Question 1: What is Tatkal fare?

The Tatkal fare is a special fare scheme provided by Indian Railways for passengers who require urgent reservation of tickets. It allows passengers to book their tickets on a short notice, typically one day prior to the journey.

Question 2: How is Tatkal fare calculated?

The Tatkal fare is calculated based on the base fare of the train ticket and additional charges as per the Tatkal scheme. The additional charges for Tatkal booking vary depending on the class of travel, starting from 10% of the base fare for second class and going up to 30% of the base fare for AC First Class.

Question 3: Are there any concessions available for Tatkal bookings?

No, concessions are not available for Tatkal bookings. Passengers need to pay the full Tatkal fare as determined by the Indian Railways.

Question 4: Is Tatkal fare refundable?

Tatkal fares are refundable as per the refund rules specified by Indian Railways. However, certain charges such as the Tatkal charges, service charges, and others are usually non-refundable.

Question 5: Can I check the Tatkal fare before booking?

Yes, you can check the Tatkal fare before booking by visiting the official website of Indian Railways or using various third-party applications and websites that provide this information.

Question 6: Is Tatkal fare the same for all classes of travel?

No, the Tatkal fare varies depending on the class of travel. The percentage of additional charges applied to the base fare differs for each class, with higher classes having higher Tatkal charges.

Question 7: Is the Tatkal fare inclusive of all taxes?

Yes, the Tatkal fare is inclusive of all taxes and charges. The fare displayed during the booking process includes the base fare, Tatkal charges, GST, and any other applicable fees.

Question 8: Can I book Tatkal tickets online?

Yes, Tatkal tickets can be booked online through the IRCTC website or mobile application. However, it is important to book them promptly as the availability is limited and the demand is usually high.

Question 9: What is the maximum number of Tatkal tickets one person can book online?

The maximum number of Tatkal tickets that can be booked online per user ID is limited to two tickets per day per train.

Question 10: Are there any time restrictions for booking Tatkal tickets online?

Yes, there are specific time restrictions for booking Tatkal tickets online. The booking for AC classes opens at 10:00 AM, while for non-AC classes, it opens at 11:00 AM, one day prior to the date of the journey.

Question 11: Can I make changes to my Tatkal ticket after booking?

No, changes in the passenger details or travel date are not allowed for Tatkal tickets. However, passengers can cancel their Tatkal tickets and rebook with the required changes, subject to the refund and cancellation rules.

Question 12: Is there a separate quota for Tatkal ticket bookings?

Yes, Tatkal tickets have a separate quota allocated for booking purposes. A limited number of seats are available under the Tatkal quota, so it is advisable to book tickets as early as possible.

Question 13: What is the difference between Tatkal fare and General fare?

The Tatkal fare is higher than the General fare due to the additional charges applicable under the Tatkal scheme. The Tatkal fare allows passengers to book last-minute tickets, but at a premium price.

Question 14: Can I claim a refund if my Tatkal ticket remains in the waiting list?

If your Tatkal ticket remains in the waiting list even after chart preparation, it is automatically canceled, and the refund is processed as per the refund rules. However, certain charges are non-refundable, like the Tatkal charges and service charges.

Question 15: Is a Tatkal ticket transferable to another person?

No, Tatkal tickets are not transferable to another person. The passenger whose name is mentioned on the ticket, along with valid ID proof, is allowed to travel.

Question 16: Can I upgrade my Tatkal ticket to a higher class?

No, upgrading a Tatkal ticket to a higher class is not allowed. Tatkal tickets are valid only for the class mentioned at the time of booking.

Question 17: Are Tatkal tickets available for all trains?

Tatkal tickets are available for most trains that are operated by Indian Railways. However, some premium trains or special trains may have separate ticketing rules, and Tatkal booking might not be available for those trains.

Question 18: Are there any age-based discounts for Tatkal tickets?

No, there are no age-based discounts available for Tatkal tickets. The fare is the same for passengers of all age groups.

Question 19: Can I book Tatkal tickets from a reservation counter at the railway station?

Yes, Tatkal tickets can also be booked from the reservation counters at the railway stations. However, it is recommended to book them online for faster and hassle-free booking.

Question 20: Can I book Tatkal tickets for an ongoing journey?

Yes, Tatkal tickets can be booked for an ongoing journey, provided that the train has a Tatkal quota and there are available seats for booking.

Question 21: Is there a separate Tatkal waiting list?

No, there is no separate Tatkal waiting list. Tatkal tickets follow the same waiting list and RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) rules as applicable to General quota tickets.

Question 22: Are there any concessions available for senior citizens in Tatkal bookings?

No, senior citizens are not eligible for any concessions in Tatkal bookings. They need to pay the full Tatkal fare as per the applicable rules.

Question 23: Can I book Tatkal tickets for a future date?

Tatkal tickets can be booked for a future date starting from the opening day of the Tatkal booking window, which is one day prior to the journey date.

Question 24: What happens if I miss the Tatkal booking window?

If you miss the Tatkal booking window, you will have to try booking General quota tickets, subject to availability. However, getting confirmed tickets might be challenging as the demand is usually high.

Question 25: Can I know the Tatkal fare for a specific train and class through SMS?

Yes, you can obtain Tatkal fare information for a specific train and class by sending an SMS to the Indian Railways’ designated number with the required information. The system will reply with the fare details.