How to Book Tatkal Ticket in IRCTC App: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Have you ever needed to travel urgently by train across India but found most tickets fully booked? That’s exactly where the Tatkal ticket system on the IRCTC app comes to your rescue. In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through how to book a Tatkal ticket seamlessly using the IRCTC app—step by step, in the simplest way possible.
This guide is beginner-friendly, conversational, and filled with valuable tips to boost your chances of getting those last-minute tickets. Ready to master the art of Tatkal booking? Let’s get started.
🚄 What is a Tatkal Ticket?
Tatkal is a special ticket booking quota introduced by Indian Railways for passengers who need to travel on short notice. These tickets are released just one day before the journey date, and they’re usually in high demand. Only a limited number of Tatkal tickets are available per train, so they sell out quickly—sometimes in seconds!
⏰ Tatkal Booking Timings
Timing is everything! The booking opens just one day before the train’s scheduled departure and the time window depends on your travel class.
| Class Type | Tatkal Booking Time |
|---|---|
| AC (1A, 2A, 3A, CC, EC) | 10:00 AM |
| Non-AC (SL, 2S) | 11:00 AM |
For example, if a train departs on the 10th, Tatkal booking opens on the 9th (one day in advance).
✅ What You Need Before Booking
Before the booking window opens, here’s a quick checklist to prepare and save valuable time:
- IRCTC Account: Make sure you have a registered and verified account.
- Aadhaar Verification: Aadhaar authentication is now mandatory for Tatkal ticket booking. Ensure your IRCTC profile is linked and verified.
- IRCTC App Installed: Install or update the official IRCTC Rail Connect app from the Play Store or App Store.
- Passenger Details Ready: Full name, age, gender, berth preference, and government-issued ID number of each traveler.
- Payment Method Saved: Save UPI, IRCTC Wallet, or Netbanking for faster checkout.
- Fast Internet Connection: A stable connection makes a real difference during high-traffic booking hours.
📱 Step-by-Step: How to Book Tatkal Tickets on IRCTC App
1. Login Before Booking Time
Open the IRCTC app and log in at least 10–15 minutes early, especially during peak seasons. This gives you a head start without server delays.
2. Tap “Book Ticket” and Select Tatkal Quota
- On the home screen, go to Book Ticket.
- Select the Tatkal quota from the list of quota types.
- Input your From and To stations and Journey Date (which should be the next day).
3. Choose Train and Class
- You’ll now see a list of trains running on that route.
- Tap on your preferred train and choose the Tatkal ticket availability in your desired class (1A, 2A, 3A, SL, etc.).
4. Enter Passenger Details Quickly
Speed is key here!
- Enter or select from saved passenger profiles.
- Fill in name, age, gender, berth preference, and ID card number.
- You can book up to 4 passengers under one Tatkal booking.
5. Confirm and Review
Before proceeding, always double-check:
- Train number and name
- Travel date and class
- Passenger names and details
Mistakes here could cause your booking to fail or lead to penalties.
6. Payment Time – Be Lightning Fast!
Use the fastest payment methods:
- UPI (most recommended)
- IRCTC eWallet
- Net Banking
Avoid using older card payment methods that might take more time to authenticate.
7. Get Your Confirmation
Once successful, you’ll see your PNR number along with booking confirmation.
Ticket is sent to your registered email and as an SMS. You can also download or screenshot your e-ticket for reference.
💰 Tatkal Charges at a Glance
Here’s a quick summary of Tatkal ticket pricing based on different travel classes:
| Travel Class | Tatkal Charges (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sleeper (SL) | ₹100 – ₹200 |
| Third AC (3A) | ₹300 – ₹400 |
| Second AC (2A) | ₹400 – ₹500 |
| First AC (1A) | ₹500+ |
| Chair Car / Executive CC | ₹125 – ₹200 |
| Second Sitting (2S) | ₹10 – ₹100 |
🔎 Note: Charges vary based on distance and train type. Convenience, GST, and other charges are added to the base fare. Tatkal charges are non-refundable on cancellation.
🚫 New Tatkal Rules You Should Know
To ensure fair booking and reduce misuse:
- Agents are blocked from booking Tatkal tickets for the first 30 minutes after booking opens.
- Only Aadhaar-verified IRCTC accounts are allowed to book Tatkal tickers.
This means more opportunities for individual users like you to successfully grab a seat!
🧠 Pro Tips to Improve Your Chances
Getting a Tatkal ticket is a bit of an art. Speed, preparation, and timing make the difference. Here’s how to win your seat:
1. Be Logged In & Ready
Keep the app running and your session active before Tatkal starts. Refreshing too often could log you out.
2. Save All Details in Advance
- Save passenger profiles in the app.
- Pre-save your preferred payment methods—especially UPI or IRCTC Wallet.
3. Use Mobile Instead of Desktop During Peak
Tatkal booking on the official IRCTC app is often faster than the website, especially during rush hours.
4. Avoid Slow Gateways
Credit card or debit card OTP can sometimes delay transactions. Stick with UPI or Netbanking.
5. Choose Alternate Trains or Stations
Flexibility with class, timing, or nearby stations increases your chances.
🔄 Troubleshooting Common Issues
Let’s face it—things don’t always go as planned. Here’s how to deal with common issues:
❌ App Crash?
Quickly force-close and restart, as IRCTC auto-logs slow users out.
❌ Payment Failed?
Retry immediately with another saved payment option.
❌ Ticket Not Confirmed?
You may see a “failed” screen if Tatkal seats got filled. Try another train or use the “premium tatkal” (if available).
🧾 Tatkal Booking Summary Table
| Things You Need | ✅ Status |
|---|---|
| IRCTC account | ✔️ |
| Aadhaar authenticated | ✔️ |
| Passenger details saved | ✔️ |
| Payment method saved | ✔️ |
| Booking time remembered | ✔️ |
| Strong internet available | ✔️ |
🤔 FAQs About Tatkal Ticket Booking
Q: Can I cancel a Tatkal ticket?
A: Yes, but you won’t be refunded the Tatkal portion of the fare. Cancellation works, but it costs.
Q: Can senior citizens get discounts on Tatkal?
A: No, Tatkal tickets are not eligible for any concessions.
Q: How many people can be booked on one Tatkal ticket?
A: Maximum 4 passengers per PNR.
Q: Do I need to carry a printout?
A: Nope! Just show your digital ticket (email or SMS) and the original ID used at booking time.
✈️ Your Tatkal Travel Success Checklist
Before booking:
- Log in at least 10 minutes early
- Check booking time for your class
- Confirm Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC account
- Ready passenger info and ID
- Save and test UPI for payment
During booking:
- Select Tatkal quota in app
- Fill info rapidly
- Use autofill where possible
- Double-check before payment
After booking:
- Save & screenshot PNR
- Charge your phone and keep your ID ready
- Track the train status before journey
✍️ Final Thoughts
Booking Tatkal tickets on the IRCTC app may feel like a race. But with the right planning and a few smart hacks, you don’t have to leave it to chance.
The key is preparation – save those passenger details, pick the quickest payment method, and stay calm under pressure. Whether it’s an emergency trip or a last-minute vacation, you now have everything you need to book that Tatkal seat straight from your phone.
Give it a try and tell us how it went. Got questions or tips that helped you? Let us know in the comments!
Happy booking, and safe travels ahead! 🚆✨
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