🚆✈️ Booking Trains & Flights in India – A Guide for Russian Visitors
India's vast size makes train and domestic flight travel essential for Russian tourists exploring multiple destinations. This guide helps you understand how to book tickets, which platforms to use, classes to choose, and smart travel tips — all tailored for a smooth and safe journey.
🚉 Booking Trains in India – What Russians Need to Know
🧭 Why Travel by Train?
India’s railway network is one of the largest in the world and offers:
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Affordable long-distance travel
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Scenic routes through cities, mountains, and villages
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A cultural experience unique to India
📝 How to Book Train Tickets
✅ Option 1: IRCTC Website (Official)
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Requires one-time registration and a local Indian mobile number (or OTP workaround with email)
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Accepts international cards with extra verification
✅ Option 2: Trusted Travel Apps/Websites
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Cleartrip.com, MakeMyTrip, ConfirmTkt, Trainman
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User-friendly interface; often easier than IRCTC for foreigners
🚆 Popular Train Classes:
Class | Description |
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1A | First AC – private, spacious, clean, expensive |
2A | Second AC – good comfort, ideal for tourists |
3A | Third AC – economical with AC |
SL | Sleeper Class – cheap but no AC, not recommended for first-time foreign travelers |
Tip: Book early — trains fill up fast, especially for popular routes like Delhi–Agra, Jaipur–Jodhpur, Varanasi–Delhi.
✈️ Domestic Flights in India – A Quick Guide
✈️ Why Choose Flights?
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Saves time for long distances (e.g., Delhi to Kerala, Goa to Varanasi)
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Affordable with early booking
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Major airports in most tourist cities
📱 How to Book Indian Domestic Flights
Use top-rated platforms:
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MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, Goibibo, Skyscanner, IXIGO
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International cards are accepted
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Compare prices and baggage limits (some low-cost airlines charge extra)
🛫 Popular Airlines
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IndiGo – Largest, reliable, and on-time
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Air India Express – Government-run, includes meals
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SpiceJet, Vistara, Akasa Air, AirAsia India – Good service and coverage
🧳 Flight Tips for Russian Tourists
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Arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights
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Keep e-ticket & passport ready (visa printout too)
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Most domestic flights allow 15–20 kg check-in + 7 kg cabin baggage
🗓️ When to Book?
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Trains: Book 30–60 days in advance via IRCTC
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Flights: Book 3–6 weeks in advance for best prices
📲 Extra Travel Tools for Russia-to-India Visitors
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Google Translate (English↔Russian)
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RailYatri App – Live train status, PNR checks
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IXIGO Trains/Flights – Easy bookings & updates
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Uber/Ola Cabs – Local rides from stations/airports
✅ Final Tips
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Always check station/airport names carefully (some cities have more than one)
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Book window seats for scenic routes like Goa–Kerala or Delhi–Shimla
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Use ATMs or cards for ticket purchases; cash may not be accepted at counters
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Keep screenshots of your booking, as internet may be unreliable in transit
With smart planning, India’s trains and flights will open up rich landscapes, cultural treasures, and unforgettable journeys — all at your fingertips.