Planning a Train Journey in India?Here’s What You Need to Know

August 26, 2025By maverickbirdPosted in India, Travel Extras, Travel Guides, Travel Tips

Travelling by train remains one of the most immersive and economical ways to explore India. Whether it’s the hustle of metropolitan cities or the calm of countryside stations, Indian Railways connects it all. However, planning a rail journey requires some preparation—especially when done online.

Once you’ve decided to travel, one of the first steps is understanding how to access and manage your bookings. You’ll need to go through the IRCTC login process to either check your reservation or book new tickets. If you’re new to this, IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) is the government-authorised portal for railway bookings in India.

Once you’ve booked your ticket, checking the train running status becomes crucial, especially on the day of travel. Trains in India can run late, so staying updated helps plan everything else around your journey—such as when to leave for the station or coordinate pickups.

Booking Tickets: What Are Your Options?

Traditionally, people queued at counters or relied on local agents. But the online revolution changed that, bringing convenience right into our hands. While IRCTC remains the official platform, many travellers now opt for alternatives that simplify the experience.

One such option is redRail.  It offers a smoother, less cluttered interface while still being powered by IRCTC. You log in using your IRCTC credentials, but the process is often quicker, especially during high-traffic hours. redRail also makes it easier to track your booking history, upcoming journeys, and even cancellation policies—all in one place.

Why Train Running Status Matters

The Indian Railways network is vast. With so many trains running simultaneously, delays are not uncommon. That’s where live tracking tools help. Checking the train running status ensures you’re not left waiting endlessly at the platform.

Real-time updates can also assist family members or friends who are picking you up. A five-minute delay may not sound like much, but over long distances, delays can add up quickly. You can check the running status via redRail’s app or site using your train number or PNR.

Common IRCTC Login Issues and Fixes

Let’s face it—using the IRCTC portal can be frustrating at times. Some common issues include:

  • Forgotten passwords
  • Session timeouts
  • Failed OTP verifications

To avoid these problems, always keep your login credentials saved securely. And if you’re using redRail, the process can be more forgiving. The platform allows smoother navigation and rarely faces server overloads during peak hours.

General Travel Tips for First-Time Train Passengers

If you’re not a regular train traveller, here are a few tips that can make the experience easier:

  • Please carry a printed or digital copy of your ticket: Even though e-tickets are valid, some train staff might ask to see it in print.
  • Arrive early: Stations can be chaotic, especially in large cities. Reaching at least 30 minutes before your train departs is wise.
  • Pack essentials smartly: Trains often don’t provide amenities like bedding in lower classes. Carry water, snacks, and a small blanket for longer journeys.
  • Know your coach and seat in advance: It reduces the stress of boarding, especially with heavy luggage.

Conclusion

Train journeys in India are more than just a means to get from point A to B. They’re experiences in themselves—marked by changing landscapes, station food, and the camaraderie of fellow passengers. While the process of booking and tracking trains has become more streamlined, understanding platforms like redRail and using features like train running status effectively can make all the difference.

With a bit of preparation and the right tools, your next train journey could be smooth, comfortable, and truly memorable.

Follow the rest of the Top Experiences series

RESPONSIBLE TRAVELING-BECAUSE I CARE

Tagged , ,