Does Vande bharat have Tatkal: The Vande Bharat Express, also known as Train-18, has taken India’s railways to a new level of speed, comfort, and convenience. First introduced in 2019 on the New Delhi-Varanasi route, this fully air-conditioned, semi-high-speed train has quickly gained popularity. But for travelers looking to book a seat at the last minute, a big question arises: Does the Vande Bharat Express offer Tatkal booking?
1. Does Vande Bharat Have Tatkal Quota?
Yes, the Vande Bharat Express does offer a Tatkal quota for passengers, making it possible to book seats close to your travel date. This feature is great for those who need flexible, last-minute travel options.
2. What Makes Tatkal Booking in Vande Bharat Different?
The Tatkal scheme on the Vande Bharat Express aligns with regular Indian Railways guidelines, with a few specific differences:
- Limited Seats: Tatkal quota seats are limited, so they tend to fill up quickly. Booking early within the Tatkal window increases your chances.
- Higher Fares: Tatkal ticket fares are generally higher than standard fares, as with other trains. So, budget-conscious travelers should keep this in mind.
3. How to Book a Tatkal Ticket on Vande Bharat
Booking a Tatkal ticket for Vande Bharat is simple and follows the same process as booking any Indian Railways Tatkal ticket. Here’s a quick guide:
- Open the IRCTC Website/App: Start by logging into your IRCTC account, where you’ll find the Tatkal booking option.
- Select Vande Bharat and Travel Date: Choose your preferred route and make sure it’s a travel date available for Vande Bharat.
- Choose Tatkal Quota: Select the “Tatkal” option in the quota dropdown menu when choosing your travel class.
- Fill in Passenger Details: Enter details like passenger name, age, and any preferences.
- Complete Payment: Finally, proceed with the payment to confirm your booking.
Since Tatkal bookings open at 10 AM for AC classes, securing a seat can require quick action.
4. Important Points About Tatkal Booking on Vande Bharat
Here are a few additional details to keep in mind about Tatkal bookings:
- No Concessions: Concession fares for Tatkal tickets are not available. This applies to senior citizens, Divyang, journalists, and child fares.
- Refund and Cancellation: Tatkal tickets have different cancellation rules. The refund policies align with Shatabdi trains, meaning partial refunds on cancellations are not available once the ticket is confirmed.
5. What Sets Vande Bharat Apart: Not Just About Tatkal
The Vande Bharat Express is designed for travelers who value convenience and a premium experience. Here are a few of its more notable features:
- Fully Air-Conditioned Coaches: The Vande Bharat is entirely air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment even on the hottest days.
- Modern Amenities: From automatic doors to onboard Wi-Fi, this train is equipped with everything a modern traveler might need.
- Eco-Friendly Toilets: The train includes bio-vacuum toilets, which are more eco-friendly and hygienic.
- Onboard Catering Options: Passengers can pre-book meals during ticket booking. If you didn’t opt for catering in advance, you can still purchase onboard for an additional fee of Rs. 50.
6. Vande Bharat Express: Booking Beyond Tatkal
Apart from Tatkal, Vande Bharat tickets can also be booked under the General quota, catering to travelers who plan in advance. This quota has regular fares and offers a wider range of seats, making it ideal for early planners.
7. FAQs on Vande Bharat Tatkal Booking
Can I get a Tatkal ticket for Vande Bharat on weekends?
Yes, Vande Bharat runs on select days, including weekends.
Does opting out of catering affect Tatkal ticket prices?
If you opt out of catering, your ticket fare is adjusted accordingly. However, if you want to add catering later, there’s an additional fee.
Is it possible to cancel a Tatkal ticket?
Yes, but refunds are limited and follow strict Tatkal policies.
In summary, if you’re planning a trip on the Vande Bharat Express but need flexibility, the Tatkal quota provides an option for last-minute bookings. However, keep in mind the different fare structure, refund policies, and limited availability associated with Tatkal tickets. Happy travels on one of India’s most prestigious trains!
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