How to Get Lower Berth in Train: Do you get Upper Berth even after choosing Lower Berth on IRCTC? Is there any easy way to get a lower berth in a train? Can booking tickets early increase your chances? Know the rules of Indian Railways, what things should be kept in mind while booking tickets on IRCTC so that you can get a lower berth in the train?
How to Increase Chances of Getting Lower Berth in Train: If any seat is in highest demand during travel in Indian Railways, it is the lower berth. Lower berths are considered very convenient especially for elderly passengers, pregnant women, people with health issues and those traveling long distances. But merely choosing Lower Berth Preference while booking tickets does not guarantee getting a lower berth. In such a situation, the question arises that how can the chances of getting a lower berth in the train be increased? Know what things to keep in mind while booking tickets on IRCTC can increase the chances of getting a lower berth in the train.
While booking tickets on IRCTC, just choosing your preference is not enough.
While booking tickets on IRCTC, passengers get the option to choose berth preference. Here you can opt for Lower Berth, but Railways does seat allotment on the basis of availability. Therefore, many times despite choosing preference, one gets middle or upper berth.
Senior citizens get the benefit of lower berth quota
As per Railway rules, senior citizens are given priority in lower berth allotment. Generally men aged 60 years or above and women aged 58 years or above can avail the benefit of lower berth quota as per availability. However, this facility is applicable only if seats are available.
Booking tickets early can increase your chances of getting a lower berth.
The easiest way to get a lower berth is to book tickets well in time. The number of lower berths in the train is limited. As seats get filled, the chances of a lower berth becoming available become less. Therefore, it is better to book tickets as soon as the travel plans are made.
Book with family on same PNR
If family members are traveling together then try to book everyone’s ticket on the same PNR. Railways often try to give seats to passengers of the same group close to each other. In such cases the chances of getting a lower berth may increase slightly.
There is an option even after the chart is made
If a lower berth is not available after ticket confirmation, a polite request can be made to the TTE during the journey. The seat can be changed if there is consent and seat availability from another passenger. However, this entirely depends on availability and circumstances.
If you want a lower berth in the train then keep this in mind while booking the ticket.
If lower berth is required, enter correct age and details at the time of ticket booking, select Lower Berth Preference and book the ticket as soon as possible. Keep in mind that Railways tries to offer lower berths, but the final allotment depends on the availability of seats and reservation system. That is, there is no 100% sure way of getting a lower berth in a train, but by adopting the right strategy, your chances can definitely be increased. Timely ticket booking, selection of the right class and knowledge of railway rules can prove to be very helpful for the passengers.