IRCTC, also known as the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, is the official online portal for booking train tickets in India. It is a convenient way to book tickets from the comfort of your home or office, without having to wait in long queues at railway stations. However, many people find the process of IRCTC booking to be confusing and time-consuming. In this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks that will help you book your tickets on IRCTC with ease.
Register on IRCTC
The first step to booking a ticket on IRCTC is to register on the website. This is a simple process that requires you to provide your basic details like name, email address, and mobile number. Once you have registered, you can log in to your account and start booking tickets.
Plan your journey in advance
Planning your journey in advance can help you book your tickets with ease. Indian Railways releases the schedule and availability of seats 120 days in advance, so make sure to book your tickets as early as possible to get a confirmed seat. Also, try to book your tickets during off-peak hours when the traffic on the website is low.
Use the IRCTC app
The IRCTC app is a user-friendly and convenient way to book tickets. You can download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and use it to check seat availability, book tickets, and make payments. It also allows you to save your preferences, such as passenger details and payment options, to make future bookings easier.
Use the Quick Book feature
The Quick Book feature is a time-saving option that allows you to book tickets in just a few clicks. This feature is especially useful when you need to book tickets for a familiar journey that you take regularly. You can save your preferences, such as the source and destination stations, travel dates, and passenger details, and use them to book tickets quickly.
Check for alternate trains and routes
If your preferred train or route is not available, don't lose hope. Indian Railways operates multiple trains on the same route, and you can check for alternate trains and routes to find a seat. You can also try to book tickets for a different class of travel, which may have more availability.
Use cashback and discount offers
IRCTC often runs cashback and discount offers, which can help you save money on your bookings. Keep an eye out for these offers and use them to get the best deal on your tickets.
Keep your payment details ready
Before you start booking your tickets, make sure that your payment details, such as your credit card or debit card details, are handy. This will help you complete the transaction quickly and avoid any delays.
In conclusion, booking tickets on IRCTC can be a smooth and hassle-free experience if you follow these tips and tricks. Register on IRCTC, plan your journey in advance, use the IRCTC app, try the Quick Book feature, check for alternate trains and routes, use cashback and discount offers, and keep your payment details ready. By doing so, you can book your tickets with ease and avoid any last-minute stress.