Train travel in India always forms part of a journey that is economical and comfortable. But you might have wondered what the right time is for train ticket booking. If that is not the case, then this blog is meant for you. With the right information, you can not only plan your journey better but also save money and time. Let’s know in detail in this article every piece of information related to train ticket booking time.
1. Why is the right time for train ticket booking time important?
It is important to decide the time for train ticket booking time because:
- Early booking gives confirmed tickets.
- Money is saved. Booking in the early days gives tickets at lower fares.
- Avoid overcrowding. Seats get filled quickly during festive seasons or holidays.
- If you book tickets at the right time, then not only will you make your journey smooth but also avoid hassle.
2. How to decide the time for train ticket booking?
To know the right time for train ticket booking, keep in mind the following tips:
- Advance Reservation Period (ARP): Indian Railways allows ticket booking 120 days in advance. That means you can book tickets 4 months before the journey.
- Keep in mind the festive season and holidays: Seats get filled quickly during Dussehra, Diwali, Holi, or summer holidays.
- Tatkal ticket timing: If you want to book tickets at the last minute, use the Tatkal service. Tatkal booking starts at 10 am for AC coaches and 11 pm for sleeper class.
- Midnight booking: Many passengers prefer to book tickets after 12 pm, as the server load is less then.
3. Difference in time between online and offline ticket
Online booking:
The time for booking tickets from the IRCTC website and mobile app is 24/7, but booking is closed from 11:45 PM to 12:20 AM due to server updates.
Tatkal ticket booking starts at the fixed time in the morning.
Offline booking:
Booking time at the reservation counter of the railway station is usually from 8 am to 8 pm.
Online booking is becoming more popular, but offline booking is more common in villages and small towns.
