Essential Tips for Traveling by Train in India

Train travel in India can be intimidating. It can be confusing to navigate the Indian Railway system, but once you figure it out, it isn’t so bad at all. The thing about India train travel is that it is always overbooked and very busy.

India Train Travel Tips

#1 Book Ahead of Time

The India Railway system is very complicated. You would be wise to know your entire itinerary and book ahead. Unfortunately for us, we are on a very loose schedule and like to go with the flow. We never know how long we want to stay in a place, so we don’t make travel arrangements ahead of time.

This often leads to headaches, but once we figured it out, we learned valuable lessons about traveling by train in India. Now, we can share our best train travel tips with you!

That first day we traveled by train in India, we had no idea where to stand on the platform, what car we should go in, or how to find our seats. Heck, we didn’t even know what our ticket meant.

Best Memories of India Happened on the Train

Some of our favorite experiences in India have taken place on the train. We have made new friends, enjoyed wonderful conversations, and mixed it up with the locals. General Class on Indian Rail is always an adventure and a ton of fun. People are a little surprised to see a tourist sitting in the General Class, but they quickly embrace you and look after you. Everyone is always willing to lend a hand.

How the India Railways System Works

#2 Use the IRCTC Website

The easiest way to book a ticket on India Rail is to do so online at http://www.irctc.co.in/. Make sure to have a printer handy to print out your ticket.

**Update** Since writing this article, we’ve learned of ClearTrip, a far more streamlined way to book tickets.

The first thing that you will need to know about train travel in India is the class system.

#3 Know What Class You Want

For overnight bookings, you will definitely want to be comfortable. You need to know the differences between the classes when you book your ticket, or you may end up on a very uncomfortable journey.

The Booking Process

Here are some tips to help make your train travel in India easier:

India Rail Classes:

1AC – Air conditioned, private room with locking doors, either 2 or 4 berth.
2AC – Air conditioned two tiered beds, 4 people to a berth.
3AC – Air conditioned, three tiered beds, 6 people to a berth.
CL – Chair Class, padded reclining seats with air conditioning.
SL – Sleeper Class, non air-conditioned tiered berths.
2nd class – unreserved seating, free for all.

Note: 1, 2, and 3 AC are travelers’ best bets for overnight trains.

They are clean, cool, and comfortable; plus, they are quiet, and you won’t be breathing in the fumes from the trains when they enter a tunnel. A local man from India who rode in 3 AC with us said, “SL (Sleeper Class) is loud, and you go insane listening to clickety-clack, clickety-clack.”

#4 How to Book Train Travel in India Online

• Visit http://www.indianrailways.gov.in/ to get your train number, information on what trains go to each station, and the station codes.
• Once you have all of the train information for your destination, go to http://www.irctc.co.in/ to book your train ticket.
• You can choose from several classes, but 2AC and 3AC are your best options for overnight trains.
• SL is a sleeper class and also a good choice, but remember that it is not air-conditioned and has less security. Moreover, it can be loud.
• Many travelers, including Canadians and people from the U.K., have experienced issues with credit card transactions. If you encounter problems, choose Axis PG as your payment method for Canadian cards.

For other countries, try the different methods of payment listed until you find one that works.

• Unless you book your train well ahead of time, you will most likely have a waitlist. If the waitlist isn’t too long, you have a good chance of having your rail ticket confirmed on your travel date, especially if you are on 3AC. However, 2AC can be problematic because there are fewer seats in that class.
• Your reservation will have a PNR number. If you have an unconfirmed train ticket (meaning you bought your ticket but are on a waitlist), you will need to check this on your travel date to see where you are sitting and if your seat is confirmed.

You can check this on http://www.indianrailways.gov.in/. You can also inquire by telephone; just ask your hotel reception for the local number to call. It is also on your e-ticket or railway ticket.

• A confirmed train ticket will have your seat number already printed on it. A Wait List ticket will not, but when you check your PNR number, it will give you a seat and car number.

#5 How to Book Your Train Ticket at the Station

A trip to the train station is always an adventure, and it is sometimes better to book at the station as they can assist you with any questions you may have.

• Go to the computer reservation desk at the station.
• Request a form first thing; don’t hesitate to go to the front of the line specifically for this.
• Complete the form while in line to avoid delays.

Note: Women often have their own line, so use it for a shorter wait.

• Know the exact name of the train station you want to visit. The stops may not have the same name as the city, and ticket agents may not recognize more generic terms.
• Expect a waiting list when booking tickets; Indian rail tickets often sell out quickly.
• Being 1 to 10 on the waiting list gives you a good chance to get your seat, particularly on 3AC.
• The earlier you book your tickets, the better your chances of getting the train you want.

#6 Finding Your Railway Car

Getting in the right car of the train can be confusing.

We got on the wrong car during our first trip because we didn’t know where to look for our number. As we learned, train travel in India is well organized; if you know where to look, you will find what you need.

1. Check the computer or large board to confirm your booking seat number.
2. Enter your PNR number, and the screen will provide all the necessary information.
3. Write down your information on your train ticket and check the electronic board for your train number and car number.
4. This will help you find out which platform you will be boarding from.
5. Proceed to the engine number that matches your train and car by number. This will be displayed on the board as well.
6. Wait at the engine number on the platform until your train arrives. Indian trains can be long, so ensure you’re in the right location.
7. Don’t take too long to board; trains may leave unexpectedly.

Insider Tips for Platform Navigation

1. Trains are often very long, and some stations can be quite confusing with multiple tracks.
2. Occasionally, stations may only provide computer printouts stapled to boards.
3. If only a board is available, find your train number and class on your ticket and match it to the board.
4. You can locate your seat number and car number this way.
5. However, you may receive platform information without knowing where to stand.

#7 Boarding the Train

Train travel is the easiest and most comfortable way to navigate the country. Here are some tips to keep in mind once you get on the train:

• When you board, it’s likely someone will be sitting in your seat. Simply inform them of your number, and they will accommodate you.
• Store your luggage under your seat immediately. This avoids clutter above and provides more space.
• Consider bringing a chain lock or travel-safe; on a 3AC Sleeper train, you could be three beds high, and it’s easy to lose track of belongings.
• Food is provided but not complimentary; water, chai, and sodas are typically available for purchase. There is always someone selling snacks and drinks.
• Set an alarm. No one will wake you for your stop; it’s entirely your responsibility.
• Familiarize yourself with a few stops before yours. Most trains do not announce stops, so be vigilant.
• Gather all your belongings in advance and be prepared; sometimes trains halt for a long time, while at other times, they depart quickly.

Train Travel in India is Fun

[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rF7DshvcZJw[/embedyt]

Traveling by train in India can be enjoyable and is a fantastic way to connect with the people. When you find yourself in close quarters, you inevitably start conversations and make new friends.

By the time your stop arrives, you might hesitate to leave the train, having formed bonds during your journey.

#8 What to Do if You Can’t Reserve a Ticket?

India’s trains are often overbooked, and securing a seat weeks in advance is essential; at times, you may find yourself unable to board a train. However, if you find yourself on a waitlist, don’t lose hope.

Go to the train station anyway.

Purchase a general class ticket for your desired destination and check where the AC Chair Class, 3A, or 2A classes will arrive on the platform. We’ve successfully boarded 3A and Chair Class this way by simply asking the train captain for available seats.

You will have to pay the upgrade, but this process is completely legitimate, and you’ll be issued a receipt allowing you to stay in your chair or bed throughout the journey.

#9 Beware of Scams

However, there are occasions when individuals may pose as India Rail employees and attempt to scam tourists. Always ensure you are speaking with the actual train captain, identifiable by their navy blue jacket and accompanying charts.

They will assist local passengers as well, which is a good indicator of authenticity.

#10 Know the Number of the Train You Are Booking

When purchasing a ticket to Delhi, ensure that you know the express train number that includes AC cars. We’ve erred by not confirming our tickets online and instead boarding the first train that arrived. Although it headed in the right direction, it was a general class train, stopping at every station and prolonging our journey.

#11 If the Entire Train is General Seating Train Only, Don’t Get On

Such trains stop at every station along the way; our four-hour journeys have turned into nine-hour epic rides due to this mistake. Typically, trains with AC and sleeper classes are more direct and stop less frequently.

#12 Don’t Be in a Hurry When Taking the Train

India Rail operates slowly, often stopping at stations for extended periods. Just take a deep breath and accept that you will be on the train for a while.

#13 Most Train Stations Have a Prepaid Taxi Booth

Avoid getting involved with touts on the platform offering rickshaw rides; their prices may not be favorable. Instead, look for prepaid taxi booths at major train stations for fair deals.

#14 If You Know Your Itinerary, Book All Your Tickets in Advance

You can arrange your India Rail Tickets up to two months in advance. If you have fixed travel plans, it is wise to book online via the IRCTC Passenger Reservation site.

#15 Get Ready to Body Check Someone

Arriving at busy train stations can lead to chaotic situations where passengers board without letting others disembark. Be prepared to navigate through crowds and push your way off the train; this is often part of the experience.

#16 Don’t Stand Close to the Door with Your Packs On

The train doors remain open during travel, and some people may jump off while the train is still moving. It is advisable to avoid standing near open doors with your backpack on to prevent accidents.

#17 Keep Back from the Tracks

Accidents can occur when people rush as trains approach. If you have reserved seats, there’s no need to rush into the car; wait for the train to arrive.

If you follow the guidelines mentioned earlier, you will know where to stand on the platform to access the correct car safely.

#18 Eat the Food

Some of the best food available in India can be found on trains. Your options include chai, tomato soup, pakoras, and full meals such as biryani, omelets, and curries, all at reasonable prices (5 to 20 rupees). Enjoying the street food vendors at train stations is an experience you won’t want to miss!

And That’s How to Travel by India Railways

There you have it. Navigating train travel in India should be manageable. Just remember to enjoy yourself! Indian Railways may seem intimidating, but they offer unforgettable experiences. The scenery is lovely, and the people you meet are friendly. So, be sure to plan your route carefully, book your tickets early, and know your destination.