Train travel in India during festivals is notoriously hectic. Overcrowded coaches, endless waitlists, and sky-high prices make the journey stressful. But here’s some good news: Indian Railways has just introduced a discount that could make your next trip smoother and cheaper.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a new scheme called the “Round Trip Package for Festival Rush.” Under this offer, passengers booking onward and return tickets together will get a 20% discount on the base fare of the return ticket. This initiative aims to ease congestion and make festival travel more manageable.
So, how does it work?
First, you need to book your onward ticket. Once that’s done, use the connecting journey option to reserve your return ticket. The discount will automatically apply to the base fare of the return leg. Simple, right?
But there are some rules. Both tickets must be in the same passenger’s name and for the same class. The journey must also be between the same stations. And forget about last-minute changes — no modifications or refunds are allowed under this scheme.
Here’s another catch. The offer isn’t valid for Flexi Fare trains, but it covers most other categories, including special trains. Whether you book online or at the station counter, just make sure both tickets are booked through the same method.
Why is this discount being introduced? Indian Railways is trying to manage the seasonal rush better. By encouraging passengers to plan their trips in advance, the system hopes to distribute the crowd over several days. This could mean fewer overflowing trains and higher chances of securing a confirmed ticket.
With festivals around the corner, this discount could be a game-changer for many travelers. No more scrambling for last-minute tickets or paying through the nose for a return journey. Just remember to plan ahead, follow the rules, and enjoy the savings.
If you’re thinking of taking a train this festive season, now might be the perfect time to book. A 20% discount is nothing to sneeze at, especially when it comes with the added bonus of a more relaxed travel experience.