It is undeniably true that trains are India’s backbone, and they are amongst the most accessible and pleasant ways of transportation, particularly for lengthy journeys. In this, Indian Rail Travel guide for beginner’s we will cover the process of booking a rail ticket, different classes and its fares and more.
Compared to a bus journey, travelling by railways in India provides a different experience of better room and enhanced comfort. Indian Railways is always trying to ensure that passengers receive the most satisfactory service, comfort, efficiency, and speed while remaining cost-effective.
How to book a train ticket in India?
The Indian Railway normally necessitates the purchase of a ticket in advance, except for the general class. Also, booking your seat beforehand provides you with ease of mind and ensures you a secured seat on the train, ensuring your journey the much smoother. When purchasing a train ticket, you have two alternatives: You may book it online using the IRCTC portal, or you could reserve it physically by visiting the Indian Railways booking counters at the train station.
Cost of train tickets in India
Typically, the cost of a ticket is determined by the length of the trip and the class of travel. Solo premium or luxury trains are significantly more costly than others. Furthermore, if you ride in an air-conditioned class, you will have the option of ordering meals. If you are travelling in an unreserved cabin, you should bring your food.
Distance-based fares
- Travelling by 1AC/2AC costs around INR 1000-1200 for a 100-200 km trip, whilst 2nd class or sleeper class costs INR 50-140.
- Travelling by 1AC/2AC costs about INR 1300-2100 for a journey of 300-500 km, whilst 2nd class or sleeper cabin costs INR 100-240.
- Travelling by 1AC/2AC charges about INR 1900-5200 for a route of 1000-2000 miles, whilst 2nd class or sleeper class costs INR 500-1400.
Luxury Train Travel in India
If you enjoy the finer things in life and don’t mind spending a little more money, the Indian railways offer several luxurious trains in India that will embark you on a voyage you will cherish. So be prepared for that royal treatment and be pampered as you’ve never been before on a one-of-a-kind train excursion while soaking up India’s rich culture.
Other Train Travel in India with Classes
In this, Indian rail travel guide for beginner’s we are going to discuss further about different Indian train classes.
First Class AC
First Class AC is perhaps the costliest category, with fares comparable to airlines. This type of train travel in India is for those who desire to ride in style.
Because the doors may be fastened from the inside, privacy and security are excellent. In addition, there is a call attendant available at all times.
AC two-tier
It is mainly utilised for overnight trips and provides total convenience to the passengers. It lacks lockable doorways but does have curtains that provide seclusion for each bed.
AC three-tier
It has 64 sleeping beds in air-conditioned carriages.
Executive Class Chair Car
Air-conditioned chair carriage with plenty of legroom and seats. It is ideal for a day trip between two cities with four seats in a row.
AC Chair Car
An air-conditioned carriage with five rows of seats. Double Decker Express is also offered.
Sleeper Class
It contains conventional sleeping carriages with three beds directly opposing each other but no air conditioning. It is the most popular coach reserved by individuals choosing for rail travel in India.
General
The general class rail ticket is the most affordable and widely accessible. However, the carriages can get quite full; thus, it is best to choose general class only in an emergency.
You may also be interested in reading- Unknown Indian Railways Luggage Rules
Now book train tickets with redRail, a portal by redBus or you can download the redRail App for the easiest train ticket booking experience in India.