Want to book general, reservation train tickets online? Here's how
What's the story
Booking a train ticket has become quite easy these days, thanks to technological advancements and the Indian Railways' efforts to enhance passenger convenience. With the help of online tools, passengers can book not just reserved tickets but also platform and general tickets now without standing in never-ending queues at railway stations. So, here are the steps to book general and reservation train tickets online.
Reservation
How to book reservations in trains online
Firstly, log into your account on the IRCTC e-ticketing website. Next, in the "Book your ticket" box, enter journey details: boarding station, destination station, date of travel, and travel class. Then, click on "Find trains." You will be shown a list of trains available for your selected route and date. Check train timings and fare, and click on "Book now" for the desired option.
Information
Final steps
On the next page, enter passenger details, such as name, age, gender, food choice, travel insurance, mobile number, etc. of all the passengers. Click on the "Continue Booking" button. Finally, review your booking, make payment, and you are done.
General ticket
UTS app for booking general (unreserved) train tickets online
To save passengers the hassle of standing in long queues for general tickets from ticket counters, the Indian Railways has the UTS mobile app. The app allows passengers to book unreserved tickets within a 20km radius of the source railway station in non-suburban areas and 5km in suburban areas. Other than normal tickets, one can also book platform tickets, season tickets, and monthly pass.
How to?
Procedure to book unreserved train ticket on UTS app
The UTS app is available on Apple and Android smartphones. Download it from your respective app store and register or log into the app. Click the "Book Ticket" option, then select the type of ticket you want to book. Enter the required details like source and destination stations, passenger type, ticket type, and train type. Finally, click on "Book Ticket" and make the payment.