Foreign Tourist Quota (FTQ) in Indian Railways: How to Book 2026

Quick Answer

Indian Railways reserves a small quota of berths for foreign tourists (Foreign Tourist Quota / FTQ) on major trains. Foreign tourists can book using foreign currency or USD-equivalent at designated booking counters at major stations or online via IRCTC (requires Indian mobile number verification).

Railway Guide Updated 2026-06-07 Free tools linked below

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What Is Foreign Tourist Quota?

FTQ (Foreign Tourist Quota) is a small block of berths on major trains (Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Mail/Express) reserved for foreign nationals. It allows foreign tourists to get confirmed seats even when regular quota is full. The quota is available at International Tourist Bureaus (ITBs) at major stations.

How to Book Using FTQ

At major stations (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore) at the International Tourist Bureau (ITB) office, usually inside the main station. Payment accepted: US Dollars (USD), Pound Sterling (GBP), Euro (EUR), or Indian Rupees (from a bank-issued foreign exchange encashment certificate). Online booking: Create an IRCTC account with an Indian mobile number and book the FTQ quota online — payment by international credit card.

Documents Required

Passport and valid Indian visa. Foreign exchange encashment certificate if paying in Indian rupees. Return air ticket (sometimes requested at ITB counters).

Indrail Pass: Alternative for Long Trips

For tourists planning multiple train journeys over 7–30 days, the Indrail Pass allows unlimited travel on Indian Railways for a fixed price in USD. Available at ITB counters and some overseas IRCTC agents.

Common Questions

Can foreign tourists book train tickets online in India?

Yes — on IRCTC with an Indian mobile number or at International Tourist Bureaus at major stations.

What is the Foreign Tourist Quota?

A reserved block of berths on major trains for foreign nationals, bookable in foreign currency or Indian rupees.

Can I pay in USD for Indian train tickets?

Yes — at International Tourist Bureaus (ITBs) at major railway stations.

Which stations have International Tourist Bureaus?

New Delhi (NDLS), Mumbai CSMT, Howrah (Kolkata), Chennai Central, Bangalore City — and a few other major stations.

Useful Links

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

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