One of the most convenient, and cheapest, ways to travel in India is by train. Indian Railways provides options for every traveller in terms of different classes, seating arrangements and onboard facilities provided. But for a first-time train passenger, the classes, like 1A, 2A, 3A, SL and CC may be confusing. The Indian train classes discussed in this complete guide will tell you what each class is about, the comfort and privacy you will get and what you can expect on your ride. We will also discuss CC in train Food Delivery in Train, How IRCTC Food Order in Train Works, and Food Delivery at Railway Station.
What is 1a 2a 3a in train?
The different types of Air-Conditioned (AC) coaches available on Indian trains are the 1A, 2A and 3A coaches. All three have air-conditioned travel, but they are very different when it comes to privacy, seating, sleeping accommodations. The difference between 2a and 3a can help you know better about each class.
1A – First AC
1A or First AC is the highest class in many trains in India. It is meant for those who seek more privacy, comfort and quiet during their journey. Coaches are normally private cabins or coupe style compartments. A cabin typically sleeps four passengers and a coupe will have two berths. Depending on the design of the train and coach, curtains/down or doors offer extra privacy.
2A – Second AC
Second AC or 2A” is a popular option for those looking to strike a balance between comfort and cost. Most coaches have sleeping berths in bays and are air-conditioned. Generally there are four berths and two side berths per bay.
The difference between Sleeper Class and 2A is more comfortable environment plus less berths per bay and air conditioning.
3A – Third AC
Another air-conditioned sleeping class is the third AC or the so called 3A class. It is normally cheaper than 2A but is still as comfortable as an AC coach. The difference is that 3A has more seats in each coach and isn’t always as private as 2A. There are 6 berths (4 in the main area of the 3A bay and 2 in the side) in every 3A bay.
For those who travel long distances or overnight who are on a budget, 3A may be a good option.
What is SL CC?
SL = Sleeper Class. It is one of the most popular classes used on Indian Railways particularly for long-distance travel. Sleeper Class coaches do not have air conditioning, but do have sleeping berths. Main section of the typical bay includes six berths, while the side part contains two.
Sleeper Class typically offers the following:
- Sleeping berths
- No air conditioning
- Fans and windows
- More affordable fares
- Lower than the AC classes
What Does CC Mean in Train?
CC = Chair Car, CC in train is mainly for daytime travel – not overnight – and is for people who prefer to sit in a seat and travel all day. Comfortable reclining seats or fixed seats (depends on train) and air conditioned coaches for CC.
Look for CC on intercity trains, Shatabdi-type trains and any other daytime train.
CC is suitable for:
- Short and medium distance travel
- Daytime travel
- Sitting passengers rather than sleeping passengers
- Air-conditioned travel
The layout and facilities of trains may change from one train to another, please check.
Food Delivery in Train: How Does It Work?
People often get hungry on long trains, particularly if they travel for a long period of time. Luckily, there are other ways to get food delivered at Train. A buffet of meals, snacks and drinks is available and can be ordered by passengers, though there are no assurances of their availability on a particular route or when during the trip.
Typically, when ordering food, passengers will require to provide the following information:
- Train number
- PNR number
- Boarding station
- Specific information regarding a seat or berth.
- Contact information
The availability of food delivery depends on the train, route and station.
When travelling during the peak seasons of weekends, holidays and festival seasons, it is recommended to request food in advance.
IRCTC Food Order in Train
Where available, IRCTC Food Order in Train is available for passengers to avail the railway’s authorised catering and e-catering services. The e-catering facility enables travelling public to order food from food suppliers and restaurants at designated railway stations. The bare bone principle is to input your PNR or your journey information, view the list of available food items and then place an order for the same food at a food eligible station for delivery.
Food Delivery at Railway Station
Food Delivery at Railway Station is another convenient option. People do not eat on board or bring food from home, but have the option to have food delivered to them to their train during a scheduled stop in the station.
Final Thoughts
Travelling by train can be very easy with the knowledge of Indian train classes. 1A, 2A and 3A offer levels of AC comfort, and SL is a budget sleeping choice. CC, on the other hand, takes into consideration comfort for daytime use. No one train class is best for all. It is dependent on the duration of your trip, your budget and how comfortable you are with the options, as well as deciding if you need a sleeping berth or not. If you need help with good food in your journey, Traveler Food is always here to deliver the best quality food to your doorstep. Contact at 7827998877 and get your delivery at your berth.
Happy traveling with your family!