Indian Railways has announced an exciting festive offer for all train travelers across the country. During this special festive season, passengers can now enjoy a 20% discount on round-trip train tickets. This is great news for people planning to travel by train for festivals, family visits, vacations, or any special occasion.
If you are someone who loves to travel by train or has upcoming travel plans, this offer can help you save money and make your journey more affordable. In this article, we will explain the details of this Indian Railways festive offer, who can avail it, how to book tickets with the discount, and other important information.
What is the Indian Railways Festive Offer?
The Indian Railways festive offer gives passengers a 20% discount on round-trip (return) train tickets. This means when you book a ticket from one city to another and also book the return ticket together, you will get 20% off on the total fare.
This discount applies only if both tickets (going and returning) are booked at the same time or within the offer period. The offer aims to encourage more people to travel by train during the festive season when many families travel to meet relatives or go on holiday trips.
Who Can Avail the Discount?
This discount is available for all passengers traveling by Indian Railways, including:
- Regular travelers
- Festival travelers
- Tourists
- Students
- Senior citizens
- Anyone planning a round trip by train
The offer applies to all classes of travel — from general class to sleeper, AC 3-tier, AC 2-tier, and even AC First Class. So, no matter what type of ticket you buy, you can get the 20% discount on round-trip tickets.
How to Book Train Tickets with the 20% Discount?
Booking your train tickets with the festive discount is very simple. Here are the steps:
- Visit the Official Website or App: Go to the official Indian Railways booking website, IRCTC, or use the IRCTC Rail Connect app on your smartphone.
- Select Round-Trip Option: When booking tickets, choose the “Round-Trip” or “Return Ticket” option instead of a one-way trip.
- Enter Travel Details: Fill in your departure station, destination station, date of journey, and return date.
- Choose Your Class: Select the class you want to travel in, such as Sleeper, AC 3-tier, etc.
- Check Fare and Discount: After entering all details, the system will automatically apply the 20% discount on the total fare for your round trip.
- Make Payment: Pay the discounted fare using online payment methods like debit/credit card, net banking, or digital wallets.
- Get Your Tickets: Once payment is successful, you will get e-tickets with the discount applied. You can download or print these tickets.
Important Things to Know About the Offer
- Offer Period: The 20% discount is valid only during the festive season. Usually, this lasts for 1-2 months around major festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, Christmas, New Year, or regional festivals. Check the Indian Railways website or app for exact dates.
- Return Journey Date: Your return journey must be within a certain time limit from your onward journey date, generally within 30 days. Make sure to check the specific rules while booking.
- Not Applicable for Tatkal Tickets: The discount is usually not available for Tatkal tickets, which are emergency or last-minute tickets.
- Limited Seats: There may be a limited number of discounted seats available. So, book your tickets early to avoid missing out.
- No Refund on Discounted Tickets: If you cancel the tickets, the refund amount may be reduced as per Indian Railways’ refund policy for discounted tickets.
- Available on Most Routes: This offer is available on most popular routes across India, but some special trains or premium trains may not offer the discount.
Why Should You Take Advantage of This Offer?
Indian Railways is the most popular mode of travel in India for millions of people. During festivals, trains get fully booked and ticket prices usually increase. This festive offer gives you a chance to travel comfortably and affordably with your family and friends.
Here are some benefits of the offer:
- Save Money: The 20% discount helps you save a good amount on your travel expenses.
- Easy to Book: You can book your round-trip tickets online from home without standing in queues.
- Comfortable Travel: Indian Railways offers various classes so you can choose what suits your budget and comfort.
- Plan Ahead: Booking round-trip tickets in advance helps you plan your trip better.
- Travel Stress-Free: Get confirmed tickets for both onward and return journeys together, reducing travel stress.
Tips for Booking Train Tickets During the Festive Season
- Book Early: Festive season means more travelers, so book your tickets as early as possible.
- Use IRCTC Website/App: This is the safest and easiest way to book tickets online with discounts.
- Check Train Timings: Verify train schedules and availability before booking.
- Keep ID Proof Ready: Carry a valid ID proof while traveling as it is mandatory.
- Be Flexible: Sometimes, traveling a day before or after the peak festival day can get you better availability and prices.
Conclusion
Indian Railways’ festive offer of 20% discount on round-trip train tickets is a fantastic opportunity for everyone planning to travel during the festive season. It not only saves money but also encourages people to use the safest and most reliable mode of travel in India. If you have any travel plans coming up for festivals or holidays, don’t miss this chance. Book your round-trip tickets early through the IRCTC website or app, enjoy the discount, and travel happily with your loved ones.
Stay updated with the Indian Railways website and apps to know the exact dates and terms of the offer. Have a safe and joyful journey!
