Tatkal Alert: Sept 25 Travel Booking Schedule & Mandatory Rules!
If you are planning to travel on September 25, 2026, you need to act fast! Indian Railways has officially released the Tatkal booking schedule, and there are several critical authentication protocols you must follow to secure your seats.
When to Book: Mark Your Calendars
To grab a Tatkal ticket for journeys on September 25, the booking window opens one day prior, on September 24, 2026. To ensure you don't miss out, keep a close watch on the clock based on your preferred travel class:
- AC Classes: The booking window opens at 10:00 AM IST.
- Sleeper and Non-AC Classes: The booking window opens at 11:00 AM IST.
New Mandatory Authentication Requirements
The reservation process has become more stringent to ensure security. Passengers must be aware of the following requirements that have been in place since July 2025:
- Aadhaar-Authenticated Accounts: All Tatkal bookings must be made through an IRCTC account that has been authenticated via Aadhaar.
- OTP Verification: A mandatory One-Time Password (OTP) will be sent to the mobile number registered with your Aadhaar to complete the booking process.
Strict Guidelines and Policies
Indian Railways maintains a very strict policy regarding Tatkal reservations. Please keep these rules in mind before attempting to book:
- No Concessions: There are no concessions permitted for any Tatkal bookings.
- Passenger Limit: A maximum of four tickets can be reserved per PNR.
- Refund Policy: Be advised that confirmed Tatkal tickets typically do not qualify for a refund upon cancellation, unless there are specific operational exceptions such as significant train delays.