Tatkal Booking Timings: All You Need to Know
Are you planning a last-minute trip and need to book your train tickets quickly? The Tatkal scheme by the Indian Railways is here to your rescue! Tatkal booking allows passengers to book their tickets just one day before the scheduled departure of the train. It is a boon for those who have immediate travel plans or face sudden emergencies.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of Tatkal booking timings, procedures, tips, and everything else you need to know to secure your seat on a train at short notice.
Understanding Tatkal Booking:
The Tatkal scheme was introduced by Indian Railways to accommodate passengers who need to undertake sudden unplanned journeys. Under this scheme, a fixed number of seats on all trains are reserved, and these seats can be booked one day in advance of the train’s departure. Tatkal tickets can be booked online through the IRCTC website or at railway reservation counters.
Tatkal Booking Timings:
One of the critical factors to understand when booking a Tatkal ticket is the timing. Tatkal booking opens at 10:00 AM for AC class and at 11:00 AM for non-AC class the day before the train’s departure. It is essential to be prompt in booking your Tatkal ticket as the availability is limited, and tickets get sold out quickly.
Criteria for Tatkal Booking:
There are certain criteria and rules that apply to Tatkal bookings:
- Tatkal tickets can be booked for all classes except First AC.
- Passengers can book Tatkal tickets online through the IRCTC website or at reservation counters.
- A maximum of four passengers can be booked on one PNR for Tatkal tickets.
- No refund is granted on confirmed Tatkal tickets.
- Passengers need to provide a photo identity card during the journey.
Tips for Tatkal Booking:
Booking Tatkal tickets can be a task, considering the high demand and limited availability. Here are some tips to help you secure your Tatkal ticket successfully:
- Be Prepared: Log in to the IRCTC website a few minutes before the Tatkal booking opens.
- Use Autofill: Save time by saving passenger details in the autofill feature of the IRCTC website.
- Multiple Account Logins: If you are unsuccessful in booking a Tatkal ticket with one account, try using different accounts simultaneously.
- Payment Options: Opt for online payment methods like net banking or e-wallets for faster transactions.
- Keep ID Proof Handy: Ensure you have a valid ID proof ready for the journey as it is mandatory for Tatkal bookings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tatkal Booking:
-
Q: Can Tatkal tickets be canceled or modified?
A: No, Tatkal tickets cannot be canceled or modified. However, you can cancel the ticket and claim a refund if the train is delayed by more than three hours. -
Q: What is the Tatkal booking charge?
A: The Tatkal booking charges vary based on the class of travel, starting from Rs. 10 to Rs. 500. -
Q: Is there a different tatkal booking time for different classes of travel?
A: Yes, Tatkal booking opens at 10:00 AM for AC classes and at 11:00 AM for non-AC classes. -
Q: Can I book a Ladies Tatkal ticket for male passengers?
A: No, the Ladies Tatkal quota is exclusively for female passengers traveling alone or with children below 12 years of age. -
Q: Can I book a Tatkal ticket for a journey of more than one day duration?
A: Tatkal tickets can be booked for journeys up to one day in duration, excluding the date of the journey.
In conclusion, understanding the Tatkal booking timings and procedures is essential to secure your seat on a train at short notice. By being prepared, following the guidelines, and utilizing the tips mentioned in this guide, you can increase your chances of successfully booking a Tatkal ticket for your next journey. Happy travels!
