IRCTC Retiring Room Booking: A Complete Guide for Hassle-Free Accommodation

IRCTC Retiring Room Booking: Your Complete Guide for Comfortable Railway Stay

Indian Railways, one of the largest rail networks in the world, offers not only travel convenience but also lodging solutions at major stations. IRCTC retiring rooms provide travelers with affordable and comfortable accommodation, allowing them to rest between train journeys. Whether you need a short stay during a long layover or a night’s sleep after a late-night arrival, booking a retiring room through IRCTC is a convenient solution.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about IRCTC retiring room booking, including step-by-step instructions, room types, pricing, and cancellation policies.

What are IRCTC Retiring Rooms?

IRCTC retiring rooms are accommodation facilities available at major railway stations across India, designed to provide resting spaces for passengers who have confirmed or RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) train tickets. These rooms are ideal for layovers, early arrivals, or travelers waiting for a connecting train.

Key features include:

• Affordable Rates: Reasonably priced compared to hotels.

• Availability: Located at over 500 major railway stations.

• Variety: Different room types such as single, double, dormitory, and air-conditioned options.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking IRCTC Retiring Rooms

Booking a retiring room is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Log in to IRCTC Account

Visit the official IRCTC website or use the IRCTC Rail Connect mobile app. Log in using your registered IRCTC ID and password.

Step 2: Navigate to the Retiring Room Section

Once logged in, click on the “Retiring Room” option under the “Enquiries” tab or menu.

Step 3: Enter Travel Details

Fill in the required details such as your PNR number, station, and journey date. Only passengers with valid tickets (confirmed or RAC) are eligible to book.

Step 4: Choose Room Type

Select the type of room you want based on availability. The options generally include:

• Single Occupancy

• Double Occupancy

• Dormitory (shared rooms, typically with 4–6 beds)

• AC/Non-AC options

Step 5: Confirm Booking and Payment

After selecting the room, proceed to make the payment. IRCTC offers multiple payment options, including net banking, UPI, debit/credit cards, and the IRCTC e-wallet.

Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive an SMS or email with the booking details.

Step	Description
Step 1	Log in to the IRCTC website or app
Step 2	Select the "Retiring Room" option
Step 3	Enter PNR, station, and journey details
Step 4	Choose room type (single, double, dormitory, AC)
Step 5	Confirm and make payment

IRCTC Retiring Room Charges and Facilities

The charges for retiring rooms vary based on room type, station, and the duration of the stay. On average, the rates are quite economical compared to hotels.

Room Type	Duration	Rate (Approx)
Single Non-AC Room	24 Hours	₹250 - ₹500
Single AC Room	24 Hours	₹400 - ₹800
Double Non-AC Room	24 Hours	₹500 - ₹1,000
Double AC Room	24 Hours	₹800 - ₹1,500
Dormitory (Per Bed)	24 Hours	₹100 - ₹300

Facilities Available in Retiring Rooms

1. Air Conditioning: AC and non-AC rooms are available, depending on the traveler’s preferences.

2. Attached Bathrooms: Most rooms come with clean and well-maintained bathrooms.

3. Basic Furniture: Beds, chairs, and tables are available for comfort.

4. Safety: Rooms are generally secure and located within station premises, making them ideal for solo travelers.

5. Housekeeping: Daily cleaning services are provided at many stations.

Cancellation Policy for Retiring Rooms

If you need to cancel your booking, IRCTC provides a hassle-free cancellation policy:

• Cancellation Up to 48 Hours Before Check-In: A cancellation fee of 20% of the booking amount will be charged.

• Cancellation Between 24 to 48 Hours: 50% of the booking amount will be charged as a cancellation fee.

• Cancellation Less Than 24 Hours Before Check-In: No refund will be provided.

Time Before Check-In	Cancellation Fee
More than 48 hours	20% of booking amount
24–48 hours	50% of booking amount
Less than 24 hours	No refund

Tips for Booking IRCTC Retiring Rooms

1. Book Early: Retiring rooms are limited in number and in high demand, especially at major stations like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. Book as early as possible to secure a room.

2. Check Eligibility: You must have a confirmed or RAC ticket to book a retiring room.

3. Be Aware of Booking Duration: Retiring rooms are generally available in blocks of 12 or 24 hours. Ensure you select the appropriate duration based on your stay requirements.

4. Use IRCTC Wallet for Fast Payments: If you are a frequent traveler, consider using the IRCTC e-wallet for faster and more secure payments.

FAQs About IRCTC Retiring Room Booking

1. Can I book a retiring room without a confirmed ticket?No, only passengers with confirmed or RAC tickets are eligible to book retiring rooms.

2. How far in advance can I book a retiring room?You can book retiring rooms up to 60 days in advance.

3. Are retiring rooms available at all railway stations?Retiring rooms are available at over 500 major railway stations across India, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.

4. What if I need to extend my stay?Extensions are subject to availability. You can inquire at the station or through the IRCTC platform.

5. Can I cancel my retiring room booking?Yes, bookings can be canceled according to IRCTC’s cancellation policy, with a fee depending on the timing of the cancellation.

Conclusion: Book Your IRCTC Retiring Room for a Hassle-Free Stay

IRCTC retiring rooms provide a convenient, secure, and affordable option for travelers looking to rest between journeys. With easy online booking, affordable rates, and basic amenities, these rooms are perfect for short stays at major railway stations. Follow this guide to ensure you get the best out of your stay and make your travel experience even more comfortable.