IRCTC Group Booking: How to Book for 10+ Passengers in 2026
For groups up to 6 passengers, regular IRCTC booking handles multiple passengers on one PNR. For groups of 10–400 passengers, Indian Railways offers a dedicated 'Group Booking' quota — applied through the Station Manager, not IRCTC online.
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Regular Booking: Up to 6 Passengers Per PNR
IRCTC allows up to 6 passengers on a single PNR. For groups of 7–12, book multiple PNRs of 6 passengers each. Each PNR gets separate seats but all seats are on the same train. There is no group discount for regular bookings.
Formal Group Booking Quota (10–400 Passengers)
For groups of 10 or more, Indian Railways reserves a Group Booking quota on each train. To access it: Contact the Station Superintendent/Station Manager at the nearest major railway station. Submit a formal application with: group size, travel date, train number, class, and purpose of travel. Application must be submitted at least 60 days before travel (recommended 90 days). A deposit is required upfront; balance paid before ticket issuance.
Group Booking Quota Benefits
Seats together in the same coach (usually). Priority over general waitlist. 10% concession on base fare for groups of 500+ (pilgrimage/religious groups get higher concessions). Annual Pass Groups (school, college, scouts) get additional discounts.
School/Educational Group Concession
Schools and colleges booking for excursions get 25–50% concession on base fare in SL and 3AC classes. Requires a formal application with school letter head and railway approval. Book at least 60 days in advance.
Common Questions
How many passengers can be on one IRCTC PNR?
Up to 6 passengers on one PNR through the regular IRCTC website.
Is there a group booking option on IRCTC website?
No — formal group booking (10+ passengers) is done through the Station Manager, not the IRCTC website. The website handles up to 6 per PNR.
Is there a discount for group train travel in India?
Not on regular bookings. Formal group quota (500+ passengers) may get a 10% concession. Schools and colleges get higher concessions with prior approval.
How early should I apply for group booking?
At least 60 days before travel. 90 days is recommended for large groups or popular trains.
Useful Links
Check your ticket directly, track train running status, or read related railway guides.
Trust note
PNR Alert is an independent railway utility and guide platform. Use these pages for explanation and planning, but verify time-sensitive travel details with official railway sources before making final travel decisions.