All About Train Ticket Booking in India

Introduction

Travelling by train opens up a rich diversity, culture and connectivity. It is an integral part of India’s transportation network. Since millions of ticket bookings occur daily, the efficiency of the train ticket booking system is of the utmost importance. This article discusses the delicate details of India’s train ticket booking system, train running status, and tips and tricks for a smooth booking experience.        

Evolution of Train Ticket Booking in India

The Indian Railways started operating around 170 years ago. With technological advancements over the years, it has undergone many changes. 

Historical background of train ticket booking methods

In 1985, the Indian Railways started a pilot project for computerised tickets. In 1986, at the New Delhi Railway Station, the first computerised ticket was given to a passenger. 

• Earlier, the train ticket booking process would take place manually at the ticket windows at railway stations.
• The employee at the ticket counter would cross-check the number of available seats on the train and assign seats accordingly. 
• There was no guarantee that you would get the ticket, even after long hours in the queue. 
• The tickets were printed on small cardboard-like pieces of paper and were delivered at home.

Introduction of online booking systems

Indian Railways launched the I-Ticket Facility nearly two decades after the advent of computerised tickets. 

• I-Ticket booking started in 2002 through the IRCTC official website. 
• Passengers would book their tickets online, and IRCTC would deliver them home by courier.
• In 2005, e-ticket booking was introduced and is still being used today.
• Today, India’s Passenger Reservation System (PRS) is the world’s largest train ticket booking system.
• Passengers can book tickets from 8074 windows at 2022 different places. 

Advantages of Online Train Ticket Booking

IRCTC provides the following advantages when booking tickets online:

• Safe and easy transactions.
• Eliminates the payment approval cycle and saves booking time.
• It helps save payment gateway charges for each ticket.
• Helped manage accounts online and top up funds easily.
• Reduces dependency on banks as it allows the user to pay offline.    

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Train Tickets Online

There are seven easy steps for registering and booking tickets through the IRCTC eWallet:

• Login to the IRCTC portal using your username and password.
• In the Plan My Travel page, under the IRCTC eWallet section, click on the IRCTC eWallet Registration link.
• Provide your PAN card, Aadhar and other details to complete the verification process.
• Deposit the one-time registration fee of Rs 50 (excluding service tax) online.
• Redemption and membership fees can be changed at IRCTC’s discretion. 
• Credit a minimum of Rs 1000 in the IRCTC eWallet and top up whenever necessary. The maximum deposit amount in the wallet is Rs 10,000.
• You can use the IRCTC eWallet at the time of train ticket booking.

Tips and Tricks for Smooth Booking Experience

Booking a train ticket is an important part of train travel in India. Here are some tips and tricks to make your journey smooth and hassle-free:

Advance Bookings:

IRCTC allows train ticket bookings to be made 120 days in advance. Considering the volume of bookings, popular destinations and routes, and preferred classes, tickets sell out quickly. To ensure you get your preferred class and seat, it is best to book your tickets as soon as possible.

The Tatkal Scheme:

The Indian Railways offers Tatkal tickets for last-minute travel plans. These can be booked one day before your journey. The Tatkal window opens at 10 a.m. for AC classes and at 11 a.m. for non-AC classes. It is best to book right when the windows open, as they come with an extra premium and are in high demand.

Flexible Travel Plans:

Getting your preferred choice of ticket is not guaranteed. To increase your chances of getting a reservation, it is important to stay flexible with your travel plans. Try opting for off-season dates or different routes. 

Use the Foreign Tourist Quota:

Most trains give their international travellers a dedicated quota. This allows faster access to their choice of tickets. Booking under foreign quota is available at all stations and on the IRCTC website.

Cancellation Charges:

Indian Railways uses a tiere cancellation charge system. The charge depends on how close to the departure date you opt for a cancellation. Understanding the cancellation policy is a good idea if your travel plans are liable to change. 

Understanding Train Running Status

The train running status of the train is the information about its last location along with the estimated time of arrival and departure. It is the real-time tracking of GPS-enabled trains in India. 

Importance of Train Running Status for Travelers

The train running system is important for two kinds of travellers:

• Those who are already on the train: these passengers want continuous updates about the train’s estimated arrival time so that they can make plans accordingly. 
• Those who have yet to board the train: These passengers wish to be updated about the train’s arrival time so they can reach the station on time.

Methods to Check Train Running Status Online

The best way to check the train running status is through Railofy’s IRCTC-approved train running status. 

• It offers up-to-date and reliable data about your respective trains. 
• This feature allows passengers to find the estimated arrival and departure time, the distance between stations, and more.

Conclusion

India has an extensive railway network. Hence, we need to have a good train ticket booking system. We have shifted from manual booking to online reservations, keeping convenience as the aim. Passengers enjoy a comfortable journey from start to finish through features like advanced booking, train running status, and the Tatkal system.

FAQs on Train Ticket Booking in India

Can tickets booked online be shown on the device?

Yes, tickets booked online can be shown on the device. Most railways accept e-tickets in PDF form or on your device as valid proof of train ticket booking. 

Are train ticket bookings guaranteed?

Getting your preferred choice of ticket is only sometimes guaranteed. However, Railofy offers a confirmation guarantee on your bookings. If your ticket still needs to be confirmed, they will provide a refund for a smooth booking experience.

Are any special quotas available for foreign tourists booking train tickets in India?

Most trains give their international travellers a dedicated quota. This allows faster access to their choice of tickets. Booking under foreign quota is available at all stations and on the IRCTC website or app.

What do ETA and ETD mean in the train running status?

ETA and ETD in the train running status are ‘Estimated Time or Arrival’ and ‘Estimated Time of Departure’, respectively.

Is there an official IRCTC app that checks the train running status?

Railofy is an IRCTC-approved app that provides real-time and accurate data on your train running status.