Ticket Book – Around 25 million passengers travel by train daily in the country. This rush increases even more during festivals. Especially during major festivals like Diwali and Chhath, getting confirmed train tickets becomes difficult. Most people book tickets months in advance, but sometimes, despite extensive efforts, tickets remain unavailable. In such times, Tatkal ticket booking seems to be the easiest option.
Indian Railways recently changed the rules for booking Tatkal tickets. If you are planning to travel by train during Diwali or Chhath, this information is extremely important for you.
Right time to book Tatkal tickets
Tatkal tickets are booked one day prior to the travel date. However, Tatkal ticket booking times differ for AC and sleeper classes. Booking for AC coaches begins at 10:00 AM, while booking for sleeper class coaches begins at 11:00 AM. Please note that Tatkal quotas are limited, and tickets are sold out within minutes. If you miss the booking time, it’s very difficult to get a confirmed seat.
Starting July 1, 2025, Aadhaar linking and authentication will be required for booking Tatkal tickets on the IRCTC website and mobile app. Additionally, the Railways has implemented another new rule effective July 15, 2025. Tatkal ticket bookings will now require Aadhaar-based OTP verification.
This means that during ticket booking, you will receive an OTP on your mobile number, and your ticket booking will not be completed until you enter it. This rule applies to online bookings, railway counters, and authorized agents.
Now passengers will get priority for Tatkal tickets
To give priority to common passengers during festivals, Railways has imposed restrictions on authorised agents in the initial period. Agents will not be able to make bookings for AC Tatkal tickets between 10:00 am to 10:30 am. For non-AC Tatkal tickets, this restriction will be applicable from 11:00 am to 11:30 am. This will give common passengers more chances to get confirmed tickets.
Easy way to book Tatkal tickets
- First of all login to IRCTC website or app.
- Select travel date, station and class.
- Select “Tatkal” in the quota option.
- Select train and class and click on “Book Now”.
- Fill in the passenger’s name, age and other details.
- Enter the OTP received on your mobile.
- Make payment and confirm the ticket.
- There are many payment options available like debit card, credit card, UPI, net banking etc.