Introduction

Traveling by train is a convenient and enjoyable way to travel. The convenience of trains allows you to travel far distances without having to deal with airport security and long queues. Train travel can be a good alternative to flying or driving.

The spacious seats and scenic views of the countryside make it a great alternative to flying or driving. As people seek out sustainable travel options, trains are becoming increasingly popular. Trains are a convenient, environmentally friendly way to travel to both urban and rural destinations.

Planning

Planning is the first step in every journey. We choose where and when to travel. The only question left is how. Let’s say we choose Indian Railways to travel from Mumbai to New Delhi. How do we start?

You can check the train schedules from Mumbai to New Delhi at the nearest station or you can check the same online. The second option seems more convenient, don’t you think?

redRail allows you to enter the names of cities to get detailed information about the trains. When you click on a train, you can narrow your search. You’ll get more details, including:

• Timetable
• Live status
• Route map
• Seat availability
• Fare chart

You can also see your PNR Status at which stations the train will stop and for how long. This allows you to make an informed choice.

Booking Your Tickets

After identifying the train, the next step is to book seats. You can reserve seats up to 120 days in advance. If you plan well, you could book your Christmas tickets as early as August, allowing you to relax and enjoy your holiday. There are several ways to book tickets:

• Online Travel Agents
• Reservation Booking Office
• IRCTC Train Ticket Booking

You can try IRCTC Train Ticket Booking if you’re used to the portal’s interface. If you don’t have the time or prefer assistance, you might consider hiring a travel agent. They can do this for you, though you’ll need to pay a commission. I prefer the fourth option, as I don’t want to take any risks and like to plan.

Booking tickets through the reservation office can be tedious, but for some reason, I like it this way. I choose a day when I’m free since I plan my trips. I walk to the nearest station and enter the booking office. I complete the reservation form, which contains:

• Train information
• The number of passengers travelling
• Personal details, such as the name and age
• The travel dates
• The desired class of travel
• Signature

If you’re looking for a round-trip ticket (in India, we call it a “return ticket”), you’ll need to complete another form. So, I filled out two forms and got my tickets. If you book tickets yourself, you might have to wait in line for up to an hour or more. While it may not be the quickest method, it’s the most convenient option for me.

The Journey

Trains usually arrive on time. However, bad weather or unexpected mishaps with trains can cause delays. Always arrive at the station well before the train arrives. You may need some time to locate your coach, so arriving early is advisable.

Read Also: Essential Tips to Mentally Prepare for Backpacking

Coach Information:

• Long-distance trains usually have 20 to 24 coaches.
• Different classes of coaches, with only a few 1AC coaches.
• Each coach measures approximately 23.54 meters (77.23 feet).
• The train is about 470 meters (1,544 feet) long.

Security Tips:

• If you’re traveling in your coupe, you won’t need to worry too much.
• If you’re with other passengers, take extra care of your belongings.
• Use a padlock to secure your zippers for enhanced protection.
• Keep your money, passports, credit cards, and other important documents in a waist pouch.

Fellow passengers are usually helpful, accommodating, and supportive. Some may even share meals or snacks and engage in pleasant conversations.

Food and Snacks:

• In non-AC compartments, hawkers sell snacks, water, food, and fresh fruit.
• Railway canteen staff take orders and deliver meals directly from the kitchen (all long-distance trains have a dedicated coach converted into a kitchen).
• If you have specific dietary needs, bring your food.

Entertainment and Comfort:

• Carry music devices if you love music.
• Use your laptop for creative or business work.
• Keep your camera handy for taking pictures of scenic landscapes.
• Bring antibacterial wipes and toilet tissue, as they’ll come in handy.
• Carry your medications in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

In India, traveling by train is more than just a trip. You get a glimpse into the lives of Indian families traveling with you. You may initially feel overwhelmed, but you’ll soon blend in and experience the warmth of other passengers. You’ll also witness the raw and awe-inspiring landscapes of the Indian heartland.