Checking your train PNR status on WhatsApp is fast and easy. Many official and trusted travel services now offer WhatsApp chatbots that reply with your booking status. Below is a simple step-by-step guide that anyone can follow.
What is PNR?
PNR (Passenger Name Record) is a 10-digit number given when you book a train ticket. It tells you whether your ticket is confirmed, on RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation), or on the waitlist (WL). You can find the PNR number on your e-ticket, SMS confirmation, or printed ticket.
Step-by-step process
1. Find your PNR number
Look at your ticket or booking message. The PNR is usually a string of 10 digits like 1234567890. Keep it ready.
2. Choose a WhatsApp service
You can use:
- The official railway/IRCTC WhatsApp service (if available), or
- A trusted travel website or app that provides a WhatsApp chatbot.
If you are not sure which number is official, open the official website or app of the railway or the travel company and look for a “WhatsApp” or “help” link.
3. Save the number (optional)
If you plan to use the service again, save the WhatsApp number in your phone under a simple name like “Train PNR”.
4. Open WhatsApp and start a chat
Open WhatsApp, tap the contact, and open the chat window. If it’s the first time, you might see a greeting message from the bot.
5. Type your request
Most bots accept a simple message. Common formats:
- PNR 1234567890
- pnr 1234567890
- Just send the 10-digit PNR number: 1234567890
If the bot uses commands, it will tell you how to format messages in its welcome text.
6. Send the message
Press send. The bot will process your request and reply in a few seconds with the PNR status.
7. Read the reply carefully
The bot reply usually includes:
- Train number and name
- Travel date and class (e.g., Sleeper, 3A)
- Boarding point and destination
- Passenger list with seat/berth numbers (if confirmed)
- Booking status for each passenger (CNF, RAC, WL)
- Current reservation status and charting information
8. Save or screenshot the reply
Take a screenshot or forward the message to yourself for future reference. It helps if you need to show proof or check later.
How to understand common short codes
- CNF — Confirmed (you have a seat/berth).
- RAC — Reservation Against Cancellation (you have a seat but not a full berth; may get upgraded).
- WL — Waitlist (ticket not confirmed yet).
- CAN — Cancelled.
- GNWL / RLWL / PQWL — Different kinds of waitlists (based on booking location or quota).
If your status is WL or RAC, the bot may show your current position in the waitlist, like WL 12 (twelfth on the waitlist).
Troubleshooting tips
- Double-check you typed the PNR correctly (all digits).
- If the bot does not respond, check your internet connection.
- Try again after a few minutes — sometimes services slow down during peak times.
- If the bot says “PNR not found”, confirm the PNR on your ticket or the booking SMS.
- For urgent problems, use the official railway app or website or call the railway helpline.
Safety and privacy
- Use official or well-known travel services. Avoid unknown numbers that ask for personal details or payments.
- Do not share passwords, OTPs, or payment details with any chatbot. PNR checks only need the 10-digit number.
Extra tips
- Check PNR status again a few hours before your journey because seat changes and charting happen close to departure.
- Some WhatsApp bots offer alerts — ask the bot if it can send updates automatically for your PNR.
- Keep both the booking SMS and the e-ticket PDF in your phone for quick access.
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