I truly wondered about this question…
One day recently, I climbed aboard a train in Sidney Australia while visiting friends in Bondi Beach, I learned that unlike Katumba which is in Tanzania, Katoomba is in New South Wales Australia and we, Judy and I could take the train there!
Let’s start off with a disclaimer.
We have no relationship with any of the establishments or productions mentioned in this article. They are simply places we visited or stayed or reflected on or enjoyed during our self funded travels. We share them with our readers for informational/editorial purposes.
How to Get to Katoomba
While driving is certainly an option, if you, like us, decided to not rent a car and drive around on what for us is the wrong side of the road, you will be pleased to know that the Opal Pass
you pre ordered or bought
Routes and Times to Katoomba per Google Maps
when you arrived in Sidney (see local book/news stands at the airport), will also serve to take you to Katoomba via the T4 train line in addition to getting you around Sidney proper on trains, busses, and including on the ferries. The trip to Katoomba takes a little short of three hours each way. So keep this transit time in mind when you plan your trip out and back.
What’s to see in Katoomba
There are many sights to see in Katoomba. Some are observable by driving/riding to look out points e.g. Echo Point and the Three Sisters. Other take a bit of a hike e.g. Wentworth Falls, and the Prince Henry Cliff walk.
Getting Around
Like the greater Sidney area there are public transport methods that those without a car can use to get around the area and see key sights like The Three Sisters. Your Opal pass should serve you in the Blue Mountains as well. The trip and some sight seeing can be done in a day returning to Sidney in the evening. Or you can overnight (or more) in the area and then you can travel back via train at your convenience (of course train schedules will dictate).
Staying in Katoomba
There are various lodging options in Katoomba. A selection of options can be found on Expedia. com Katoomba Hotels and other sites. The hotel we are planning a return trip to is the Carrington House . This establishment opened its doors in 1883 and has been serving the Sidney elite, international travelers to the Blue Mountains, and honeymooners for over 135 years.
There are of course a variety of lodging options from Camping and Hostels to 4 Star Hotels. So clearly there are many choices depending on your traveling preference.