IRCTC Food Order in Train: How to Order Meals Online 2026

How to Order Food on IRCTC (food.irctc.co.in)

Go to food.irctc.co.in. Enter your 10-digit PNR number. Select the station at which you want delivery (choose a station with enough halting time — at least 5–10 minutes). Browse restaurants available at that station. Add items to cart. Choose payment method (UPI, card, or net banking). Confirm the order. Your food is delivered to your seat/berth at the specified station.

How to Order via IRCTC Rail Connect App

Open the IRCTC Rail Connect app. Tap 'E-Catering'. Enter PNR. The app shows your upcoming stations with available restaurants. Select your delivery station and restaurant. Add items, review cart, and pay. Order confirmation is sent by SMS.

Which Trains and Stations Have E-Catering?

IRCTC e-catering is available on most long-distance trains (Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Express, Superfast) at major stations — approximately 400+ stations across India. Not all stations and trains are covered. The app shows only available options for your specific PNR, so you only see what is actually deliverable on your journey.

Pantry Car vs E-Catering: Key Differences

Pantry Car: food served by on-board staff throughout the journey — hot meals, tea, snacks. Available on most long-distance trains. E-Catering: restaurant food from city restaurants delivered at specific stations — better quality and more variety than pantry. Use both — pantry for quick snacks and tea, e-catering for proper meals from good restaurants.

Common Questions

How do I order food on a running train?

Go to food.irctc.co.in, enter your PNR, select your upcoming delivery station, choose a restaurant, and pay online. Food is delivered to your seat at the specified station. Order at least 2 hours before your selected delivery station.

Can I order food without IRCTC login for e-catering?

Yes — food.irctc.co.in allows food ordering with just your PNR number, without logging in to your IRCTC account. Payment is made directly on the food ordering page.

How far in advance should I order e-catering food?

Order at least 2 hours before your delivery station for best results. For popular restaurants or large orders, order 3–4 hours in advance.

What if my delivery is missed?

If the food is not delivered at your station (which is rare), contact IRCTC e-catering helpline at 1800-103-2222. Refunds are processed for undelivered orders. Track your order status on food.irctc.co.in with your PNR.

Is pantry car available on all trains?

No — Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains have pantry cars. Most long-distance Express trains also have pantry. Vande Bharat includes catering in the fare. Short-distance and Jan Shatabdi trains may not have pantry.

What is the IRCTC e-catering refund policy?

If the order is not delivered, a full refund is processed within 3–7 business days. Partial orders (some items missing) are partially refunded. Cancellation before delivery: refund depends on order stage.

Can I order food at every station?

Only at stations listed for your PNR on food.irctc.co.in. The system shows only stations with partner restaurants and sufficient halting time. Major stations (Nagpur, Bhopal, Vijayawada, etc.) have the most options.

Is IRCTC e-catering food safe to eat on train?

IRCTC e-catering partners are licensed restaurants audited by IRCTC. Food is packed hygienically and delivered sealed. It is generally safer and of better quality than informal platform vendors.

Useful Links

Check your ticket directly, track train running status, or read related railway guides.