IRCTC E-Catering: How to Order Food on Trains in 2024
Train journeys in India are not just about travel—they’re an experience. Whether you're on a long-distance trip or a short ride, enjoying a good meal can make your journey more pleasant. Thanks to IRCTC E-Catering, passengers can now order food from a wide variety of restaurants and have it delivered directly to their seat on the train. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to use IRCTC's E-Catering service, explore menu options, and answer common questions to ensure you have a seamless dining experience on the go.
What is IRCTC E-Catering?
IRCTC E-Catering is a service launched by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation that allows passengers to order food from restaurants and have it delivered directly to their train berth. You no longer have to rely on pantry car food or station vendors. Through the E-Catering service, you can choose from a wide range of meals—from Indian thalis and biryani to pizzas and burgers.
IRCTC E-Catering partners with trusted local and national restaurants, ensuring high-quality, hygienic meals.
Benefits of Using IRCTC E-Catering
Here are the key benefits of using IRCTC's E-Catering service:
Variety of Food: Choose from multiple cuisines like Indian, Chinese, continental, fast food, and regional delicacies.
Convenience: Get fresh food delivered right to your seat without having to leave the train.
Customization: Select your preferred meals from a wide range of menu options.
Hygienic Meals: All meals are prepared in hygienic environments by authorized vendors.
How to Order Food Using IRCTC E-Catering
Ordering food via IRCTC E-Catering is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you can place your order effortlessly:
Step 1: Visit the IRCTC E-Catering Website or Download the App
You can place your food order either through:
The IRCTC E-Catering Website
The IRCTC E-Catering App, available on Android and iOS.
Step 2: Enter Your PNR Number
To start, you’ll need to enter your PNR number. This ensures that IRCTC can track your journey, train number, and upcoming stations for food delivery.
Step 3: Choose a Restaurant
Once you enter your PNR, the system will show a list of restaurants and food vendors available at your upcoming stations. You can filter the choices based on the cuisine you prefer.
Step 4: Select Your Meals
Browse the menu and select your preferred dishes. Options typically include:
Indian thalis (vegetarian and non-vegetarian)
Biryani
Pizzas and burgers
Snacks and beverages
Regional cuisines like South Indian, North Indian, Gujarati, etc.
Step 5: Place Your Order
After selecting your food, review your cart and proceed to the checkout. You can pay using several payment methods:
Cash on Delivery (COD)
Net Banking
Debit/Credit Cards
UPI and Wallets
Step 6: Food Delivery to Your Seat
Once your order is confirmed, your meal will be prepared and delivered to your seat at the designated station. The delivery person will locate your train and seat based on your PNR information.
IRCTC E-Catering Menu Options: What Can You Order?
IRCTC E-Catering offers a variety of food options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Here's a table outlining popular meal choices:
Meal Type | Cuisine Options | Description |
Thali (Veg/Non-Veg) | Indian (North/South) | A complete meal with rice, roti, sabzi, and curry |
Biryani | Hyderabadi, Kolkata | Flavorful rice dish with chicken, mutton, or veggies |
Snacks | Fast Food, Indian | Sandwiches, samosas, kachoris, etc. |
Pizzas & Burgers | Continental, Fast Food | Italian-style pizzas, burgers, and fries |
Regional Delicacies | Gujarati, Bengali, etc. | Regional specialties like dhokla, fish curry, etc. |
Desserts | Indian, Western | Sweets like gulab jamun, ice cream, pastries |
Beverages | Tea, Coffee, Juices | Hot and cold beverages, soft drinks |
With such a diverse menu, passengers can enjoy restaurant-quality food on their train journeys.
List of Major Stations Offering IRCTC E-Catering
While IRCTC E-Catering services are expanding, here are some of the major railway stations where you can avail of food delivery:
City/Station Name | Station Code | E-Catering Availability |
New Delhi | NDLS | Yes |
Mumbai CST | CSTM | Yes |
Chennai Central | MAS | Yes |
Kolkata Howrah | HWH | Yes |
Bengaluru City | SBC | Yes |
Hyderabad | HYB | Yes |
Pune Junction | PUNE | Yes |
Ahmedabad | ADI | Yes |
These are just a few examples. E-Catering is available at hundreds of railway stations across India, with more being added regularly.
FAQs on IRCTC E-Catering
1. How far in advance should I order food via IRCTC E-Catering?
It’s recommended to place your order at least 2 hours before reaching the station where the food is to be delivered. This allows the restaurant to prepare and deliver your meal on time.
2. Can I cancel my IRCTC E-Catering order?
Yes, you can cancel your order through the IRCTC E-Catering website or app, provided it is canceled before the meal preparation begins. Refunds will be processed according to the cancellation policy.
3. Is there a minimum order amount?
Some restaurants may have a minimum order value for delivery, typically ranging between ₹100-₹200, depending on the station and vendor.
4. How do I know if E-Catering is available for my train?
After entering your PNR number, the system will automatically show you whether E-Catering is available for your train and upcoming stations.
5. What payment methods are accepted for IRCTC E-Catering?
You can pay using Cash on Delivery (COD), debit/credit cards, UPI, or net banking. COD is one of the most popular options for train passengers.
Tips for Using IRCTC E-Catering Service
Order Early: For the best service and food options, order at least 2 hours before reaching your delivery station.
Check Reviews: When selecting a restaurant, check the ratings and reviews provided by previous customers for better quality assurance.
Verify Delivery Station: Ensure that your selected station matches your train's stopping points to avoid any missed deliveries.
Conclusion
IRCTC E-Catering has revolutionized the way travelers enjoy food on trains, providing a wide range of meal choices delivered right to your seat. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Indian cuisine, fast food, or regional delicacies, the convenience and variety offered by IRCTC E-Catering ensure that you won’t have to compromise on taste or quality during your journey.
So, the next time you're traveling by train, make your journey more enjoyable by ordering from the IRCTC E-Catering service and treat yourself to a delicious, hassle-free meal!
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