IRCTC Ticket Booking: IRCTC is continuously upgrading its digital platform to make online ticket booking easier for the millions of passengers traveling on Indian Railways. In this connection, IRCTC has launched its new and modern beta website. It’s a relief that the Railways hasn’t yet shut down its old main website, meaning users can use both platforms. However, the new website has been specifically designed for faster speeds, a better user interface, and significantly fewer CAPTCHA verifications. Let’s understand how the ticket booking process works on both websites.
Process to book tickets on the new website
The ticket booking process on the new IRCTC website has been simplified and simplified to just 5 to 6 steps. You don’t need to create a new account; you can use your old ID. To book tickets on the new website, follow the steps below.
Steps to reserve tickets on the new website:
The ticket booking process on the new IRCTC website has been streamlined to just 5 to 6 steps. Users are not required to create a new account; they can log in using their existing ID. To book tickets on the new website, proceed as follows:
1. Log in: Initially, visit the IRCTC Beta website and click on the Login button located at the top right corner. Enter your old user ID and password to log in.
2. Train search: Input the departure and arrival stations in the designated box on the homepage. Then, specify your travel date and quota (e.g., General, Tatkal) and click on Search Trains.
3. Seat availability check: A key feature of the new website is the display of available seats for all classes—Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC—simultaneously on one screen. Choose your desired train and class, and proceed to book immediately.
4. Passenger Details: Click on Continue Booking. Enter the passenger’s name, age, gender, and berth preferences like Lower, Upper, or Side Lower. This updated portal eliminates the need for repetitive captcha entries.
5. Payment and e-ticket: Progress to the payment page. Opt for your preferred payment method from UPI, net banking, or credit/debit card. Upon successful payment, your confirmed ticket will be reserved, and your digital e-ticket will be displayed on the screen.
Process to book tickets on the old website
First, open the official IRCTC website in your browser. Go to the Login option on the homepage and enter your username, password, and the security code (Captcha) displayed on the screen. If you don’t have an account, create one by clicking Register.
After logging in, enter the name of the station you want to catch the train from in the From field and your destination in the To field. Then, select your travel date from the calendar, select your preferred class (e.g., Sleeper or AC), and click Search Trains.
You will now see a list of all trains on that route. After checking the train schedule that suits you, click on the relevant class (SL, 3A, etc.) and check the availability of available seats. If a seat is available, click Book Now to proceed.
In this step, enter the correct names, ages, and genders of all passengers traveling. You can choose your preferred seat (e.g., lower or upper berth). If there are more than one passenger, use the Add Passenger option and enter your correct mobile number to receive PNR and ticket messages.
Before making payment, a complete summary of your journey (train name, date, and passenger list) will appear on the screen. Please double-check this carefully. If everything is correct, enter the captcha code below and click Continue.
Choose your preferred payment method, such as UPI, net banking, or debit/credit card. Then, select a secure payment gateway, enter your PIN or card details, and complete the transaction. Remember, do not go back or refresh the page while making the payment.
Your ticket will be booked as soon as the payment is deducted, and your electronic reservation slip will appear on your screen. Here you will find your 10-digit PNR number and your allotted seat information, which you can download or print.
If you’re booking a Tatkal ticket or looking for a ticket for a peak-hour trip, IRCTC’s new beta website is the best option. Its single-screen layout and reduced captchas save you valuable time, significantly increasing your chances of getting a confirmed ticket.