Katoomba is the largest town in the Blue Mountains and a major hub for visitors exploring the region. Located about 100 kilometres west of Sydney, it’s well known for its lookouts, bushwalking tracks, and historic town centre. The town is easy to reach by train or car, with the Great Western Highway running through it and the railway station offering a direct line to Sydney.
Echo Point and the Three Sisters
The most popular spot in Katoomba is Echo Point, a large viewing platform overlooking the Three Sisters rock formation and the Jamison Valley. From here, several walking tracks lead into the valley and along the cliff edge, including the Three Sisters Walk.
Scenic World, another major drawcard, offers a cableway, railway, and skyway that provide different ways to experience the surrounding cliffs and rainforest. This tourist hot spot is located close to Katoomba Falls, one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Blue Mountains.
Town Centre
Katoomba’s town centre features a mix of cafés, restaurants, and shops, many of them set in heritage buildings along Katoomba Street. You’ll also find art galleries, bookstores, and live music venues, giving the town a creative and trendy vibe. The historic Carrington Hotel, which dates back to the late 1800s, is a well-known local landmark.
Walks and Lookouts
Away from the main tourist areas, Katoomba is also the starting point for several lesser-known walks and lookouts. Cahill’s Lookout and Narrow Neck Plateau both offer panoramic views without the crowds, while the Minnehaha Falls Walk leads to a secluded waterfall and swimming spot.
Stay
There’s no shortage of places to stay in Katoomba, with everything from budget hostels to boutique hotels on offer. Its central location makes it a handy base for exploring the rest of the Blue Mountains, with nearby towns like Leura and Wentworth Falls just a short drive or train ride away.
With its combination of iconic lookouts, walking trails, and historic character, Katoomba is at the heart of tourism in the Blue Mountains.
| Katoomba | |
|---|---|
| Drive from Sydney: | 102 km / 85 minutes (M4) |
| Train from Sydney: | 115-125 minutes (BMT Line) |
| Elevation: | 1,017 metres |
| Population: | Approx 8,500 |
| Postcode: | 2780 |
