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Tuesday, September 8, 2026

Online Retiring Room Booking: Simple Guide for Train Passengers

Travelling for a long period of time can be tiring. If you're carrying heavy bags, when you exit the train at a very crowded station, your primary goal will be to find a safe spot to rest. Now you don't have to go out hunting for expensive hotels anymore. IRCTC Tourism has introduced an online retiring room booking system, which allows you to book a cosy retiring room at the station. It saves money, keeps you safe and provides you with a comfortable bed for your next connection!

What is a railway room booking?

Railway room booking is a service that provides accommodation directly at the major railway stations. You can stay for a full 24 hours or just pay for the hours you will actually need, ranging from 3 hours to 48 hours. You can opt for private single rooms, private double rooms, budget-friendly dormitory rooms with shared halls and air-conditioned rooms or rooms without air-conditioning.

Who Can Reserve a Retiring Room? 

For booking a train room, one should have a valid PNR No. Your train booking is required to be confirmed or RAC; the system will not allow bookings to be made for waitlisted tickets. One passenger can make two bookings per PNR at his/her boarding station and at his/her destination station. Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose between private single or double rooms, economical dormitories with shared halls, and options with or without air conditioning. 

Easy Steps to Book Hotel Rooms Online

When you want to book hotel rooms online or reserve station spaces through IRCTC, the process is straightforward:

Visit the Portal: Open the official IRCTC Tourism portal or Retiring Room site and enter your 10-digit train ticket PNR number. 

Choose Your Station: You can book a room at your starting (boarding) station or your final arrival station.

Select Your Slot: Choose when you will check in, how many hours you will stay (3-48), and which type of room you would like (AC/Non-AC, Single/Double, or Dormitory).

Fill Details & Pay: Enter Guest Details and pay securely for a room booking.

Why Choose These Rooms Over a Budget Hotel? 

It's okay to stay at an outside hotel, but it's better to stay at a station retiring room. For one, you will not have to pay any rupees for taxis or auto-rickshaws, as you can walk directly from your coach to your room. You also have complete flexibility with your timetable here since IRCTC does not demand that you come in at a certain time during the day, as in the case of short blocks, which can be paid for at any time. Moreover, it does not burn a hole in your pocket, with minimum prices of ₹10 to ₹40 depending on your room choice and length of stay, providing you a budget hotel. Best of all, these spaces are located within railway premises, so there are security guards on hand around the clock.

Cancellation and Important Rules

As plans can change without notice, here are a few policies you should keep in mind before you book. Two days before arrival, there will be a small 20% cancellation fee; a 50% cancellation fee will be charged if you cancel the booking one day before arrival. No refund will be granted if you cancel on the day of check-in. 

Please note: All cancellations must be done online, and we do not accept any railway ticket counters for cancelling online room bookings. Finally, arrive at check-in with a valid government-issued photo ID with ticket information.

Conclusion

For any traveller who has to wait for a connecting train or requires a quick rest, the use of an online retiring room booking is the most convenient option. It is budget-friendly and provides you with clean rooms at the train station. The next time you are packing up your bags, book your tickets in advance from the official IRCTC website using your confirmed PNR, and your travelling experience will be hassle-free and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. If my train ticket is waitlisted, may I use an online retiring room booking?

No, rooms can only be reserved if your PNR status is either confirmed or RAC.

2. What is the maximum number of hours allowed in a room?

You can reserve a stay for a minimum of 3 hours up to a maximum of 48 hours.

3. What paperwork is required when I check in?

A valid government-issued photo ID card and train ticket information are required.

4. What happens if I want to cancel my room on the check-in day? 

If you cancel on the scheduled date of check-in, no refund will be granted. 

5. Do I have the ability to make a railway room booking at an intermediate station on my journey?

No, you can reserve a room only at the beginning station or at the end station to which the PNR is connected.

Monday, September 7, 2026

Weekend Tour Package: Easy Quick Getaways with IRCTC Tourism


W
eeks are filled with work, work, work, and when it's weekend time, we all want a break from our work routine, and most of us just want to go somewhere fun and exciting! However, travelling on short notice with a limited time frame is cumbersome. A weekend tour package from IRCTC Tourism comes to the rescue. There's no need to worry about getting separate tickets, finding safe lodging at hotels or figuring out the daily travel arrangements. IRCTC takes care of all the minor details, so all you need to do is pack a bag and get comfortable this weekend on Saturday and Sunday!

IRCTC has quick tours organised for spiritual visits to a holy place, relaxing getaways to a quiet hill station or historical site visits.

Why are IRCTC Weekend Tour Packages so convenient?

Bookings made via the official booking site offer an all-in-one travel package. IRCTC ensures that users don't spend hours of their time checking multiple websites for booking train tickets and hotel rooms; rather, it consolidates all these factors into a single simple tour package for the best train journeys. Confirmed train or flight tickets (depending on your booking) in your selected class, clean and safe rooms for your group, and adequate meals (depending on your travel schedule) are typically included in each booking. In addition, you are provided with local road transfers (or local cab hire) to move you around to the main tourist destinations and with basic travel insurance for your peace of mind. These short-break trips are designed to leave right on time, arrive home in a timely manner and still be a refreshing getaway without additional days off.

Popular Types of Short Trips Available

Different people like different kinds of breaks. IRCTC Tourism caters for all with a wide range of short train journey holidays:

Pilgrimage and Spiritual Trips: If you want to visit and pray for blessings for the weekend, then you can book packages to the famous temples such as Mata Vaishno Devi Shirdi, Tirupati Balaji, etc. Many of these packages also arrange local transfers and special arrangements for the darshan of the temples.

Heritage & Historical Walks: Quick explorations of the cultural heritage of places such as Jaipur, Agra or Amritsar are great. You can visit historic forts, monuments and iconic sites such as the Golden Temple without having to think about local travel.

Nature & Hill Station Escapes: One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the mountains is through Nature & Hill Station Escapes, where you get to spend time hiking the trails through nature, enjoying the fresh air. Short trips to the likes of Shimla, Manali, Ooty and more, which provide respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, are some of the best train tours.

How to Book Your Trip Online

Booking your trip takes only a few minutes on the website. Here is how you do it:

  1. Head straight over to the official website at www.irctctourism.com.

  2. Click on the Holidays option at the top and pick Packages.

  3. Type in your preferred destination or choose the weekend trips category.

  4. Look through the day-by-day travel plan, room types, and inclusion lists.

  5. Log in using your IRCTC credentials (or sign in as a guest user).

  6. Enter passenger details and complete your payment online to get your instant booking voucher.

Part-payment options are also available on higher-value bookings, allowing you to book your seats without paying the full price.

A little bit of a break doesn't need to be costly or complicated. No travel stress, and you get quality time with family or friends by taking a well-planned weekend tour package. You can simply select the destination on IRCTC Tourism, make the booking and enjoy a refreshing vacation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I book a tour package on the IRCTC Tourism portal? 

You can book easily by visiting the official IRCTC Tourism website. Click on the 'Holidays' tab on the homepage, click 'Packages', search for your preferred destination, pick your travel dates, and log in to make your payment.

What is typically included in an IRCTC Weekend Tour Package?

Most tour packages include confirmed travel tickets (rail or air), hotel accommodation, daily meals as per the plan, AC or non-AC local transfers for sightseeing, and basic travel insurance.

Can I book a tour package using a guest account?

Yes, you do not always need a pre-existing IRCTC travel ID. You can quickly log in using the 'Guest User' option with your email address and mobile number to complete the booking.

May I change or cancel my reservation?

Yes, cancellations can be made on the website as per the cancellation policy of that package. If there are any refunds, they are applied to the method of payment.

Saturday, September 5, 2026

Summer Gateway Gangtok Tour: Your Ultimate Guide


C
an't handle the heat and need a break from it? One of the best ways to cool off in the summer months is to pack up your bags and head to a cool hill station. Visit the official IRCTC Tourism website to explore an incredible Summer Gateway Gangtok tour package. Travelling as a family or group? So, take a planned trip and don't have to worry about hotels, transport and permits!

When you have to book train tickets, local cabs, and meals, it can be a bit overwhelming when planning a summer holiday. IRCTC alleviates this by combining it all into a stress-free vacation. Let's explore the journey to Northeast India with us.

So why is Gangtok the perfect place for your vacation?

This beautiful capital of Sikkim, Gangtok, lies peacefully in the Eastern Himalayan range. Gangtok during summertime is cool and pleasant; roads are misty, green valleys abound, and there are amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga.

Some of the reasons Gangtok is the best destination for a summer holiday package are unique:

  • Sweeps of breathtaking mountain views are yours.

  • There are also places such as Rumtek Monastery, which is considered a peaceful monastery, where one can experience the old Buddhist traditions and spiritual spaces.

  • Visitors to the famous Tsomgo Lake find themselves in glacial waters amongst the mountains.

  • Vibrant Local Markets: MG Marg, Gangtok, is a pure pedestrian area ideal for evening walks, local foods and shopping.

Highlights & Itinerary Overview

If you book an IRCTC Tourism summer tour package, you will get guided tour planning, which means that you will not miss out on the best sightseeing places.


Day / Stage

Key Places & Activities

Arrival & Transfer

Pickup from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport, followed by a scenic drive to Gangtok.

Gangtok Local Sightseeing

Visit nearby monasteries, flower exhibition centres, and scenic viewpoints looking over the valley.

Excursion to Tsomgo Lake

Day trip to the high-altitude glacial lake (and Baba Mandir, subject to government permits).

Leisure & Shopping

Enjoy free time exploring MG Marg for souvenir shopping and tasting local Sikkimese snacks.

Return Journey

Transfer back to NJP or Bagdogra for your onwards train or flight home.

The official package includes a variety of items

IRCTC Tourism maintains transparency of all inclusions while booking on its official website, www.irctctourism.com, so that you are not caught off guard on your trip. Your journey begins with round-trip transportation arrangements, whether it's confirmed 3AC train berths on rail packages or private vehicle transfers from key arrival points such as New Jalpaiguri Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport. After you get there, simple but modern hotel accommodation is provided, and fixed meal packages (usually breakfast and dinner each day) will be provided at the hotel. Private or shared transport to cover all locations on the tour is also included, with help from the government to obtain permits for restricted high-altitude locations, such as the Tsomgo Lake. In addition, the standard inclusions include travel insurance and applicable GST, which ensures there is no need to deal with vendors separately and ensures the holiday is a hassle-free one.

How to Book on IRCTC Tourism

Reserving your summer vacation train package online is a simple process and only requires a few steps:

1. Go to the official IRCTC Tourism website – irctctourism.com.

2. Enter the name "Gangtok" in the search bar or go to the "Domestic Tour Packages" section.

3. Choose your favourite train or land package for the summer vacation, depending on your point of origin and departure date.

4. Select single, double or triple occupancy.

5. Complete traveller information, pay for your trip through the secure portal and download your confirmation voucher.

Conclusion

Wrapping up your summer plans does not have to mean spending hours juggling hotel bookings, permits, and cabs on your own. Booking the Summer Gateway Gangtok Tour through IRCTC Tourism lets you skip the usual travel headaches and jump straight to enjoying the cool mountain air, serene monasteries, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. If you are ready to swap the scorching city heat for a hassle-free vacation, head over to lock in your spots before the peak season fills up!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I make a package tour with IRCTC Tourism?

Book your summer holiday package online on the IRCTC Tourism website. Just type in your destination, pick dates, select accommodation type and pay via credit card, debit card, net banking or UPI.

2. Do train tickets cover summer vacation train packages?

Yes, rail tickets (3AC or standard sleeper) for rail-based packages are included in the overall package cost, along with hotel stays and local transfers.

3. When I want to cancel an IRCTC tour package, what will happen?

Cancellation policies vary according to the number of days remaining until your departure date. To cancel a request, one has to log in to their IRCTC Tourism account. Such deductions will be made as per the official cancellation policy available on the IRCTC FAQ page.

4. Is a special permit required for visiting places such as Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La in Gangtok?

Yes, there are some high-altitude areas in border areas where special government permits are required for travel. The IRCTC or local tour representative helps arrange permits for the points which are available in your package tour. Valid proof of photo ID and passport-size photos will be required.

5. Do you offer any part payment options for tour package?

IRCTC Tourism provides a part payment facility for selected packages with the amount exceeding ₹50,000 per transaction for bookings made at least 35 days before the date of departure. A deposit (typically 25-30%) is usually made, and the balance is paid at least 30 days before travel.

Discover the best Goa packages with IRCTC Tourism


You're ready to take a break and go down to the beach, but you don't know how? You aren’t alone. When planning a holiday, it can sometimes become quite a headache when you need to do your train ticket calculations, book hotels and search for local cab services that won't charge you an outrageous amount of money. That's where well-sorted packages of IRCTC Tourism can come to your rescue. The official
Goa packages offered by IRCTC Tourism can save you all the hassles, from planning to just packing your bags and heading for a relaxed beach holiday.

Why Choose IRCTC for Your Beach Vacation?

When you book via the official website, you will have complete transparency without any hidden costs appearing on your bill. Your train fares, hotel accommodation, breakfast and transfers are all arranged within a single price. Travelling with family, friends from college or even alone, Indian Railways makes it easy for you to rest easy knowing you are in good hands, which can't be matched by a private aggregator.

Explore at Your Own Pace with the Hop On Hop Off Goa Tour 

After you arrive at the station or step off the train, you may find it quite a bit of money to use local taxis daily in Goa. One efficient and super cheap solution to this issue is the option of a Hop-On Hop-Off Goa Tour.

They are open-top double-decker buses that travel the all-important routes in North and South Goa. Stop where you want: perhaps an old church in Old Goa or a nice beach in Panaji; take as long as you like to make photographs, then hop on the next bus as it arrives. It leaves you completely free of a rigid "must see this, must see that" tour schedule.

Hassle-Free Rail Trips: Goa Tour Packages from Vadodara by Train

If one is travelling from Gujarat and wants to proceed straight down south, they can pick up the Goa tour packages from Vadodara by train and make things really easy for themselves. Travellers taking the train from Vadodara Junction take a seat in their assigned berths and witness the beautiful landscape of Konkan Railways with dense forests and long tunnels.

IRCTC gives you a confirmed train ticket (3AC or Sleeper as per your class of service), a comfortable hotel room at your destination, a delicious breakfast and organises the vehicle pick-up for sightseeing. Sweep away all of the uncertainty from multi-city transit!

Budget Travel Made Easy with Cheap Goa Tours

A vacation shouldn't come with financial stress pressing stress on your bank savings account. For those who prefer an affordable experience that doesn't require sacrificing any comforts, IRCTC has also catered to the cost-conscious traveller by providing its list of cheap Goa tours, which feature basic packages and only include necessary elements like a safe place to stay, a reliable mode of transport, and even booked train tickets. You are not charged for the added luxury you won't use all day long while you're out enjoying the ocean breeze.

Plan Your Dream Beach Vacation Today

It's not difficult to plan a trip to the most popular state in India for its beaches, and it doesn't have to be costly. Reserved through the official IRCTC Tourism website, you can rest assured that these Goa packages are well planned and priced to be easy on your pocket providing you with an unforgettable trip to Goa. Go to the portal today, see when the next train runs from your nearest station and be ready for some sun, sand and sea!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the ways to find Goa packages on the Web?

It is easy to book IRCTC tour packages through the official website of IRCTC Tourism. All you have to do is enter your destination in the search box, choose your starting point, set your travel dates and pay with net banking, UPI or cards in a safe manner.

2. Do these train tours include meals?

Most standard tour packages include daily breakfast at the hotel and meals as noted for the train trips. Please review the details of the specific itinerary before paying on the booking page under the "Inclusions" tab.

3. What are the tour cancellation terms?

If you wish to cancel, sign in to your profile on the official site and request a cancellation. Refunds are in accordance with the standard railway rules and depend on the number of days before departure.

4. Are solo travellers safe with the Hop On Hop Off bus?

Yes, absolutely. The open-top bus service runs on predetermined government-approved routes and certified staff and is a popular, safe and convenient way for singles to explore the beaches and heritage sites.

5. Can I make a private visit plan for a group tour?

Fixed group train packages follow a pre-planned itinerary to keep transport smooth for everyone. However, if you want full flexibility, you can opt for customised land packages or use daily sightseeing bus passes once you arrive.

Thursday, August 13, 2026

Discover Royal Forts and Palaces with IRCTC Tourism's Curated Tour Packages to Rajasthan

Dream of exploring magnificent hill forts, grand palaces, and the endless golden sands of the Thar Desert? Trying to plan a multi-city trip across Rajasthan entirely on your own, booking individual hotels, haggling with cab drivers, and piecing together daily itineraries can quickly become overwhelming.

That is where official tour packages from IRCTC Tourism make all the difference. Whether you choose the carefully planned holiday, travelling across this royal state becomes smooth, affordable, and stress-free. From the iconic pink architecture of Jaipur to the tranquil lakefronts of Udaipur, these trips let you pack your bags, board your train, and soak in every moment without handling any logistics yourself.

Why Choose IRCTC Tourism for Your Trip? 

Rajasthan is vast, and its major tourist attractions are located across the state. It's time-consuming and cumbersome to book individual train tickets, find reliable local drivers and find good hotel rooms without any help. If you book online on the official website www.irctctourism.com, it is all in one package providing you with the best train journeys.

IRCTC is renowned for its reliable and convenient train booking services, making it a popular choice for travellers in India. There is no need to invest hours on several booking websites or look for discounts.

Typically, your package will include the following:

  • Comfortable Stays: A comfortable stay as per the choice of package. 

  • Transfers: At all railway stations and for sightseeing, transfers are provided in AC or non-AC cabs/coaches.

  • Meals Included: Meals served as indicated in your package itinerary.

  • Travel Insurance: An added layer of security and peace of mind for the traveller while on tour.

Top Destinations Covered on the Itinerary 

There is a lot of colour contrast throughout Rajasthan; one day you walk inside a fortress at the top of a hill, and the next day you experience a peaceful sunset over a shiny lake. The Gems Of Rajasthan Tour Package from IRCTC Tourism includes all the key attractions:

  1. Jaipur (The Pink City): Explore iconic monuments like the Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, and Hawa Mahal, along with bustling local markets like Bapu Bazaar.

  2. Jodhpur (The Blue City): Walk through the grand Mehrangarh Fort, visit Jaswant Thada, and admire the royal artefacts inside Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum.

  3. Udaipur (City of Lakes): Visit the impressive City Palace overlooking Lake Pichola and enjoy peaceful views near Fateh Sagar Lake.

  4. Bikaner & Jaisalmer: Venture deep into the desert heartland to see Junagarh Fort, historic havelis like Patwon ki Haveli, and famous war museums.

  5. Pushkar: Visit sacred places such as the world-famous Brahma Temple and more.

Simple Steps to Book Your Package Online

The booking process on the official website takes a few minutes. No complicated technical operations are required:

  • Go to www.irctctourism.com using your web browser.

  • On the home page, use the main search bar and enter 'Rajasthan' in it and press search.

  • Next, go through the list of packages and find the ones you want, then click on 'View Details'.

  • Read through the itinerary, pricing and accommodation as well as inclusions on the train or the road.

  • Choose the number of guests, enter the passenger information, and make your booking with your debit card, credit card or net banking.

You can also book the jewels of Rajasthan and other packages from the official website. Upon successful payment, your confirmation voucher as well as SMS ticket details will be sent automatically to your inbox.

Conclusion

It is an experience every traveller must make at least once in their lifetime. It is a really memorable place with majestic architecture, the warm hospitality of the people of Rajasthan, folk music, and delicious local cuisine. You can easily book any tour package that fits your choice and budget. Visit www.irctctourism.com today, select your travel dates, and prepare to experience royal India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Do IRCTC Rajasthan tour packages include hotel accommodation and local transportation?

Yes, IRCTC tour packages comprise comfortable hotel lodging with AC and non-AC vehicle transfers for all the sightseeing and transfers in the package.

Q2. How can I easily find the Gems Of Rajasthan tour package on the website?

Just go to www.irctctourism.com and enter 'Gems of Rajasthan' in the search bar at the top; click on 'details' to view pricing, departure points, and dates.

Q4. Which are the modes of payment on the IRCTC Tourism website?

Tour payment can be done online via net banking, credit or debit card, or UPI. On the portal, there are also part payment options for certain package bookings that are available.

Q5. Are tour guides available at historical locations?

Yes, IRCTC Tourism's dedicated tour packages offer guide services during the sightseeing trip to the major historical forts, palaces, and monuments that are in the programme.