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Indian Railways child ticket policy: IRCTC ticket booking rules parents must know before travelling with kids

IRCTC Train Ticket Booking Rules for Child: "On the demand of the passengers, an option has been given to them to buy a ticket and book a berth for their under 5 year old child if they want. And if they don’t want a separate berth, then it is free, same like it used to be earlier," railways said in a release.

2 min readUpdated: Nov 10, 2025 03:27 PM IST

It is to mention here that trains continue to be one of the most affordable travel options compared to other modes of transport. (Image: Ministry of Railways)

Indian Railways child ticket rules: As Indian Railways begins ticket bookings for the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays, many passengers are expected to travel with their children to popular tourist destinations across the country, especially as schools remain closed for winter vacation. It is to mention here that trains continue to be one of the most affordable travel options compared to other modes of transport.

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Indian Railways child ticket policy

Thus, it is essential for parents to be aware of Indian Railways child ticket policy. As per the rules, children below five years of age can travel for free without the need to purchase a ticket. However, there is an exception to this provision. Therefore, parents must aware themselves with the child fare rules before planning their journey.

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Indian Railways child fare rules, IRCTC child ticket

Here’s a complete breakdown of Indian Railways child fare rules based on age limit. Take a look:

Indian Railways child ticket age limit

Below 5 years

Travel free of cost (No separate berth required)

5 to less than 12 years

No berth/seat required? Child fare
Want a separate berth/seat? Adult fare

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12 years & Above

Charged full adult fare

According to a circular issued by Ministry of Railways dated March 6, 2020, “…that Children under five years of age shall be carried free. However, separate berth or seat(in chair car) shall not be given. Therefore purchase of any ticket is not required provided separate berth is not claimed. However, if berth/seat shall be sought on voluntary basis for children of age below 5 years then full adult fare shall be charged.

Anish Mondal

Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More

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