The Indian railway system is confusing and vast, but here are a few simple tips and facts that will help in getting ready for train travel in India.
Booking early
Indian railways transport close to 18 million people daily. Booking your tickets as early as possible is a must when undertaking train travel in India. You are allowed to book tickets only 120 days before your date of travel. Or, in some trains, even just 30 days prior. Unless you are backpacking and have lots of time on your hands to wait to get a confirmed ticket, booking well in advance is required.
Booking in First Class travel
Some shorter train journeys have a First Class, but they normally have 24 to 32 seats in one 1AC car. It’s very difficult to get these tickets, but 2AC and 3AC are very nice and comfortable and provide the experience you’re looking for.
If you’re looking for a luxury train experience, have a look at some of the most luxurious trains in the world.
Foreigners’ quota
For the undecided foreign traveller, you can purchase a few tickets under a special quota which are reserved for foreign visa holders (not if you are registered in India). You can do this only once you reach certain train stations in India and we can’t book them for you. Nevertheless, between October to March, peak season, even these tickets sell out quickly so don’t get them last minute either.
LONG-DISTANCE TRAINS IN INDIA
There are several types of trains for one single route, for example, the Mumbai to Delhi route has several options. We advise choosing trains that start and end in your origin and destination. Trains that arrive from somewhere else have a higher likelihood of being delayed. We speak from experience: having to wait for 6 to 10 hours at train stations is no fun.
Food on Trains
Carry your own food during trips unless you are open to eating a little questionable food at train stations or from the train pantry. The food here is delicious but we do not advise eating too much if you do not have a well-trained stomach. Stick to hot food, and carry some sandwiches and snacks to keep you satisfied. If you have to eat a meal on the train, try and get something fresh from the station but don’t miss your train if it starts tooting and moving.
The Bathrooms
The bathrooms can get a little dirty after continuous use from other passengers. Carry toilet paper, soap and maybe a can of deodorant to spray before using it. The AC compartments mostly have western toilets and are fairly well kept, but there’s no harm in being prepared, especially on long train journeys.
