Tiny Travellers, Big Rules: What IRCTC Wants Every Parent to Know

IRCTC’s child ticket rules make train travel smoother for families this festive season  
As holiday travel picks up, Indian Railways has issued a clear guide for parents booking tickets through IRCTC. The child ticket policy, often misunderstood, now comes with simplified options that balance affordability and comfort for young passengers.

Children under 5 can travel free without a separate berth. However, if parents want a berth for their under-5 child, they must purchase a full ticket. For children aged 5 to 12, IRCTC offers two choices: pay half fare without a berth or full fare with one. Kids aged 12 and above are charged full adult fare. Accurate age entry and berth preference during booking are crucial to avoid last-minute issues or penalties.

Major takeaways  

• Children under 5 travel free if no berth is needed  
• Under-5s can get a berth only with a full ticket  
• Children aged 5–12 pay half fare without berth, full fare with berth  
• Children 12 and above pay full adult fare  
• Parents must specify berth preference while booking to ensure smooth travel  

Sources: NDTV Travel, Indian Express, Times of India, India.com