Indian rail system is noted for its distinguished service rendered to the commuters over a century. Today it is the most preferred mode of transport for leisure or business trips. The journey is comfortable, safe and affordable. There are millions of commuters who depend on this transport to reach different destination through train reservation. The railway has taken care to accommodate maximum number of passengers even during peak seasons of vacation and pilgrimage by introducing new trains or by increasing the number of coaches in the existing trains. Train fares in India are comparatively cheaper than that of any other place in the world. The fares vary for different types of trains and different classes. The more facilities you expect, the higher amount you pay.

Long distance trains have the following classes of travel:

1. First Class AC


2. AC 2-tier


3. AC 3-tier


4. Sleeper Class


5. General/Unreserved

To meet the increasing demand of tickets, railway has allowed an advance booking of tickets prior to 120 days before the journey date. The 'Tatkal scheme' allows a passenger to book tickets 24 hrs before the journey, but he or she has to shell out more money for a confirmed seat. The reservation can be done by using any of the following mediums:

1. Railway reservation counter which is open from 8:00hrs to 20:00 hrs every day.


2. Internet reservation from 8:00hrs to 00:30hrs


3. Local Travel agency


4. Online Tour Operators


5. SMS Service

All methods of reservation give you an update on trains and the accommodation availability. You can manage your ticket as per the requirement. However, the online reservation is simple and the most popular medium today. IRCTC is the official site of the railway that provides all details of the trains. To book tickets online, you need to register your details on the website. You can search and choose the train for the desired route. Checking the seat availability is also an important factor before you book the tickets. Then, fill in the reservation requisition form which has a standard format all over the country. You have to mention the date of journey, station codes for source and destination, class of travel, quota of travel and all particulars of the passengers that include name, sex, age, any concessions availed and preferred seats. You can book up to six persons in a single form if all are proceeding to the same destination. Based on accommodation available, your tickets are instantly confirmed. The payment can be made by credit/debit/cash cards or by net banking service. The online booking is the smartest way to get tickets just with a few clicks of a mouse.
Indian rail journey is truly an exciting experience. Utilize any of the sources to acquire train reservation for a comfortable and stress-free journey.