Train Ticket Cancellation Charges and Refund: All You Need to Know

Booking a train ticket is simple. But what if your plans change? Whether it's a sudden emergency, a change in itinerary, or just a missed opportunity, knowing train ticket cancellation charges and refund rules can save you money—and headaches.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about canceling train tickets in India: charges, refund timelines, and how to avoid penalties. Let’s get started!

Types of Train Tickets and Their Cancellation Rules

Indian Railways primarily offers two types of train tickets:

E-tickets (booked online through IRCTC or other apps)

Counter tickets (booked at railway stations)

The cancellation process and charges differ depending on the type of ticket, class, and timing of cancellation.

Cancellation Charges for E-Tickets (Confirmed)

Here’s a quick snapshot of cancellation charges for confirmed e-tickets:

Class of Travel If Cancelled ≥ 48 hrs before departure Between 48–12 hrs Between 12–4 hrs

Rs 240 + GST for a ticket booked for AC First Class and Executive Class

Rs 200 + GST for ticket booked for AC 2 Tier and First Class,

Rs 180 + GST for a ticket booked for AC 3 Tier/ AC 3 Economy, and AC Chair car

Rs 120 for a ticket booked for a Sleeper Class

Rs 60 for a ticket booked for Second Class.Important Notes:

No refund is given if the ticket is not cancelled at least 4 hours before scheduled departure.

The charges are per passenger.

GST is non-refundable.

Cancellation of RAC or Waitlisted Tickets

RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) and Waitlisted e-tickets can be cancelled up to 30 minutes before departure.

Full refund is given after deduction of a nominal fee of ₹60 per passenger.

If you don't cancel a waitlisted ticket and the train departs, no refund is issued.

Cancellation of Counter Tickets

To cancel a counter ticket:

Visit a railway station OR

Use the IRCTC website/app (if linked with your mobile number).

Refund Timelines:

Confirmed counter tickets must be cancelled at least 4 hours before departure.

RAC/Waitlisted counter tickets can be cancelled up to 30 minutes before departure.

Refunds are usually processed within 7 business days, but cash refunds at the counter are immediate.

How to Cancel a Train Ticket Online (IRCTC)

Log in to IRCTC website or mobile app.

Go to “My Bookings”.

Select the ticket you want to cancel.

Click “Cancel Ticket” and confirm.

Refund amount (if eligible) will be credited to your account within 5–7 working days.

Tatkal Ticket Cancellation and Refund

Tatkal bookings are for last-minute travel. But what happens if you cancel?

Confirmed Tatkal tickets: NO refund is given.

Waitlisted Tatkal tickets: Refund is allowed after deduction of ₹60 if cancelled before train departure.

Refund Timeline

E-tickets: Refund within 5–7 working days to your original payment method.

Counter tickets: Refund is either given in cash immediately or credited to bank account if cancelled online.

Useful Tips to Avoid Cancellation Hassles

Cancel early to get maximum refund.

Check PNR status regularly—waitlisted tickets that don’t get confirmed will be automatically cancelled if not used.

Use IRCTC app for easy cancellations.

Be aware of train delays or rescheduling—you might be eligible for a full refund if the delay exceeds 3 hours and you choose not to travel.

Conclusion

Understanding train ticket cancellation charges and refund rules can help you avoid losing money unnecessarily. Whether you're booking a sleeper class ticket or a premium AC coach, the key is to know the rules, cancel early when needed, and keep your PNR handy