🚆✈️ Train & Domestic Flight Booking in India – Guide for South African Visitors

Planning to explore India beyond your arrival city? Here's how South African travelers can easily book trains and domestic flights across India — with insider tips for comfort, safety, and convenience.

🚆 Train Travel in India – How to Book & What to Know

✅ Booking Options:

• IRCTC Website or App ( https://www.irctc.co.in )
  – Official government portal

• Authorized Portals: MakeMyTrip, ClearTrip, Paytm

• International Travelers: May need to verify with passport; consider using agents or IRCTC’s “Tourist Quota” for easier booking

🚆 Recommended Classes:

• 2AC (Second AC) – Air-conditioned sleeper with privacy

• 3AC (Third AC) – Budget-friendly, comfortable

• EC/CC (Executive/Chair Car) – For day trips on fast trains (e.g., Gatimaan Express)

🧳 Tips:

• Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance (longer for popular routes)

• Carry passport and ticket printout/e-copy

• Arrive early at stations; large and crowded

✈️ Booking Domestic Flights in India

🛫 Major Airlines:

• IndiGo – Most extensive network

• Vistara – Premium experience

• SpiceJet, Air India, Akasa Air, AirAsia India

📲 Booking Platforms:

• Official airline websites

• Aggregators: MakeMyTrip, Skyscanner, ClearTrip

🎒 Baggage & ID:

• Domestic flights have 15–20 kg check-in and 7 kg cabin limit

• Carry passport as ID for all domestic flights

• Airport security is strict — arrive 2 hours early

🗺️ Popular Routes for South Africans:

• Delhi → Varanasi, Jaipur, Goa

• Mumbai → Kochi, Udaipur, Bengaluru

• Chennai → Hyderabad, Port Blair (Andaman Islands)