RailBookingDate.inWhen does train ticket booking open?
Indian Railways opens reservations 60 days before the journey (not counting the journey day), at 8:00 AM IST. Pick your travel date to see the exact booking time.
Booking right now covers travel up to
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Without Aadhaar verification: up to –
Find your booking date
Booking opens (Aadhaar-verified)
Without Aadhaar verification
Tatkal, AC classes
Tatkal, non-AC classes
All times IST. Tatkal needs Aadhaar OTP verification. Trains are booked by the date they leave their starting station, so check that date if you board midway.
Frequently asked questions
- How many days in advance can I book train tickets in India?
- 60 days, not counting the day of the journey. For travel on 2 December, booking opens on 3 October.
- What time does IRCTC advance booking open?
- 8:00 AM IST on the opening day.
- Do I need Aadhaar verification to book on the first day?
- Yes. Since 12 January 2026, only Aadhaar-verified IRCTC accounts can book general reserved tickets online on the first day booking opens. Other accounts can book from the next day. Booking at railway station counters is unchanged.
- When does Tatkal booking open?
- One day before the journey, at 10:00 AM IST for AC classes and 11:00 AM IST for non-AC classes. Tatkal bookings need Aadhaar OTP verification.
- Does the 60-day rule apply to every train?
- Most trains follow it. A few daytime intercity trains have shorter windows, and the foreign tourist quota allows booking up to 365 days ahead. Check IRCTC for your specific train.