IRCTC
Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, is a subsidiary of the Indian railways
that handles the catering, tourism and online ticketing operations of the Indian
Railways. It is known for changing the face of railway ticketing in India. It pioneered
internet-based rail ticket booking through its website, as well as from the mobile
phones. IRCTC also offers I-tickets that are basically like regular tickets except
that they are booked online and delivered by post. The tickets PNR status is also
made available. It has also launched a loyalty program called Shubh Yatra for frequent
travellers. Through this program, passengers can avail of discounts on all tickets
booked round the year by paying an upfront annual fee.
IRCTC also organizes budget and deluxe package tours for domestic and foreign tourists.
A popular tourism package for budget tourists covering important tourist destinations
across India is Bharat Darsahn. Luxury tourism packages are also available, that
involve special luxury trains such as Maharaja Express and Circuit Train.
Under the Tatkal scheme, passengers who plan their journey at short notice can book
their tickets in almost all mail and express trains through the Indian railways
internet portal. The booking starts at 10:00 am daily for AC coach reservation and
for Non-Ac timing is residual to 11:00 am, one day prior to journey date.
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