Indian Railways has made many important changes in the Tatkal ticket booking system. These new rules have come into effect from January 1, 2025. These changes are aimed at providing better convenience to passengers and making the ticket booking process more transparent and simple.
Tatkal ticket is a facility that provides passengers the convenience of traveling by train even at the last minute. This is very useful for those who have to travel suddenly or whose travel plans are made at the last minute. Under the new rules, the timings of Tatkal ticket booking have changed and some other important changes have also been made.
What is tatkal ticket?
Tatkal ticket is a special type of rail ticket that can be booked a day before the date of journey. This is very useful for those travelers who have to travel suddenly or whose travel plans are made at the last minute. Tatkal tickets cost a little more than normal tickets, but this increases the chances of passengers getting a confirmed seat.
Overview of Tatkal Ticket Booking
Description | Information |
Booking Start Time (AC Class) | 10:00 am |
Booking Start Time (Non-AC Class) | 11:00 am |
Maximum tickets per booking | 4 |
minimum charge | ₹10 (Second Sitting) |
maximum charge | ₹500 (AC First Class/Executive Class) |
Refund Policy | No refunds (except in some special cases) |
id proof | Necessary |
New time for Tatkal ticket booking
According to the new rule:
- Tatkal ticket booking for AC class will now start at 10:00 am
- Tatkal ticket booking for non-AC classes will start at 11:00 am
This change has been made so that passengers get more time to book tickets and the load on the server is reduced.
New rules for Tatkal ticket booking
- A maximum of 6 Tatkal tickets can be booked in a month from one user ID.
- If your IRCTC account is linked to Aadhaar, you can book 12 Tatkal tickets in a month.
- Tatkal tickets can be booked for maximum 4 passengers at a time.
- It is necessary to provide valid ID proof while booking Tatkal tickets.
tatkal ticket fare
Tatkal ticket fare is slightly higher than normal ticket. This fare depends on the class and distance of travel.
- Second Sitting: Minimum ₹10, Maximum ₹15
- Sleeper Class: Minimum ₹100, Maximum ₹200
- AC Chair Car: Minimum ₹125, Maximum ₹225
- AC 3 Tier: Minimum ₹300, Maximum ₹400
- AC 2 Tier: Minimum ₹400, Maximum ₹500
- Executive Class: Minimum ₹400, Maximum ₹500
tatkal ticket booking tips
- Login to IRCTC website and keep your account updated.
- Login to the website a few minutes before the start of booking.
- Have your travel information ready in advance.
- Use a fast internet connection.
- Use quick payment options like UPI or net banking.
Tatkal Ticket Cancellation and Refund
Generally no refund is given on cancellation of Tatkal ticket. But a refund may be available under certain circumstances:
- If the train is late by more than 3 hours
- If the train’s route changes
- If the passenger is given a lower class seat
IRCTC Tatkal Ticket Booking Process
- Go to IRCTC website and login.
- Go to ‘Plan My Journey’ section.
- Fill in the journey information (station, date, etc.).
- Select ‘Tatkal’ option.
- Select available train and seat.
- Fill in the passenger information.
- Make payment and book tickets.
Benefits of Tatkal ticket booking
- You can plan your travel at the last minute.
- Higher chances of getting confirmed seat.
- Available for all classes (Both AC and Non-AC).
- Online booking facility.
Tatkal ticket booking limits
- A limited number of tickets are available.
- The fare is higher than the normal ticket.
- Refunds are not available (except in rare cases).
- Booking time is limited.
Documents required for Tatkal ticket
It is necessary to carry any one of the following ID proofs while booking Tatkal tickets and during the journey:
- Aadhar card
- PAN card
- Passport
- driving license
- voter id card
- Photo ID Card (Government Issued)
Use of IRCTC app for Tatkal ticket booking
Tatkal tickets can also be booked through IRCTC app. For:
- Download IRCTC app and login.
- Click on ‘Book Ticket’.
- Fill in travel information.
- Select ‘Tatkal’ option.
- Select available train and seat.
- Fill passenger information and make payment.
Other options for Tatkal ticket booking
If you are not able to book tickets from IRCTC website or app, you can use the following options:
- Booking from railway station counter
- Booking from Authorized Railway Ticket Agent
- Booking from Railway Inquiry Center
Important points for Tatkal ticket booking
- Registration on IRCTC is necessary for Tatkal ticket booking.
- Please login before booking starts.
- Have your travel information ready in advance.
- Use a fast internet connection.
- Do not attempt to book on more than one device.
Best Practice for Tatkal Ticket Booking
- Link IRCTC account to Aadhaar.
- Update IRCTC website or app regularly.
- Set up your payment options in advance.
- Save passenger information in advance.
- Please ensure network connectivity at the time of booking.
Problems and solutions faced in Tatkal ticket booking
- Website slowing down or crashing: In this case, use the IRCTC app or try again after some time.
- Payment failure: Use another payment option or contact the bank.
- Seat not available: Book a waitlisted ticket or look for another train.
- Filling incorrect information: Double check all the information before booking the ticket.
Alternative options for Tatkal ticket
- Premium Tatkal Ticket: The fare is higher but the chances of getting a confirmed seat are also higher.
- VIKALP Scheme: In this you can get a seat in alternative train.
- Current Booking: Tickets can be booked on the day of journey only.
- RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation): In this you get a partial seat.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for general information purposes only. Although we have attempted to keep this information accurate and up-to-date, railway rules and procedures may change from time to time. Please visit the official IRCTC website or contact railway officials for accurate and latest information. We are not responsible for any action taken based on the information given in this article.