EPASS For Ooty: Know How To Apply Based On Your Location

As of April 1, 2025, an EPASS for Ooty has become mandatory. This will remain applicable till 30th June.

Additionally, having an EPASS has become compulsory for travelers to Ooty and Kodaikanal, following the Madras High Court’s verdict on May 7, 2024. This is a great attempt to protect the popular hill stations and the ecosystems centered around the Nilgiris.

Lakshmi Pavya, the Nilgiris District Collector, has mentioned,

“From April 1, e-passes will be issued only to a limited number of vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis each day. Checkposts have been set up to verify e-passes before allowing vehicles to proceed.”

You can collect the pass online. Also, you will be able to scan the EPASS at the QR code verification facilities at the checkposts.

Hi, in this Dream and Travel Guide, I will discuss a step-by-step guide on how to get an EPASS for Ooty and Kodaikanal. However, before that, I will share a brief account of why getting this EPASS is mandatory.

Why Is EPass Mandatory For Ooty?

The Madras High Court gave the verdict making an EPASS mandatory for Ooty (Nilgiris District) and Kodaikanal to limit the number of motor vehicles overflooding the roads at Kodaikanal and Nilgiris.

I also faced a similar issue during the Hyderabad to Ooty trip and even a visit to the Guna Cave.

With the EPASS system being implemented from 1st April 2025, a total of 6000 vehicles can now run in the Nilgiris. On weekends, the permitted number is 8,000.

For Kodaikanal, the permitted number of vehicles during the weekdays is 4000, and during weekends, the number is 6000.

Furthermore, tourists traveling in e-vehicles to Ooty, Kodaikanal, or the Nilgiris will get preference while getting an EPASS.

Also, the restriction does not apply to people who are traveling by public buses (TNSTC/SETC) and trains. Local vehicles and vehicles carrying essential goods are also exempt from these restrictions.

How To Book EPASS For Ooty? (From Within And Outside India)

Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to get an EPASS for Ooty in the Nilgiris District.

How To Take EPass For Ooty Or Kodaikanal If You Are From India?

1. You have to first visit the EPASS for Ooty official website and select “Within India” from the two options given.

2. Then, you will have to furnish your mobile number and enter the captcha correctly. You will receive an OTP on your phone number for logging in.

visit the EPASS for Ooty official website

Once you log in, you will get five options.

you will have to furnish your mobile number and enter the captcha correctly

Nilgiris
Kodaikanal
Localite Pass
Previous Passes and Pending Applications
Share Feedback

4. When you click on Nilgiris for Ooty or Kodaikanal, you will be redirected to the TN ePass Application Page.

Here, you will have to fill in your name, address, place of stay, vehicle registration number, date of entry, date of exit, and other details.

5. After submitting all the details, you will receive a confirmation pop-up with the restrictions while visiting these areas.

6. Now, once you click on the confirm button, you will get an EPASS issued for your vehicle. You can download it.

How to Apply EPass For Ooty If You Are From Outside India?

To collect an EPASS for Ooty Kodaikanal as a visitor from outside India, you will have to furnish your email ID and fill in the captcha correctly.

Once you log in, select the location you want to visit and fill in the necessary details to get your EPASS.

OTP verification here happens through your email ID. This may take a little extra time.

What Is The Price Of An EPass For Ooty Online?

You don’t need to pay any price to get an EPASS for Ooty. It is just a measure to control traffic and prevent overtourism in Kodaikanal, Ooty, and the Nilgiris.

What Is The Eligibility For Getting An EPASS For Ooty?

Check out the travel below to know the eligibility criteria for getting an EPASS for Ooty.

Criteria for Getting an EPASS for Ooty	Details
Travel Origin	India or Abroad
Purpose of Visit	Tourism, business, or any other legitimate reason
Documents	Aadhar Card Passport Visa (for Foreigners) Driving License Vehicle Registration Car Insurance Documents Pollution Certificates Ration Card Details of your Trip

Things To Keep In Mind While Getting An EPASS For Ooty

A timely application is important if you want to get an EPASS for Ooty. Ideally, you must apply for the pass at least 48 hours before your journey.

Also, show your EPASS and a valid ID proof at the checkpoint to get entry.

Moreover, be respectful toward the local culture and environment. Do not litter or cause harm to the fragile ecosystems.

Do I Need To Buy An EPASS If I Am From Nilgiris?

You do not need an EPASS for the Nilgiris if you have a vehicle registered under TN 43. Also, if you have transferred your registration to TN 43 after prior registration of your vehicle in another district, you are eligible for an EPASS exemption.

You have to visit the Udhagai Regional Transport Office and show your original registration, pollution certificates, and insurance documents for verification.

Where Are The EPASSes For Nilgiris Checked?

These are the checkposts in Nilgiris for checking your EPASS.

Kunjapanai
Kallar,
Masinagudi
Geddai
Mel Gudalur

After the verdict on 7th April, you do not need to show your EPASS at checkposts such as Pattavayal, Thalur, Nadugani, Kakkanalla, and Choladi.

Is EPASS Required For Ooty’s Tourism Development? How Is The Verdict Impacting The Stakeholders?

The Tamil Nadu government moved to the Madras High Court to challenge the verdict of EPASSEs being mandatory.

The government showed difficulties in administration and the operations of stakeholders, including local businesses, while challenging this verdict.

Also, the government mentioned that making an EPASS for Ooty, Kodaikanal, or Nilgiris can damage the local economy, which is dependent on tourism. It may even trigger the shutdown of the allied industries.

“It is without doubt that environmental and ecological considerations should be given more importance when it comes to the preservation of eco-sensitive zones, but an even balance has to be maintained between environmental considerations and the promotion of tourism industry, taking into consideration the livelihood of those dependent on tourism-related activities.”

State of Tamil Nadu, Challenging the Verdict of Madras High Court.

However, as of today, getting an EPASS for Ooty and Kodaikanal remains mandatory. Further, April to June is the best time to visit Kodaikanal. So, don’t miss your chance now.

Also, plan a visit to the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO), the best place for stargazing in India