Tatkal Ticket Booking Time : Indian Railways has once again revised the Tatkal ticket booking rules, this time updating the booking timings effective from May 30, 2025. The new changes are aimed at streamlining the reservation process, reducing server overload, and making the ticket booking experience smoother for passengers. With the summer travel season in full swing, this update is expected to significantly impact millions of travelers who rely on last-minute bookings.
Let’s understand what’s changing, who it affects, and how you can make the most of the revised Tatkal booking system.
What is Tatkal Ticket Booking Time?
Tatkal is a special ticket booking facility offered by Indian Railways that allows passengers to book confirmed tickets at short notice, usually just one day before the journey. While convenient, Tatkal bookings often come with higher fares and limited seat availability due to high demand.
Key Features of Tatkal Ticket Booking:
- Meant for emergency or last-minute travel
- Limited seats available
- Higher charges compared to regular tickets
- Opens a day before the journey date (excluding the date of journey)
- Bookable via IRCTC website, app, and authorized agents
What Has Changed in the Tatkal Booking Time?
Indian Railways has changed the Tatkal ticket booking start timings based on train categories and classes. This move is intended to reduce server congestion and improve booking speed. The change will be effective from May 30, 2025.
New Tatkal Booking Timings (Effective May 30, 2025):
| Train Type | Class of Travel | Old Booking Time | New Booking Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Classes | 1A, 2A, 3A, CC | 10:00 AM | 9:45 AM |
| Sleeper Class | SL | 11:00 AM | 9:55 AM |
| Premium Trains | Rajdhani, Duronto | 10:00 AM | 9:40 AM |
| Suvidha Trains | All Classes | 10:00 AM | 9:35 AM |
| Shatabdi Express | CC, EC | 10:00 AM | 9:45 AM |
| Mail/Express | All Classes | As per category | Follow above |
| IRCTC Website/App | Online Booking | Platform-specific | Updated accordingly |
| Agents | IRCTC Authorized Agents | 15 mins after public | Remains unchanged |
Note: These timings apply for booking Tatkal tickets for trains departing the next day. Date of journey is not counted while booking Tatkal tickets.
Why This Change Matters
This change is aimed at decongesting the IRCTC ticketing system during peak hours and distributing traffic more evenly throughout the day. It will help passengers:
- Avoid booking delays and server crashes
- Experience smoother booking process
- Increase chances of ticket confirmation
Benefits for Travelers:
- Earlier access to Tatkal quota
- Better booking speeds on IRCTC portal
- Fewer technical errors or booking failures
- Balanced booking load on servers
Tips to Successfully Book Tatkal Tickets
Booking a Tatkal ticket requires both timing and strategy. Here are some practical tips to ensure success:
- Login before time: Be ready at least 10 minutes before the new timing
- Pre-fill passenger details: Save traveler information in IRCTC profile
- Use fast internet: Prefer broadband or high-speed mobile data
- Avoid multiple tabs: Use one tab to avoid session conflicts
- Use autofill tools: Helps in quick entry of data (only if allowed)
How Much Does Tatkal Booking Cost?
Tatkal charges are additional to the base fare and vary depending on the class of travel. Below is a table showing the indicative Tatkal charges:
| Class | Minimum Tatkal Charge | Maximum Tatkal Charge |
|---|---|---|
| Second Sitting (2S) | ₹10 | ₹15 |
| Sleeper (SL) | ₹100 | ₹200 |
| AC Chair Car (CC) | ₹125 | ₹225 |
| AC 3 Tier (3A) | ₹300 | ₹400 |
| AC 2 Tier (2A) | ₹400 | ₹500 |
| Executive Class (EC) | ₹400 | ₹500 |
| First AC (1A) | ₹400 | ₹500 |
The final fare includes base fare + Tatkal charges + GST and other applicable charges.
How to Book Tatkal Tickets Online
Booking a Tatkal ticket through IRCTC is easy if done right. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the IRCTC official website or open the IRCTC app
- Log in at least 10 minutes before the booking time
- Select the destination and date (next day of travel)
- Choose Tatkal quota from the options
- Select train and class
- Fill in passenger details quickly
- Proceed to payment and confirm the booking
Who Should Take Note of This Update?
This update is important for:
- Daily commuters and office travelers
- Students and professionals relying on last-minute travel
- Families planning emergency travel
- Travel agents and tour operators
Ignoring the new timings might result in missing the Tatkal quota or failed bookings.
Conclusion of Tatkal Ticket Booking Time
The Indian Railways’ decision to revise the Tatkal ticket booking time is a proactive step to manage traffic and enhance user experience. Passengers must take note of the new timings from May 30, 2025 to avoid confusion and maximize their chances of securing a confirmed seat under the Tatkal quota.