Indian Railways Special Trains: How to Find and Book
During festivals (Diwali, Chhath, Holi), summer holidays and big events, Indian Railways runs special trains on busy routes. They’re bookable on IRCTC like regular trains, but they’re announced at short notice and often carry special fares. Here’s how to find and book them.
How to identify a special train
- Most special trains have 5-digit numbers starting with 0 (for example 0xxxx).
- They appear in normal IRCTC search results once notified, often marked “Special” or with special fare.
How to find special trains
- Search your route and date on IRCTC. Notified specials show up with regular trains.
- Check the zonal railway’s website and official social media (for example Central Railway or Northern Railway), where specials are announced first.
- Use NTES to see running days and schedules.
Booking special trains
- Booking is done the same way as a regular train on IRCTC.
- The advance booking period can be shorter than the usual 60 days, as specials are notified later.
- Fares may be special fares, higher than regular trains on the same route.
- Tatkal quota may or may not be available, depending on the train.
Frequently asked questions
Are special train tickets refundable?
Normal cancellation rules generally apply unless Railways notifies otherwise. See IRCTC refund rules.
Related guides
Official links: IRCTC · NTES. Easy Guide India is not affiliated with Indian Railways.