Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy

Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy,   Travelling with kids on Indian Railways can be confusing if you don’t know the rules about child tickets. In this post, we explain everything parents must know before booking tickets for their children on IRCTC. Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy

Whether you are travelling with toddlers or school-aged kids, this guide will help you understand IRCTC rules, avoid fines, and make your train journey smooth and stress-free.  Don’t forget to share this guide with other parents who are planning a train trip with their kids!

Age Limit for Child Tickets

When travelling by Indian Railways, it is very important for parents to understand the rules regarding child tickets. According to railway guidelines:

• Children below 5 years of age can travel with their parents without requiring a separate seat or ticket. This makes it easier for families with toddlers to travel comfortably.

• Children aged 5 to 12 years must have a child ticket. These tickets are cheaper than adult tickets and are mandatory for children in this age group.

• Children above 12 years of age are considered adults and must have a full adult ticket. Following these rules ensures that there are no issues during ticket checking or travel.  Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy

How to Book Child Tickets on IRCTC

Booking a child ticket on IRCTC is simple, but parents must follow the correct procedure to avoid mistakes:

• When entering passenger details on the IRCTC website or app, make sure to enter the correct age of the child. Age must match the official proof of age.

• For children between 5 and 12 years, select the “Child” option while adding passenger details. This ensures the correct fare is applied.

• For children under 5 years, you can add them under a parent’s ticket without selecting a separate seat. This is convenient for small children who will sit with their parents.

• Always double-check the details before proceeding with payment to avoid ticket cancellation or fines.  Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy

Seat Reservation for Children

While booking child tickets, parents should also understand the seat reservation rules:

• Children under 5 years do not require a separate seat, and they can travel comfortably on a parent’s lap.

• Children aged 5–12 years must have a reserved seat or berth. This is particularly important for long journeys where the child needs proper space to sit or sleep.

• Reserving a seat for children ensures safety, comfort, and convenience during the journey, especially in sleeper or AC coaches.  Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy

Rules for Travelling with Children

Travelling with kids requires extra precautions and awareness:

• Always carry a proof of age for the child, such as a birth certificate, Aadhaar card, or school ID. Railway staff may ask for it during ticket checking.

• Children under 5 must always be accompanied by parents or a legal guardian. Unaccompanied minors are not allowed to travel alone.

• Some trains offer special facilities for children, including kid-friendly meals or additional safety features. Check these options while booking to make travel comfortable.  Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy

Important Points About Child Tickets

Parents should keep these points in mind while travelling:

• Entering the wrong age may lead to ticket cancellation or fines. Accuracy is crucial.

• Always ensure that seat and ticket details are correct while booking on IRCTC.

• For long-distance travel, try to reserve a separate berth for children to ensure comfort and safety.

• Prioritize child safety, food, and rest during travel, as rail journeys can be tiring for young ones.

• Keep a first aid kit, snacks, and water handy to make the journey smooth.   Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy

 By following these guidelines, parents can ensure that travelling with children on Indian Railways is safe, smooth, and enjoyable. Understanding the IRCTC child ticket rules helps avoid last-minute problems and ensures a comfortable journey for the whole family.  Understanding Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy

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