sightseeing Option: Ask the driver if you can stop at attractions like Coonoor, Lamb’s Rock, or Catherine Falls en route.
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Emergency Numbers: Save the cab operator’s number and local helpline numbers for safety.
Advantages of Choosing a Cab Over Other Modes of Travel
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Compared to Train: While the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) is scenic, it has limited tickets and fixed timings.
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Compared to Bus: Public buses are cheap but crowded and less comfortable for families with luggage.
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Compared to Self-Drive: Driving on steep roads with hairpin bends can be challenging for those not used to hill driving. A professional driver ensures safety.
Popular Pickup Points in Mettupalayam
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Mettupalayam Railway Station (MTP): For tourists arriving by train from Chennai, Bangalore, or Coimbatore.
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Hotels and Lodges in Mettupalayam: Ideal for overnight stay tourists.
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Bus Stand: For those traveling from nearby towns.
Conclusion
Booking a cab from Mettupalayam to Ooty is the most convenient, safe, and comfortable way to reach the Queen of Hill Stations. With multiple options—online apps, local operators, and travel agencies - you can easily find a ride that suits your budget and needs. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, a cab ensures a smooth journey through the winding Nilgiri hills while you sit back, relax, and soak in the beauty around you.
So the next time you plan your Ooty trip, remember: all it takes is a simple cab booking from Mettupalayam to Ooty, and your hill station adventure begins!
