How to Buy a Train Ticket in India

Nearly everywhere in India is overwhelming, but the train station can be especially so. The lines are typically unreasonably long and if you don’t know a few basic things about the culture, you could literally be standing in them forever.

Fill out the ticket form.

There is usually a stack of forms around the counter, but you may have to ask the attendant for one before getting in line. To avoid getting denied and being sent to the back of the line, it’s best to know the name of the train you’re getting a ticket for ahead of time and be sure to fill out the form completely.

Get in line.

Easier said than done in some cities. There is a general approval of pushing and cutting so you’ve just got to get in there. Smile, don’t get upset and hold your ground or else a little old lady will have no problem sliding right in front of you without batting an eye.

Double check times and transfers with the attendant.

Take advantage of their ability to speak English, as most of them are quite fluent, to double check departure times and whether there are any transfers along the way. Also, some destinations have more than one station, so be sure to ask where exactly to disembark.