Indian Railways Ticket Rules for Children: Free Travel and 50% Discount Explained
While children below the age of 5 years can travel free of cost, children between 5 and 12 years are charged based on whether they require a separate seat or berth.
Indian Railways has specific ticket fare rules for parents travelling with children. While children below the age of 5 years can travel free of cost, children between 5 and 12 years are charged based on whether they require a separate seat or berth. Indian Railways Ticket Rules for Children: Free Travel and 50% Discount Explained.
Train travel remains one of the most affordable options for long-distance journeys. As one of the largest railway networks in the world, Indian Railways operates thousands of trains every day, carrying millions of passengers. When travelling with family, especially with children, it is important to understand the ticket booking rules and fare structure.
Free Train Travel for Children Below 5 Years:
Under Indian Railways rules, children below 5 years of age can travel free if they do not require a separate seat or berth. Parents can travel with the child without booking a separate seat or berth. While booking tickets through the IRCTC website, passengers can select the “Add Infant Without Berth” option and enter the child’s details.
If parents want a separate seat or berth for the child, they need to book a ticket by paying the full applicable fare.
Train Ticket Fare for Children Aged 5 to 12 Years:
Children between the ages of 5 and 12 years have two options while travelling by train:
1. Half Fare if No Separate Berth is Required:
If a child does not need a separate seat or berth, a fare equivalent to 50% of the adult basic fare is charged as per applicable railway rules. In this case, no separate berth will be allotted to the child.
2. Full Fare if a Separate Berth is Required:
If parents want a separate berth for the child, especially during long-distance journeys, they must book a ticket by paying the full adult fare.
Children Above 12 Years Need Full Ticket:
According to Indian Railways rules, passengers who are 12 years of age or above on the date of journey are generally required to pay the full adult ticket fare. This rule applies to both reserved and unreserved train journeys.
Important Points to Remember While Travelling with Children by Train:
Age Proof: Passengers should carry documents such as the child’s Aadhaar card, birth certificate, or school identity card for verification, if required.
Age on the Date of Journey: The child’s age on the actual date of travel is considered, not the age at the time of ticket booking.
Berth Reservation: If a separate berth is required for the child, passengers should select the appropriate option while booking the ticket. Understanding these rules can help parents avoid confusion and ensure a smooth train journey with children.
