Indian railways offer a unique experience of their own. India is a vast country, and taking advantage of trains will help you save a lot of cash. Since it takes hours to travel anywhere in India, it’s tempting to fly within the country. As simple and fast as it may sound, however, once you begin adding up the cost, it can be costly.
Indian Railways: The Most Affordable Method of Transportation
In fact, the Indian trains are, without a doubt, the most affordable method of travelling around India. We’ll do our best to make it as simple to comprehend as we can so that you don’t make huge booking errors!
Checking your PNR Status
PNR changes can prove a bit complex, but in the end, it’s normal to be placed on a waitlist when you make a reservation for a train, particularly if you make your reservation at the last second.
It is essential to verify your PNR status via the redRail prior to departing to see whether your tickets have been confirmed or not.
Beware of Bookshops before you book
Indian railways are utilized by around 17-20 million people each day, which means that it’s always busy.
If you’ve not booked your flight yet and see numbers such as ‘Availability75,’ it means that there are available seats, and you are free to go ahead and reserve your seat.
If you do notice a figure such as “RAC87/RAC74”, it means that, although you will definitely be guaranteed seats in the coach, you might not be able to get a sleeper. It is only possible to have an overnight birth if there are enough passengers who have to leave.
If you spot a figure such as ‘GNWL54/WL4’, it signifies that all seats, beds, and seats in the RAC have been reserved, and you are not guaranteed an opportunity to sit on the train. “GL” refers to a general waitlist.
After Booking your train tickets
You may have already booked your train tickets, however, you’ll be able to examine your PNR status until you board the train.
You may have a different PNR status compared to the examples I’ve given previously. It provides greater detail and provides additional PNR examples.
Train Carriages Glossary
The most difficult aspect of the process of booking Indian trains is choosing the type of carriage and Class to reserve. In contrast to UK train services, the distinction between different classes is huge.
1 AC 1st Class with air conditioning
It is the Class with the highest cost. There are typically 2 or 4 birth chambers. Doors are locked, and the areas have curtains for privacy. The meals are included.
2 AC 2- 2nd class with air conditioning
In addition, there are generally two or four birth compartments which are generally two-tiered beds. Curtains surround them to provide privacy, and the beds are converted into seats for people who prefer to sit upright.
3 AC 3rd class air conditioning
3-tier beds that are arranged in groups of 6 in an open carriage. It is the model we recommend for those who want to save money but still desire some extra luxury.
AC Executive Chair
A comfortable seating vehicle with recliners. There are no beds, but plenty of room.
Sleeper Class
Open-plan carriages featuring 3-tired beds. There is no air conditioning, but the windows are fully open.
Reserved 1st Class Unreserved
It is the most affordable carriage—a lot of chairs as well as a lot of people all around. The price isn’t the cheapest, but perhaps not the most suitable for an extended journey!
Important Things to Consider while booking train tickets
This is all the essential information you should know prior to making a reservation for a train ride that runs on Indian railways! It’s not a bad idea to keep these points in mind so that you’re well-prepared for your journey.
In the sleeper carriages (1AC, 3AC, 2AC, and 1AC ), bedding is available.
People are going up and down the train carrying tea, water, and snacks for the lower classes but not for the upper classes. However, the train rides are long; therefore, make sure you drink plenty of water and food.
Sometimes, trains will stop for 20 minutes about halfway through to allow passengers to leave and eat. Therefore, if you are able to monitor your journey using redRail, it’s worth taking the time to do so.
It can get quite cold in AC cabins; therefore, make sure you’ve got a sweater or blanket for long trips.
Train classes are different on certain trains. Certain trains only have seating for passengers, such as the Shatabdi Express.
For New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, Indian railways have assigned eight carriages for women-only use. In the event that you’re a single female traveller, it could make you feel more comfortable by reserving a seat on one of these trains.
Do keep these points in mind and enjoy your Indian Railways journey!
