If you’ve ever tried to book a train ticket online, you’re probably familiar with the Tatkal scheme. Introduced in 1997, Tatkal is a means of securing seats on trains that have already sold out or are close to selling out. But what are the differences between Tatkal and Premium Tatkal? Let’s take a look.
What is Tatkal?
- Tatkal is a system introduced by the Indian Railways to book train tickets at a short notice. It allows passengers to book their tickets on the day of travel or one day in advance.
- Tatkal tickets can be booked online through the IRCTC website or at select railway reservation counters. The Tatkal scheme is very popular among business travelers and tourists who often make last-minute plans. Tatkal booking opens at 10 am for AC classes and 11 am for non-AC classes, one day in advance of the journey.
- There is a Tatkal charge of INR 200 for AC class and INR 100 for non-AC class, in addition to the normal ticket fare. Tatkal tickets can be canceled, but there is a cancellation fee of INR 240 for AC classes and INR 180 for non-AC classes. the refundable amount will be 60% of the ticket fare for AC class and 50% for non-AC class. Tatkal booking is not available for a few trains like Garib Rath Express, Rajdhani Express, Duronto Express, etc.
What is Premium Tatkal?
Premium Tatkal is a type of train ticket that allows passengers to get a confirmed seat with short notice. It is available for select trains and can be booked up to one day in advance. Premium Tatkal tickets are more expensive than regular tickets, but they offer a greater chance of getting a confirmed seat. Premium Tatkal tickets can be booked online or at train stations.
Differences between Tatkal and Premium Tatkal
Tatkal and Premium Tatkal are two types of train tickets that can be booked in India. Tatkal tickets can be booked up to one day in advance, while Premium Tatkal tickets can be booked up to two days in advance. Tatkal tickets are more expensive than regular tickets, but they are still cheaper than Premium Tatkal tickets.
Premium Tatkal tickets are only available for certain trains, and they must be booked online. Both Tatkal and Premium Tatkal tickets are non-refundable. Tatkal tickets can be canceled, but a cancellation fee will be charged. Premium Tatkal tickets cannot be canceled. Tatkal and Premium Tatkal are both important services that help people travel by train in India.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to travel urgently, Tatkal tickets may be the best option for you. However, if you don’t mind spending a bit more money, Premium Tatkal tickets offer some advantages that could make your journey a bit smoother. We hope this article has helped clear up any questions you had about the two types of Tatkal tickets.
