The Smart Traveller’s Guide to Booking Indian Train Tickets

Train travel within India is the most convenient and cheapest option, especially if you can select the class of travelavel that allows you to travel comfortably.

Suppose you plan to travel across India by train. In that case, it’s recommended that you familiarise yourself with the different classes of night and day train services and their particular characteristics. Whether you purchase train tickets on your own or contact a travel agency for assistance, being well-informed will help you avoid surprises. Train travel can be a comfortable experience and provides an enjoyable way to interact with locals that is incomparable to any other mode of transport.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Train Ticket in India

Here are the steps you should follow to make a reservation for an Indian train ticket:

1. Choose a Travel Agency:

   • For convenience and seamless booking, use travel portals like redRail. You can also book through authorized travel agents or railway stations. If booking from outside India, select a travel agency that accepts international cards. Many Indian portals don’t, so using an agency ensures smooth payment and secure reservations.

2. Identify Your Route:

   • Determine the route you must travel and the stations you are interested in.
   • There are various trains that run through the stations you are searching for, but travel durations can vary significantly depending on the type of train you choose, sometimes taking double or triple the time.

3. Select the Right Class of Travel:

   • Once you have identified the train you want to travel on, the available seats in various classes will be displayed.
   • It is crucial to know the comfort level of each class.

4. Enter Your Personal Details:

   • Provide the passenger’s personal information, including name, gender, age, and passport details.

5. Wait for Your Ticket:

   • After your reservation, you must wait for the ticket to arrive in your inbox.
   • Typically, the agency must perform a manual check to verify the ticket, so the final ticket with the PNR Status and seat number may take up to 24 hours to arrive.

Travel Classes on Night Trains

Night trains in India are designed for long journeys that last overnight. Train journeys can last two or even three days, with India’s longest train route running between Amritsar and Guwahati, taking almost four days. These trains are categorised into classes that date back to the colonial era. The Indian Railways transitioned from wooden seats in the 1960s to the air-conditioned options available today. Here are the four main classes of night trains, listed from lowest to highest:

• SL – Sleeper Class:

  • The most popular class for long-distance trains, frequented by travellers who backpack across India.
  • It is a low-cost option that allows you to travel long distances for the least amount of money.
  • The cabins can accommodate eight people, with the front seats convertible into a triple berth and two aisle seats forming two separate berths.
  • However, many passengers with unconfirmed tickets may board and take up vacant seats, especially during holidays or religious occasions.

• 3AC – Third Class:

  • Among the various travel classes, the 3AC is recommended if you want to travel at a reasonable cost while enjoying some comfort.
  • The seating arrangement is similar to that of the Sleeper Class but with air conditioning.
  • Unlike Sleeper Class, which has wooden shutters and large windows, 3AC cars have glass windows that shut tightly to regulate the temperature.
  • Additionally, there are typically fewer passengers in 3AC, reducing the chance of someone occupying your seat.

• 2AC – Second Class:

  • Each coach contains four berths,two on either side and two additional beds at the end of the hall, allowing for more space when seated or resting.
  • Staff often make the beds and provide fresh bedsheets, pillows, and blankets.
  • Most trainsoffer food service, with staff taking orders and serving meals.

• 1AC – First Class:

  • This class is less common on night trains today.
  • While it was once the most luxurious option, its price and availability have made it a secondary choice to flying.
  • 1AC compartments come with four beds and a small door for privacy.
  • The staff prepares your bed;food is usually included during the journey if you order during the ticket booking process

Train Berth Codes

• UB: Upper Berth – Accessible at any time during the journey.
• MB: Middle Berth – Typically only available for sleeping.
• LB: Lower Berth – Serves as both a seating area and a sleeping area.
• SU: Side Upper – Smaller than the main compartment berths, enclosed by curtains for privacy.
• SL: Side Lower – Similar to the side upper, this berth faces forward and offers some privacy.

Classes and Features of Shatabdi & Vande Bharat Trains

In the past decade, Indian Railways has introduced intercity trains that connect major cities (e.g., Delhi-Amritsar, Delhi-Bhopal, Delhi-Lucknow). These trains, known as Shatabdi Express, operate between 6 and 8 hours and typically include catering services.

The latest addition to the train network is the Vande Bharat Express, the most modern, comfortable, and fastest train currently in operation. If you can find this train on your desired route, I highly recommend it, as it offers food service, comfortable seating, and clean bathroom facilities.

First Class (1AC)

• The first class on Shatabdi Express trains has a seating layout of four seats on one side and two seats on the other.
• This class is comfortable and has a low occupancy rate, often leaving seats available at the last minute.

AC Chair Car (CC)

• Most Shatabdi Express trains feature an AC Chair Car configuration, with six seats on one side and four on the other.
• The AC is controllable, and there are plugs available for devices.
• Vande Bharat trains also offer entertainment options.

Both Vande Bharat and Shatabdi Express provide meals, including tea, snacks, and a main meal during the journey.

Alternative Day Trains

For a more affordable option, the Janshatabdi Express is available, featuring basic carriages without catering. There are two types of trains in the Janshatabdi category:

• 1AC (Air-Conditioned): This wagon includes air conditioning but has seating similar to second class, with no food service.
• CC (Chair Car without AC): These single-seat carriages have no air conditioning, which may be adequate during cooler months but can be uncomfortable in summer and monsoon seasons.
• Reserved Seating (UR): These seats are not reserved and often result in crowded conditions. They lack padding, have six chairs per row, and are not available on all trains.

Indian Local Train Classes of Travel 

In major cities like Mumbai and Delhi, there are local trains for shorter journeys. The seats on regional trains aren’t reserved, allowing passengers to sit wherever there is space. In many cases, passengers crowd the available spaces or hang onto the doors.

• First-Class Compartment: Generally has fewer passengers.
• Second-Class Compartment: Where most passengers travel.

Local metro trains often have cars reserved exclusively for female passengers to prevent overcrowding. Foreign female travellers may also use the women-only compartments, but if travelling with a male companion, they must use the general carriage. There are no exceptions to this rule.

Conclusion

The train journey in India can be a rewarding experience that gives visitors a unique view of the landscape and culture of this diverse nation. Following the steps described in this article, you will be able to enjoy an easy and smooth journey, beginning with selecting the best class to understand the berth codes.

In the case of IRCTC Ticket Booking, becoming knowledgeable and well-prepared will enhance your experience. If you decide to book your tickets with a reputable travel agent or directly through the redRail website, knowing the various trains and the available options will allow you to make effective use of your trip. Begin to experience the excitement that awaits you along India’s railways and experience the peace and fun that trains have to provide!