To handle the increased demand during the Diwali-Dussehra season, IRCTC is running 102 special train trips. Bookings for these trains are open on the official IRCTC website and app. Here's how you can secure your tickets and travel smoothly during this festive period.
Key Dates and Booking Details
These special trains will operate between October 5 and November 10, 2026. Booking for these trains is open now, and it's advisable to book early to avoid the rush.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Booking Opens | Already open |
| First Train Departure | October 5, 2026 |
| Last Train Departure | November 10, 2026 |
How to Book Your Tickets
- Visit irctc.co.in or open the IRCTC app.
- Log in to your account or create a new account if you don't have one.
- Select the 'Plan My Journey' option.
- Enter your source and destination stations, and choose your travel date.
- Look for trains marked as 'Special' and click 'Check Availability'.
- Select your preferred train and class, then click 'Book Now'.
- Fill in passenger details and proceed to payment.
- Once payment is successful, you will receive your e-ticket via email and SMS.
What to Do If Trains Are Fully Booked
If the special trains are fully booked, consider these options:
- Check for availability in other classes like Sleeper or 3AC, which might have more seats.
- Look for regular trains on the same route as they might still have seats available.
- Use the Tatkal booking option, which opens one day before the travel date, at 10 AM for AC classes and 11 AM for Sleeper classes.
- Keep an eye on the PNR status of your waitlisted ticket, as additional berths may be released closer to the departure date.
Common Issues and How to Resolve Them
Here are some common issues you might face while booking:
- Payment Failure: If your payment fails, check your bank statement first. If the amount is deducted, it should be refunded automatically within 7 days. For immediate rebooking, try using a different payment method.
- Website/App Crashes: During peak hours, the website or app might crash. Wait for a few minutes and try again. For critical bookings, use both the website and app simultaneously to increase your chances.
Tips for a Successful Booking
- Log in to your IRCTC account before the booking time to save important minutes.
- Keep passenger details handy to fill them in quickly during the booking process.
- Use a fast internet connection to minimize delays and avoid timeouts during payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the special trains for Diwali-Dussehra start running?
The special trains start from October 5, 2026, and run until November 10, 2026.
How can I book tickets for these special trains?
You can book tickets through the IRCTC website or app by selecting the 'Special' trains in the 'Plan My Journey' section.
What if the special trains are fully booked?
Consider booking regular trains, check for other classes, use Tatkal booking, or monitor the PNR status for waitlisted tickets.
What should I do if my payment fails during booking?
Check your bank statement. If the amount is deducted, it will be refunded within 7 days. Try a different payment method for rebooking.
What are the booking timings for Tatkal tickets?
Tatkal booking opens at 10 AM for AC classes and 11 AM for Sleeper classes, one day before the travel date.