The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has made online booking for train tickets convenient and hassle-free. The Govt organisation allows passengers to book tickets online through the IRCTC website or IRCTC app and complete the process with any online payment method of their choice. People can also book tickets through travel booking websites too, like Paytm, Make My trip and so on.
However, to book train tickets from these websites or even from IRCTC online web page or App, you will need to create an IRCTC account first. So, if you are also planning to book train tickets but do not have an IRCTC account, here is a short guide on how to create an IRCTC account and book train tickets online.
How to create IRCTC account
Step 1: Visit the IRCTC website- www.irctc.co.in
Step 2: Click on the "Register" button on the top right corner of the page.
Step 3: Select the user type: "Individual"
Step 4: Fill in the required details such as your name, date of birth, gender, email ID, mobile number, and address.
Step 5: Choose a username and password for your IRCTC account. The username should be unique and between 3 to 35 characters.
Step 6: Select a security question and answer that you can easily remember in case you need to reset your password.
Step 7: Verify the process by entering the Captcha code.
Step 8: Click on Submit.
Step 9: Fill up a valid email ID and mobile number as your login password.
Step 10: You will receive an OTP (One Time Password) on your registered mobile number and email ID.
Step 11: Enter the OTP in the required field and click on the "Submit" button.
Notably, make sure to add correct and accurate details while creating your IRCTC account, as this information will be used for all future bookings. Additionally, keep your username and password safe and secure to prevent unauthorized access to your account.
How to book train ticket from IRCTC online
After making an account on IRCTC, here's how you can book a train ticket for yourself online:
Step 1: Log in to your IRCTC account.
Step 2: Select the departure and destination stations along with the date of travel.
Step 3: Next select the class of travel, such as 1st AC, 2nd AC, 3rd AC, Sleeper, etc.
Step 4: Now click on "Find Trains" to check the available trains and timings.
Step 5: Select the train that you want to travel on and click on "Check Availability & Fare".
Step 6: Select the quota (such as General, Tatkal, Ladies, etc.) and click on "Book Now".
Step 7: Enter the passenger details (such as name, age, gender, and berth preference) and click on "Continue Booking".
Step 8: Review the details of your booking and click on "Make Payment".
Step 9: Choose a payment method (such as credit/debit card, net banking, or e-wallet) and enter the payment details.
Step 10: Click on "Make Payment" to complete your booking.
Step 11: Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation message and email with your ticket details.
