Train travel in India can be a unique and exciting experience, offering the chance to see the country in a different way and interact with locals in a more intimate setting.
However, it can also be overwhelming and confusing, especially for first-time travelers.
Here are ten tips to make your train travel in India more comfortable and enjoyable:
Plan ahead
Train travel in India can be busy, especially during peak seasons, so it’s important to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance.
Make sure to check the Indian Railways website for train schedules, ticket availability, and to book your tickets online.
Choose the right class
Indian trains offer a variety of classes, ranging from luxurious air-conditioned compartments to more basic non-AC coaches.
Choose the class that best fits your budget and comfort level, and remember that higher-priced classes usually come with added amenities such as bedding and meals.
Pack wisely
Make sure to pack light and bring only what you need for the journey. Indian trains can get crowded and it can be difficult to move around, so it’s best to bring a small backpack or a cabin-sized luggage bag. See packaging tips at the end of this post.
Also, bring your own food and water, as train food can be expensive and of varying quality.
Be mindful of safety
Train travel in India can be safe, but it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and to keep an eye on your belongings.
Keep your valuables in a secure place, such as a locked luggage compartment, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Get to the station early
Indian train stations can be chaotic and busy, so it’s best to arrive at the station well before your train is due to depart.
This will give you time to find your platform, get settled, and deal with any last-minute issues.
Know your train number and coach number
Once you have your tickets, make sure to note the train number and your coach number, as this information will be needed to find your compartment.
It’s also a good idea to keep a copy of your ticket and a contact number for Indian Railways in case of any issues.
Be mindful of cultural norms
Train travel in India can be an opportunity to experience local culture and interact with locals, but it’s important to be mindful of cultural norms and customs.
Avoid eating with your left hand, as it is considered unclean in India, and be mindful of your dress and behavior in mixed-gender compartments.
Use the Indian Railways app
The Indian Railways app is a great resource for train travel in India, offering information on train schedules, ticket booking, and live train status updates.
It’s also a great way to stay connected, as many trains now offer Wi-Fi and charging facilities.
Be prepared for delays
Train travel in India can be unpredictable, and delays are a common occurrence. Make sure to bring a book, music, or something to entertain yourself in case of a delay.
Also, try to be flexible and go with the flow, as delays can sometimes be a part of the adventure.
Be respectful and courteous
Train travel in India can bring you into close contact with locals, so it’s important to be respectful and courteous at all times.
Show gratitude for any help or kindness offered, and be mindful of your impact on others and the environment.
10 Packaging Tips for Train Travel
Here are ten packaging tips for train travel in India:
- Pack light – Indian trains can get crowded, so it’s best to pack light and bring only what you need for the journey. A small backpack or a cabin-sized luggage bag is recommended.
- Use a luggage lock – To protect your valuables, consider using a luggage lock on your backpack or luggage.
- Pack essentials in a carry-on bag – Make sure to pack essentials, such as your passport, ticket, money, and medication, in a carry-on bag. This will make them easily accessible and reduce the risk of loss or damage.
- Pack comfortable clothes – Train travel in India can be long and uncomfortable, so it’s important to pack comfortable clothes. Loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton, are recommended.
- Bring a jacket or shawl – Indian trains can get cold at night, so it’s a good idea to bring a jacket or shawl to keep warm.
- Pack toiletries – Toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer, are important to pack. Train restrooms can be basic, so consider bringing your own toilet paper and hand soap.
- Pack snacks and drinks – Train food can be expensive and of varying quality, so it’s best to bring your own food and drinks. Snacks, such as fruit, nuts, and crackers, are recommended.
- Bring a reusable water bottle – To save money and reduce waste, consider bringing a reusable water bottle that can be filled on the train.
- Pack entertainment – Long train journeys can be boring, so it’s a good idea to bring entertainment, such as a book, music, or a movie.
- Pack a first-aid kit – A small first-aid kit, including band-aids, pain relief medication, and antiseptic wipes, is recommended for train travel in India.
In conclusion, train travel in India can be a unique and unforgettable experience, but it’s important to be prepared and to follow some simple tips to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable.
By being mindful of safety, cultural norms, and other practical considerations, you can ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable train journey in India.