Train travel in India: how to get a confirmed seat on a busy festival route

• Book 120 days in advance when the window opens.
• Try the "premium tatkal" if you must travel.
• Check an alternative station nearby.
• Watch for cancellation charts 4 hours before departure.

Choose a flexible route: sometimes a train from a nearby larger station has seats when your local one is full. Keep your ID and the ticket on your phone and in print.

If you remain on the waiting list, check the chart again 4 hours before departure.

This is a demo story: every name, place, organisation and figure in it is fictional.