Last week, the Madras High Court mandated the Tamil Nadu government to implement an e-pass system for vehicles entering the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal, aiming to alleviate congestion in these hill stations during the bustling summer tourist season.
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Who needs this e-pass?
An e-pass is required for tourists driving into the Nilgiris hills, including Ooty and Kodaikanal, this summer. Local residents and tourists arriving via government buses are exempt from this requirement.
How can you apply for an e-pass for Ooty or Kodaikanal?
To obtain an e-pass for Ooty or Kodaikanal travel till June 30, you can apply through the official website epass.tnega.org. Necessary details such as the number of passengers, vehicle specifications, entry and exit dates, purpose of visit, and address must be provided. The e-pass issued will contain a QR code, which will be scanned at entry points in Ooty and Kodaikanal.
How to reach Ooty or Kodaikanal?
By Train: The nearest major railway station to Ooty is Mettupalayam, which is about 47 kilometers away. For Kodaikanal, the nearest railway stations are Kodai Road and Palani.
By Air: The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport, which is approximately 88 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ooty. For Kodaikanal, the nearest airports are Madurai Airport and Coimbatore International Airport. Some popular flight routes to coimbatore include Chennai to Coimbatore, Bengaluru to Coimbatore, Delhi to Coimbatore and popular flight routes to Madurai include Chennai to Madurai, Delhi to Madurai, Vishakhapatnam to Madurai
By Bus: State-run and private buses operate regular services to Ooty and Kodaikanal from major cities and towns in Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states. These buses provide a convenient and affordable option for travellers.
