What is the Howrah railway station code and which zone is it in?

Howrah Junction is coded HWH and is operated mainly by Eastern Railway, with some long-distance trains from the newer complex run by South Eastern Railway. It stands on the west bank of the Hooghly river, opposite central Kolkata. Do not confuse it with Sealdah (SDAH), which is a separate Kolkata station on the other side.

How many platforms does Howrah station have?

Sources differ. Wikipedia lists 24 platforms and some guides say 23, with Platform 16 reportedly not in use, so roughly 22 are operational. They are split between an old complex (low numbers) and a newer complex (higher numbers). Check your platform on the display boards or NTES, because numbers change at short notice.

What are the old and new complexes at Howrah?

Howrah has an old complex with the lower-numbered platforms and a newer complex with the higher numbers, linked by subways and overbridges. Guides say the old complex mainly handles Eastern Railway trains and the new complex handles many South Eastern Railway long-distance trains. Allow 10 to 15 minutes to walk between them at busy times.

Is there a metro at Howrah railway station?

Yes. Howrah metro station is on Kolkata Metro's Green Line and was opened in March 2024. It is built beneath the railway station, is reported to be about 34 m deep, and runs under the Hooghly river towards Mahakaran. A subway links it to the old and new rail complexes.

Are retiring rooms available at Howrah station?

Eastern Railway suspended retiring room and dormitory services at Howrah on 28 February 2025 for renovation, until further notice. We could not confirm whether they have reopened, so check IRCTC or the station before you rely on them. An IRCTC lounge with air-conditioned rooms was mentioned as an alternative at the time.

Is there a cloakroom at Howrah station?

Yes, the station has a cloakroom, and one guide places it on Platform 1. Opening hours and charges are revised from time to time, so confirm them at the counter. Carry a valid ticket and photo ID, keep your receipt safe, and expect bags to be checked before they are accepted.

What is the difference between Howrah and Sealdah stations?

Howrah (HWH) is on the west bank of the Hooghly and serves many long-distance trains, while Sealdah (SDAH) is on the Kolkata side and serves trains such as the Sealdah Rajdhani and others heading north and east. Always check the boarding station on your ticket before you leave for the station.

Do Delhi Rajdhani trains leave from Howrah?

Yes, some do. Rajdhani Express services 12301 and 12305 run from Howrah to New Delhi, while the Rajdhani 12313 runs from Sealdah. Journey times in public listings range from about 17 hours to 20 hours depending on the train. Confirm the origin station and timings on IRCTC before you book.

Which hotels are near Howrah railway station?

Booking sites list The Ashoka Hotel Howrah, The Urban Deo GH and Hotel O Howrah Railway Station within roughly a kilometre of the station. Polo Floatel, Collection O Dalhousie Square and The LaLiT Great Eastern lie across the river at a little under two kilometres. Check current rates and recent reviews.

How far is the Howrah Bridge from the station?

The Howrah Bridge is right beside the station, by the main entrance, and is a short walk. It links Howrah with central Kolkata and is especially photogenic when lit at night. Traffic over the bridge is heavy at peak hours, so consider the metro or a ferry for crossing the river.

Is Howrah station being redeveloped?

A redevelopment is being planned. In October 2026 Eastern Railway invited bids for a feasibility study that would look at a multi-storey complex, a skywalk and improved subways. Platform extension work for longer trains has also been reported. Expect changes in the coming years and check for announcements before big trips.

What is the New Delhi railway station code and which zone is it in?

New Delhi railway station is coded NDLS. It sits in the Delhi division of Northern Railway and is one of the busiest stations in the country. Do not confuse it with Old Delhi (code DLI), Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) or Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT), which are separate stations.

How many platforms does New Delhi railway station have?

NDLS has 16 platforms. Platform 1 is on the Paharganj side and Platform 16 is on the Ajmeri Gate side. Platform numbers for a particular train can change at short notice, so confirm yours on the display boards or the NTES app before you walk to the platform.

Which metro station is closest to New Delhi railway station?

The New Delhi metro station is directly connected to the railway station and is served by the Yellow Line and the Airport Express Line. A skywalk links the Ajmeri Gate side of the station to the metro, so allow extra time if you are carrying heavy luggage.

How do I get from New Delhi railway station to Delhi airport?

The Airport Express Line runs from New Delhi metro station to the IGI Airport station at Terminal 3 in roughly 20 minutes. Fares and timings change, so check the Delhi Metro site. Terminal 1 is served by a different metro station on the Magenta Line, so use the DMRC route planner for that terminal.

Is there a retiring room at New Delhi railway station?

Yes. Retiring rooms and dormitory beds are available for passengers holding a valid train ticket, and you can book through IRCTC or at the station subject to availability. Eligibility rules, rates and check-in slots change, so read the current IRCTC terms and carry a valid photo ID.

Is there a cloakroom at New Delhi railway station?

Yes, the station has a cloakroom where you can leave luggage while you sightsee. Some travel guides quote about 15 rupees for the first 24 hours, but rates are revised, so confirm at the counter. Keep your receipt and carry ID. Bags are usually scanned or checked before they are accepted.

Which side of New Delhi railway station should I use for Connaught Place and the metro?

Use the Ajmeri Gate side, which has the skywalk to the metro station and is better for central Delhi and Connaught Place. The Paharganj side, near Platform 1, is the one to choose for the Main Bazaar area and its budget hotels and guesthouses.

Do all Rajdhani trains leave from New Delhi railway station?

No. Services such as the Mumbai Tejas Rajdhani, Howrah Rajdhani and Sealdah Rajdhani use NDLS, but several south-bound Rajdhani trains, including those to Chennai, Bengaluru and Secunderabad, start at Hazrat Nizamuddin. Always check the boarding station printed on your ticket.

Are there hotels close to New Delhi railway station?

Yes. The Paharganj side has many hotels within a few minutes' walk, from budget guesthouses to mid-range properties, and there is a Ginger hotel connected to the station area. Upscale hotels such as The Imperial and The LaLiT are a short taxi or metro ride away near Connaught Place.

Is New Delhi railway station safe at night?

The station has CCTV and is policed by the Railway Protection Force, Government Railway Police and Delhi Police, but it is crowded and busy at all hours. Keep valuables close, use only official prepaid taxi booths and licensed porters, and ignore strangers who claim your train or the station is closed.

What is the station code of Mumbai CSMT?

The station code commonly used for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is CSMT. Some older railway references and historical records use CSTM for the former Mumbai CST designation. Use the code shown on your current ticket and train enquiry.

How many platforms does Mumbai CSMT have?

Station directories list 18 platforms at Mumbai CSMT. Redevelopment work can temporarily affect which platforms are available, so check your train's current platform and revised boarding or termination station before travelling.

Which metro station serves Mumbai CSMT?

CSMT Metro on Mumbai Metro Line 3, also called the Aqua Line, serves the station area. Check the current metro operating information and the walking route between the metro entrance and your railway platform.

How do I book a retiring room at Mumbai CSMT?

Start at the official IRCTC Retiring Room website, enter your journey details and check whether accommodation at CSMT is available for your travel date. Room types, eligibility, duration and availability depend on the applicable rules.

Is there a cloakroom at Mumbai CSMT?

Cloakroom or luggage-storage availability and acceptance rules should be confirmed with station staff on arrival. Ask about identification, permitted luggage, opening hours and collection requirements before leaving your bags.

How do I reach Mumbai CSMT from the airport?

You can travel by app cab or taxi, or use a combination of airport transport, Mumbai Metro Line 3 and other public transport. The best route depends on your terminal, traffic, luggage and time of day.

Which trains run from Mumbai CSMT?

CSMT serves suburban trains and long-distance services, including trains towards Pune, Goa, Shirdi, Howrah, Nanded and other destinations. Check the current official train enquiry for service days, timings, availability and platforms.

Which trains are affected by CSMT redevelopment in 2026?

Reports announced a traffic and power block from 1 October to 15 December 2026 involving platforms 14 and 15. Eight long-distance services were reported as terminating at Dadar or Thane instead of CSMT during the block. Verify your specific train's latest arrangements.

Which hotels are near Mumbai CSMT?

Hotel options are available in the Fort, CST and Colaba areas, including City Hotel, Hotel Manama and Residency Hotel Fort. Check the current location, guest facilities, check-in policy, rates and cancellation terms directly before booking.

What tourist places can I visit near Mumbai CSMT?

Nearby South Mumbai sightseeing options include the station's own heritage façade, Crawford Market, Flora Fountain, the Kala Ghoda district, Marine Drive and the Gateway of India. Allow for traffic and entry queues, and choose a route suited to your available time.

Is Mumbai CSMT the same as Mumbai Central?

No. Mumbai CSMT and Mumbai Central are separate railway stations. Mumbai CSMT is in South Mumbai and uses the code CSMT, while Mumbai Central uses MMCT. Always verify the station printed on your ticket before travelling.

Can international travellers book Indian train tickets?

International visitors should check the current IRCTC registration and booking rules for foreign users, accepted payment methods and any applicable foreign-tourist quota. Carry the passport and visa or other identification required for the journey.

What is the station code for Ahmedabad Railway Station?

The station code for Ahmedabad Junction is ADI. Enter ADI when searching for trains to or from the main Ahmedabad Junction station, and confirm the station name on your ticket.

Is Ahmedabad Junction the same as Kalupur Railway Station?

Yes. Ahmedabad Junction is commonly called Kalupur Railway Station because it is located in the Kalupur area. Ahmedabad also has other stations, including Sabarmati, Maninagar and Asarva, so check the station code on your ticket.

How many platforms does Ahmedabad Junction have?

Published sources differ on the platform count, and some platforms may be affected by redevelopment. Check the current station display, railway announcements and your train's live information instead of relying on an old platform number.

Is Ahmedabad Metro connected to Ahmedabad Junction?

Kalupur Metro Station provides a metro connection at the railway station area. Check the official Ahmedabad Metro route planner for the current operating route, station exits and service information before travelling.

How can I book a retiring room at Ahmedabad Junction?

Visit IRCTC Tourism, open the Retiring Rooms section and enter your journey details or PNR as requested. Select an available room or dormitory and review the current rules and charges before paying. Availability is not guaranteed.

Does Ahmedabad Junction have an executive lounge?

IRCTC Tourism has published an Ahmedabad Executive Lounge information page identifying a lounge on Platform 1. Because access arrangements and operating details can change, confirm that it is currently available and check booking conditions before relying on it.

Can I store luggage at Ahmedabad Junction?

Third-party station guides report cloakroom facilities, but the current counter location, hours, accepted items and charges should be confirmed at the station. Carry identification and keep valuables, passports, medicines and travel documents with you.

How far is Ahmedabad Airport from the railway station?

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is the main airport serving Ahmedabad. The road distance and journey time from Ahmedabad Junction vary with the route and traffic. Check a live map and allow extra time for airport check-in.

How do I check the platform for my train at Ahmedabad Junction?

Check the station's electronic departure boards and announcements, and confirm your train through official live-status services. Platform assignments can change, so recheck after entering the station and before boarding.

Which tourist places can I visit near Ahmedabad Junction?

Possible city visits include the historic walled city, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Sabarmati Riverfront, Sabarmati Ashram and Kankaria Lake. Travel time depends on traffic and opening hours. For a short connection, choose one nearby area rather than trying to see the whole city.

Which other railway stations serve Ahmedabad?

Ahmedabad is served by several stations, including Sabarmati, Maninagar, Asarva, Chandlodiya and Gandhinagar Capital. These stations are not interchangeable. Check the exact station name and code printed on your ticket before leaving for the station.

How can international travellers book Indian train tickets?

Start with the official IRCTC booking service and check the current registration and payment requirements for overseas users. Keep your passport details available, use a payment method accepted by the service and verify the ticket's station, passenger details and booking status.

What is IRCTC eWallet?

IRCTC eWallet is a prepaid wallet linked to your IRCTC account. You add money in advance and use the balance to pay for train tickets booked on IRCTC, so checkout skips the bank payment page. The balance can only be spent on IRCTC train tickets.

How much does IRCTC eWallet registration cost?

Recent guides and IRCTC's published terms list a one-time registration fee of about Rs 50 plus GST, which is non-refundable. Older guides, including earlier versions of this one, quoted Rs 250. The fee shown on the IRCTC registration page when you sign up is the one that applies to you.

What is the IRCTC eWallet deposit limit?

The minimum deposit is Rs 100 and the maximum balance you can hold is Rs 10,000, according to IRCTC's terms and recent guides. IRCTC can change limits, so check the deposit page.

Is there a charge each time I book with IRCTC eWallet?

IRCTC's terms list a charge of Rs 10 plus tax per eWallet transaction. This is separate from the normal IRCTC convenience fee on the ticket. Check the fare breakup on the payment page for the exact amount.

Can I use IRCTC eWallet for Tatkal booking?

Yes. Recent guides confirm the wallet can pay for general, Tatkal and Premium Tatkal tickets. It only replaces the payment step. Online Tatkal still needs an Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC account, and your Tatkal speed also depends on logging in early and using the master list.

Does IRCTC eWallet really make Tatkal booking faster?

It can save a few seconds at the payment step because there is no bank redirect, card entry or bank OTP. The advantage over a well-set-up UPI app is smaller than it used to be, but a prepaid wallet also removes the risk of a slow or failing bank gateway at peak time.

My IRCTC: Your Guide to IRCTC and Indian Railways

Plain-language help with IRCTC login, ticket booking, Tatkal, PNR status, refunds and railway station guides.

My IRCTC is an independent guide for people who travel by Indian Railways. Here you will find step-by-step help with IRCTC login and registration, ticket booking, Tatkal, PNR status, cancellations and refunds, plus practical guides to major railway stations such as New Delhi and Ahmedabad. Whether you are a first-time traveller, a regular commuter or a visitor from abroad, each guide explains the steps, flags what changes often and points you to the official IRCTC website for the final word.

Independent guide. Not affiliated with IRCTC or Indian Railways. To book, use the official IRCTC website.

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Howrah Railway Station Guide: Platforms, Hotels AndTravel Tips

Last updated: 29 October 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with IRCTC or Indian Railways.

Howrah railway station (Howrah Junction, code HWH) is the main terminus of Kolkata on the west bank of the Hooghly river, run mainly by Eastern Railway. It has roughly 23 platforms split between an old and a new complex, one of the highest platform counts in India. It connects to the Kolkata Metro Green Line, a ferry ghat and the Howrah Bridge. It is also searched as Howrah Jn, Howrah station and Howrah Terminal.

Best tip: know your complex. Walking between the old and new platforms can take 10 to 15 minutes at busy times, so confirm your platform before you head in.

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New Delhi Railway Station Guide: Hotels, Trains, Tips

Last updated: 29 October 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with IRCTC or Indian Railways.

New Delhi railway station (NDLS) is the main railway station of Delhi, in Northern Railway's Delhi division, just north of Connaught Place. It has 16 platforms, two entrances (Paharganj on the Platform 1 side and Ajmeri Gate on the Platform 16 side) and a direct link to the Delhi Metro Yellow Line and Airport Express, which reaches the airport's Terminal 3 in roughly 20 minutes. It is also searched as New Delhi station, NDLS and, by mistake, "Delhi Junction" (that is Old Delhi).

Best tip: check the boarding station on your ticket first. Delhi has several major stations, and many south-bound Rajdhani trains leave from Hazrat Nizamuddin, not NDLS.

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Mumbai CSMT Station: Facilities & Travel Guide

Last updated: 29 October 2026. Independent guide, not affiliated with IRCTC or Indian Railways.

Mumbai CSMT railway station, officially Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, is a major Central Railway terminus in South Mumbai, Maharashtra, known for its striking Victorian Gothic architecture, suburban services and long-distance trains. Its commonly searched names include Mumbai CST, CSTM and the former Victoria Terminus. Station directories list 18 platforms, while Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) provides a metro connection nearby; Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is the principal airport serving the city. The most useful tip for travel in late 2026 is to check your train's current terminating station and platform because redevelopment blocks may change your journey.

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Ahmedabad Railway Station: Metro, Hotels & Travel Tips

Last updated: 27 October 2026. Independent guide, not affiliated with IRCTC or Indian Railways.

Ahmedabad Railway Station (ADI), officially listed as Ahmedabad Junction, is the main railway station in the Kalupur area of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, under Western Railway. The station is a major connection for journeys across Gujarat and to cities throughout India. Kalupur Metro Station provides a metro connection in the railway station area, while Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is the city's main airport. The most useful tip is to confirm your train's station code, platform and live status before leaving for the station.

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IRCTC eWallet Registration, Charges & Tatkal Use (2026)

Quick answer: IRCTC eWallet is a prepaid wallet inside your IRCTC account. You register once with PAN or Aadhaar, add money (minimum ₹100, maximum balance ₹10,000), and then pay for train tickets with your wallet and a transaction password. There is no bank page, card form or bank OTP at checkout, which is why people use it to pay faster during Tatkal.

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9 Best IRCTC Alternatives in 2026 (Train Booking Apps Compared)

Quick answer: The best IRCTC alternatives in 2026 are RailOne (the official Indian Railways super app), ixigo and ConfirmTkt (waitlist prediction and refund add-ons), RailYatri and Trainman (live status, food and PNR tools), redRail by redBus (offers on convenience fees) and payment apps like Paytm and PhonePe.

The catch: none of them has its own seats. All of them sell from the same Indian Railways reservation pool, and for a reserved ticket you still need an IRCTC user ID. They are better thought of as different doors into the same house.

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Book IRCTC Train Tickets from USA, UK, Canada & Abroad

Quick answer: Yes, you can book Indian Railways tickets from anywhere in the world on irctc.co.in or the IRCTC Rail Connect app. There is no separate NRI website. Pay with an international Visa, Mastercard or Amex card (or UPI if your bank supports it for NRIs), and plan around India Standard Time (IST): booking opens 60 days ahead at 8:00 AM IST, and Tatkal opens at 10:00 AM IST (AC) and 11:00 AM IST (non-AC) one day before travel.

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Independent: we are not part of IRCTC or Indian Railways, and we say so on every page.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is My IRCTC the official IRCTC website?

No. My IRCTC (myirctc.co.in) is an independent guide and is not affiliated with IRCTC or Indian Railways. It explains how IRCTC services work, but tickets are booked on the official IRCTC website at irctc.co.in or in the official IRCTC Rail Connect app.

What can I find on My IRCTC?

You can find step-by-step guides to IRCTC login and registration, ticket booking, Tatkal, PNR status, live train status, seat availability, cancellations and refunds, and travel guides to major railway stations. Each guide links to related pages so you can follow a task from start to finish.

How do I check my PNR status?

Enter your 10-digit PNR on the official IRCTC or Indian Railways enquiry services. Our PNR status guide explains each status code, such as confirmed, RAC and waitlist, so you know what your booking means and what to do next.

How far ahead can I book a train ticket?

For most trains, reservations open about 60 days before the journey, but some trains and quotas follow different windows. Use our booking date checker to find the opening date for your journey, and confirm it on the official IRCTC website.

How up to date are the guides?

Newer guides show a last-updated date and list their sources, but railway rules, fares and timings change often. Treat each guide as a starting point and confirm important details on the official IRCTC website or at the station before you travel.

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Ready to book? Use the official IRCTC website. Questions about this site? See our FAQ or customer care guide.

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My IRCTC: Your Guide to IRCTC and Indian Railways

Quick Tools

What You Will Find Here

Account and login

Booking and Tatkal

Station guides

Travelling from abroad

Popular Guides and Resources

IRCTC Login: Steps, Reset Password and Fixes

How to Create an IRCTC Account

How to Book a Train Ticket on IRCTC

IRCTC Tatkal Booking Guide

Train Ticket Cancellation and Refund

Check Train Seat Availability

PNR Status and What the Codes Mean

Coach Position and Platform Number Guide

Book IRCTC Tickets from Abroad

Railway Station Guides

New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS)

Ahmedabad Railway Station (ADI)

Why Use My IRCTC

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