Diwali train ticket booking starts tomorrow: Railways advises passengers to plan early

The train ticket booking process for Diwali 2026 will commence on September 6. Diwali is expected to fall on November 8 this year. According to Indian Railways reservation guidelines, the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) opens 60 days prior to the journey date, excluding the travel date itself. The ticket booking process is scheduled to begin at 8 AM sharp.

Indian Railways has emphasized the importance of advance booking, stating that it aids in better travel planning and ensures a smoother journey. Passengers are advised to book their tickets ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles. The statement also highlights that some of the most sought-after routes during festive season include Delhi-Patna, Patna-Ahmedabad, Bengaluru-Patna, and others.

Additionally, the Railways has introduced several special trains for Diwali 2026 to cater to the increased demand during the festive period. These include festival specials like Mumbai Central–Katihar, Kanpur Central–Guwahati, and others, with varying numbers of additional trips and return journeys. The composition of these special trains usually comprises 22 coaches to enhance passenger comfort.