During train travel, stations often experience heavy congestion during major holidays such as Diwali, Dussehra, or Chhath Puja. Passengers have to struggle to get to their destination. In the period immediately preceding the holidays, it becomes extremely difficult to obtain a confirmed railway ticket. As a result, people either end up in crowds or are forced to cancel their travel plans.
If you want to avoid crowds and ensure a safe and comfortable journey during these festive days, there are several useful tips.
The most effective and simple way to get a confirmed ticket is advance booking. According to Indian Railways rules, passengers can book tickets through the reservation system up to 60 days before the travel date. It is recommended to purchase tickets for yourself and your family immediately after the booking window opens. This will help avoid last-minute rush and problems with ticket confirmation, ensuring a smooth journey.
Even if you receive a waiting list ticket when booking 60 days in advance, this might be a beneficial option. For instance, on a direct route from Delhi to Patna, getting a waiting list ticket has a higher chance of confirmation because the probability of confirmation increases over time. In most cases, such tickets are eventually confirmed.
There is another way to make a safe trip while avoiding overcrowding. If you cannot find a confirmed ticket on a direct train from Delhi to Patna, you can first book a ticket from Delhi to Kanpur, and then purchase a ticket on the next train from Kanpur to Patna. The chances of confirmation are higher on this route because many passengers stop at these major stations, and your waiting list ticket may be confirmed when they alight from the train.
If you are unable to find a confirmed ticket, do not worry, as Indian Railways is aware of the increased load during holiday periods and takes appropriate measures. The railway company organizes special trains that are easier to board. Additionally, you can use the Tatkal ticket service on all trains. However, please note that this service requires an additional fee, and tickets can be purchased both online and at counters.