Holi 2024: Railways open train bookings, tickets filling fast!

Holi, the vibrant festival of colors, may still be a few months away, but the preparations have already begun, especially for those planning to travel during this festive season. Scheduled for March 25th next year, Holi promises a joyous celebration, but if you're thinking of heading home for the festivities, time is of the essence.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has kicked off train bookings for the Holi period, and the rush is evident. Reports suggest that in certain train routes, tickets are swiftly moving to the waiting list, signaling the urgency for prospective travelers.

For instance, on the Magadh Express for March 23rd, only Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) seats are currently available in the sleeper class. A similar scenario unfolds on the Rjpb Tejas Raj route from Delhi to Patna.


Delving into the Delhi-Bhagalpur route on March 23rd, tickets are readily available in most classes, except for the Vikramshila Express, where all class tickets have already transitioned to the waiting list. Even the Garib Rath sees third AC tickets available solely on the waiting list.

Exploring the Mumbai-Lucknow route, a region well-connected by numerous trains, reveals an unexpected situation. Despite three months remaining for Holi, certain trains such as the Pushpak Express and Pnvl Gkp Express are already facing unavailability of sleeper and second AC tickets.

While Indian Railways typically introduces special trains during festive seasons, the demand invariably outstrips the supply, leaving many stranded or resorting to exorbitant last-minute bookings. The Railways do impose cancellation charges, but these are a modest sum compared to the potential expenses incurred with last-minute bookings.

According to railway guidelines, "If a confirmed ticket is cancelled more than 48 hrs before the scheduled departure of the train, flat cancellation charges shall be deducted." The charges vary, with Rs. 240 for AC First Class/Executive Class, Rs. 200 for AC 2 Tier/First Class, Rs. 180 for AC 3 Tier/AC Chair car/ AC 3 Economy, Rs. 120 for Sleeper Class, and Rs. 60 for Second Class.

In light of this, prospective travelers are strongly advised to secure their train tickets at the earliest to evade the last-minute rush and potential inconveniences. As the festive fervor builds, planning ahead ensures a smoother and more enjoyable journey to celebrate Holi with loved ones.