How to Book Tatkal Train Tickets: Secure Last-Minute Train Travel
04 April, 2024
Synopsis
This comprehensive guide simplifies the process of booking tatkal train tickets via the IRCTC app.
It highlights the importance of being timely and prepared, especially considering the high demand and fast-paced nature of tatkal ticket booking.
By adhering to these guidelines, travellers can significantly enhance their chances of securing a confirmed tatkal ticket, making their urgent travel plans more manageable and less stressful.
Booking tatkal train tickets can be a crucial task for those with last-minute travel plans. With the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) app, securing tatkal train tickets is made accessible, albeit with certain challenges due to high demand. This guide provides a comprehensive guide on how to book tatkal tickets using the IRCTC app, along with strategic tips to enhance the likelihood of obtaining confirmed tickets.
For those pondering how to book tatkal ticket fast, it is imperative to understand the timing and pricing structure of tatkal bookings. Tatkal ticket bookings open one day before the travel date. For example, if your travel date is on the 9th of September, your booking window opens on the morning of the 8th. Specifically, bookings for AC classes start at 10 a.m., while for non-AC classes, booking begin at 11 a.m.
In terms of cost, the price of a tatkal ticket is a percentage of the base fare, with second-class tickets demanding 10% extra and other classes 30%. The distance covered by the train also influences the final ticket price. Hence, while engaging in tatkal train ticket booking, being prompt and prepared can significantly increase your chances of securing a confirmed ticket.
Tatkal Train Ticket Booking: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how you can book a tatkal train ticket:
Register for an IRCTC Account: Start your journey by registering as an individual user at https://www.irctc.co.in/nget/profile/user-registration. Ensure you have a valid mobile number and email ID, as these are mandatory for registration.
Log In to IRCTC: Once registered, log in with your username and password.
Plan Your Journey: Navigate to the "Plan My Journey" page. Select your from/to stations, ensuring they are correct for your intended train route. Then, choose your Date of Journey and select e-ticket as your Ticket Type. Click ‘Submit’ to proceed.
Understand the Advance Reservation Period (ARP): For those pondering how to book a tatkal ticket fast, note that the ARP for tatkal is one day, excluding the day of journey from the originating station. For example, if your journey starts on the 2nd, tatkal bookings open at 10:00 hrs for AC classes (1A/2A/3A/CC/EC/3E) and at 11:00 hrs for non-AC classes (SL/FC/2S) on the 1st.
Selecting the Train and Quota: On the "Train List" page, select TATKAL as your Quota. Find your train and click on the desired class to view availability. This step is vital for how to book tatkal ticket quickly.
Booking the Ticket: Click on "Book Now" under the availability options for your selected train. If you wish to explore other trains, click on a different class link in the train list.
Filling Passenger Details: A maximum of four passengers can be booked per PNR for tatkal e-tickets. On the reservation page, confirm the train name, station names, journey date, class, quota, and boarding point. Enter the name, age, gender, and berth preference for each passenger. Note: Names are limited to 15 characters, and senior citizen concessions are not available in tatkal Quota.
Payment and Confirmation: After entering passenger details, choose a payment method on the "Payment" page. Complete the payment to secure your e-ticket. This is the final step in tatkal train ticket booking.
Print Your Ticket: Upon successful payment and booking, you will see the ticket confirmation details. Use the “Print ERS” Button to print your Electronic Reservation Slip (ERS).
Navigating the IRCTC app for tatkal bookings requires not only timeliness but also a strategic approach. To enhance your chances of success, it is advisable to have your travel details, including passenger information, ready beforehand. This preparation is key, especially during peak hours when the demand for tatkal tickets is at its highest. Furthermore, staying updated on train schedules and having alternate travel options in mind can be beneficial if your first choice is unavailable. Remember, persistence and quick action are vital in the tatkal train ticket booking process, as tickets often sell out rapidly. By following these guidelines, you can streamline your booking experience, making it more efficient and likely to result in a confirmed ticket.
This guide streamlines the process of how to book tatkal train tickets, aiming to provide a swift and straightforward booking experience. By following these steps, you can navigate the IRCTC system efficiently, increasing your chances of securing a tatkal ticket quickly and with ease.
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*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.
