Don’t leave India without experiencing at least one train ride. Travelling by train will allow you to connect with people on a deeper level. Around 90% of Indians prefer trains over other modes of transportation. Trains in India are cheap, reliable, and convenient.

When is Traveling by Train the Ideal Choice?

• If you’ve never travelled  by train before.
• If you have extra time.
• If you are short on cash.
• If you are considering an overnight journey.
• If your final destination is a smaller city.
• If the train station is more centrally located than the airport.

Common Travel Classes in Train

You can choose between the following most common ticket classes:

• First Class AC (1A): Enclosed cabin with four beds (berths), two at the bottom and two at the top, which you can open if desired.
• Two-tier AC (2A): Similar to First Class but with a curtain instead of a lockable door, and you can’t open the window.
• Three-tier AC (3A): Similar to Two-tier AC, but with six bunks per cabin (three on each side).
• AC Chair Cars (CC): These feel more like airline seats with rows of chairs and are available on certain trains, usually Shatabdi, which run during the day.
• Sleeper Class (SL): Similar to Three-tier AC but without air conditioning. The windows remain open at all times. This is the most common type of  ticket.

Other classes are available, but they are either uncommon or not recommended for foreigners unfamiliar with the language.

Selecting a Berth

If you book in 3A or a 2A class of travel, you may be asked to choose your preferred berth. The lower and middle berths (in 3A) are fine as well since the middle bed is stored upright most of the time.

The “side upper” and “side lower” berths don’t share a cabin but are located in the middle of the car. 

Waitlists

If all seats are booked, you’ll be put on a waitlist when booking your train ticket. If people cancel their tickets or as other seats become available, you will move up the list.

Consider how many seats are available on the train when booking a waitlisted ticket. For example, if you are number 15 on a waitlist for a Sleeper Class seat on a train with 500 seats, you’ll likely get a seat. However, if you’re number 15 on a waitlist for a First Class AC (1A) car with only 12 seats, your chances are slim unless other passengers cancel their tickets  

If you’re still on the waitlist, you cannot board the train. However, if your ticket is reserved against cancellation (RAC), you can board the train but your seat will not be confirmed unless any passenger cancels their tickets  A few hours before departure, find the Ticket Taker Examiner (TTE) at the station. He will tell you where to sit and will help you find an empty seat once the train starts moving.

You will need your PNR (Passenger Record Number) number, which is mentioned on your ticket, whether you’re on a waitlist, RAC, or have a confirmed seat.

Key Tips for Booking Train Tickets –  Plan Ahead and Consider Weather

• Do your Train Ticket Booking as soon as your plans are confirmed. Popular routes may sell out within the first week.
• AC cars are quite good but won’t be very helpful if you travel in extremely hot weather conditions.

Maximizing Your Train Journey – Tips and Insights

• One advantage of train travel is that you can arrive at the station just a minute before departure and still can board the train . 
• Ask anyone at the station how to get to your platform. Find your train coach or the area where it will stop. The cars are marked as Sleeper, Three Tier AC, or similar. Check the coach number, as there could be more than one car in your ticket class. Once in the car, find your seat number.
• If you encounter any issues, find the TTE, who will be happy to assist. Show him your valid National ID when he checks your ticket.
• If you’re in 3A class or any class level above 3A, you’ll receive a pillow, blanket, and sheets. You need not bring your own. It can be quite cold in the AC travel classes, especially in 1A and 2A where there are less passengers travelling. Wear layers suitable for the season.  
• You can work or read on your laptop much more easily on a train than on an airplane or bus. You’re free to walk around whenever you like. You can also stand between cars to enjoy the scenery as it passes.
• On a Shatabdi train, meals are included in the ticket price. The meal will consist of chapati (Indian flatbread), rice, and two gravies. You’ll also receive snacks along the way. 

Conclusion

Travelling by train in India offers more than just transportation. It’s a cultural immersion experience that allows you to discover the country. Indian trains can be tailored to suit your needs, whether you are on a tight budget, want to take the trip in comfort, or have extra time. This guide will help you understand the nuances of Indian train travel, from the various ticket classes to the lively atmosphere in the train stations. Book your tickets in advance and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

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