Tatkal Ticket Booking - Know the Right Time to Book Tickets on IRCTC
Planning a train journey at the last minute can be stressful, especially when regular tickets are unavailable. In such situations, Tatkal booking can be a useful option. Tatkal tickets are released one day before the journey, but the booking window opens at different times for AC and non-AC classes.
Tatkal booking mainly comes down to timing and preparation. AC bookings begin at 10 AM and non-AC bookings at 11 AM, one day before the train's departure from its originating station. Having your account, passenger details, Aadhaar verification and payment method ready can make the process faster.
When Does Tatkal Booking Open?
Tatkal booking starts one day before the train's scheduled departure from its originating station.- AC classes: 10:00 AM
- Non-AC classes: 11:00 AM
How to Book a Tatkal Ticket Online?
You can book a Tatkal ticket through the official IRCTC website. Follow these steps:- Log in to your IRCTC account.
- Go to 'Plan My Journey' and enter your boarding and destination stations.
- Select the journey date.
- Choose 'Tatkal' under the quota option.
- Select your preferred train and class.
- Click 'Book Now' if Tatkal seats are available.
- Enter the passenger details and verify them.
- Make the payment online to complete the booking.
How Many Passengers Can Travel on One Tatkal PNR?
A maximum of four passengers can be booked on a single Tatkal e-ticket. If more than four people are travelling together, separate bookings may be required.You may also like
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What Are the Tatkal Charges?
Tatkal tickets cost more than regular tickets because of the additional Tatkal charge. As per the applicable railway rules, the charge is 10% of the basic fare for Second Sitting (2S) and 30% for other eligible classes, subject to prescribed minimum and maximum limits.Is Aadhaar Authentication Required?
Aadhaar authentication has been introduced for Tatkal bookings from July 1, 2025. Before trying to book, passengers should check whether their IRCTC account has completed the required Aadhaar verification.Can a Confirmed Tatkal Ticket Be Refunded?
Generally, no refund is provided for a confirmed Tatkal ticket after cancellation. Different rules may apply to waitlisted Tatkal tickets and other eligible situations. So, check your journey details carefully before making the payment.Is Tatkal Available on Every Train?
No. Tatkal booking is not available on every train, route, station or class. Availability depends on the train and class selected. First AC does not offer the Tatkal facility.How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Tatkal Ticket?
Tatkal seats can disappear quickly because demand is high. To save time:- Log in to your IRCTC account before booking opens.
- Keep passenger names, ages and other details ready.
- Use the passenger information-saving feature where available.
- Keep your preferred payment method ready.
- Check your Aadhaar authentication status in advance.
Important Things to Remember
After booking, keep your Electronic Reservation Slip (ERS) or booking SMS safely. During the journey, at least one passenger listed on the ticket should carry valid identity proof.Tatkal booking mainly comes down to timing and preparation. AC bookings begin at 10 AM and non-AC bookings at 11 AM, one day before the train's departure from its originating station. Having your account, passenger details, Aadhaar verification and payment method ready can make the process faster.
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