Diwali 2026 Train Booking: Big news for railway passengers. In November 2026, both Diwali and Chhath will be celebrated. Trains are usually overcrowded during these festivals, making it challenging to get tickets, especially for migrant workers from Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh who work in Delhi, Punjab, and Rajasthan and return home. Despite special train announcements by the railways, securing reservations can be difficult. As a result, people often resort to Tatkal tickets, flights, or buses. To ensure train reservations for Diwali and Chhath, it is advisable to plan and book tickets in advance.
Key Points
1. Ticket reservations open 60 days prior to the travel date based on Diwali/Chhath dates.
2. Booking for sleeper, 3AC, 2AC, and first-class tickets starts at 8 am.
3. Dhanteras falls on November 6th, Diwali on November 8th, and Chhath six days later, allowing travelers to plan accordingly and start booking tickets in early September.
4. Special trains are typically announced as the festivals near, and passengers should monitor railway announcements for booking opportunities.
Know Some Booking Tips
– Begin logging in at 7:50 AM as reservations start at 8:00 AM.
– Have passenger details and payment ready to secure tickets within the first 10 to 15 minutes after the booking opens.
Bookings for Durga Puja can be made from August 18
This year, Durga Puja falls on October 17, 2026. If you are traveling by train on October 17, ticket booking will begin 60 days in advance, i.e., on August 18, 2026. Therefore, travelers should try to book as soon as the ticket window opens, as demand for train seats is high during the festival season.
Due
to the increased crowds during festivals, the Railways may also run additional and special trains in different zones. In previous years, additional trains have been announced for Puja, Diwali, and Chhath. Therefore, if seats are not available on regular trains, passengers should keep an eye on the special trains that may be announced later.