Introduction
The Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is a lifeline for millions of travellers across India. With its user-friendly online platform, passengers can book train tickets, check PNR status, and even explore various train-related services. Current Booking in any train is subject to availability and available for booking a few hours before the train's departure.
What Is Current Booking on IRCTC?
Current booking is a unique feature offered by IRCTC for passengers who wish to book train tickets at the last minute. Unlike regular booking, where tickets can be reserved well in advance, current booking allows passengers to secure a seat on a train shortly before its departure. This is particularly helpful for travellers who have sudden plans or missed out on booking tickets earlier.
Key Features of Current Booking:
Exclusive for Confirmed Seats: Current booking allows users, including normal passengers and agents, to book only confirmed seats. E-Tickets Only: This option is available exclusively for E-ticket bookings. Disabled Concession: Concessions for disabled passengers are applicable for current booking. Within Charting Time Limit: Current booking can be done after charting within the existing booking time limit specified by Railways. No Boarding Point Change: Changing the boarding point is not permitted for current booking PNRs. No Name/Age/Gender Change: Altering passenger details like name, age, or gender is not allowed for current booking PNRs. Fare Matching: Booking in premium and Suvidha trains will be allowed at the last booking fare. No Extra Payment: There are no additional fees, and real-time seat allotment is part of the process. The booking process is similar to regular booking.
How to Check Current Booking Availability?
To check the availability of current booking on a particular train, follow these steps:
With IRCTC Account:
1. Visit the official IRCTC website or mobile app.
2. Log in to your IRCTC account or create one if you haven't already.
3. Enter your journey details, including the source and destination stations and travel date.
4. Click on the "Check Availability" button.
5. You will see a list of trains with available current booking slots.
Without IRCTC Account:
If you only want to check current seat availability and don't have an IRCTC user ID, you can easily do so by provided link: Check Seat Availability Here:
Current Booking Timings
It's essential to understand that current Booking in a train is available just few hours before the train's departure without any higher charges.
Steps to Book Current Tickets on IRCTC
Booking current tickets on IRCTC is a straightforward process:
Login to IRCTC: Sign in to your IRCTC account using your login credentials.
Enter Journey Details: Enter your journey details, including the date of travel.
Browse Trains: The search engine will display a list of trains for your selected route.
Check Seat Availability: Look for the "Curr Avl" option, indicating current seat availability. For example, "Curr Avl 1" means one seat is available in the chosen class and train.
Select Train and Class: Choose the train and class you prefer.
Book Now: Click "Book Now" and follow the payment instructions to confirm your booking.
Once payment is successful, you will receive a confirmed ticket.
Tips for a Smooth Current Booking Experience
Here are some tips to make your current booking experience hassle-free:
- Be Prepared: Have your ID proof and payment details ready.
- Check Timings: Current booking generally opens a few hours before the train's departure.
- Be Quick: Since seats are limited, book as soon as current booking opens.
FAQs
Q. Is current booking available for all trains?
A. No, it depends on seat availability for each train.
Q.Can I cancel a current booking ticket?
A.Yes, you can cancel current booking tickets, but cancellation charges may apply.
Q.Is current booking available on the IRCTC app?
A.Yes, you can check current booking availability and book tickets through the IRCTC app.
Q. What happens if I don't get a current booking ticket?
A.If you don't get a current booking ticket, you may need to consider other travel options or check for available trains on a different date.
Q. Are current booking fares the same for all classes?
A.No, current booking fares vary depending on the class of travel.
