Important Update for Train Travellers: Has Tatkal, Premium Tatkal booking time changed? Here is what IRCTC says

Tatkal Ticket Booking Time: In recent days, some reports have been circulating on social media claiming that IRCTC has updated the booking timing of Tatkal and Premium Tatkal tickets. These viral posts have created a lot of confusion among the train travellers. So, is it true? Are the booking times for Tatkal and Premium Tatkal tickets modified? Here is what IRCTC says -

What is the viral post claiming?

Several posts have been surfacing on Social Media platforms regarding varying timings of Tatkal and Premium Tatkal tickets

Has IRCTC revised Tatkal and Premium Tatkal booking timing?

No, Tatkal and Premium Tatkal ticket booking timing have not changed, IRCTC assured in a statement issued on its official social media handles. 

What did IRCTC say?

IRCTC stated: "No such change in timings is presently under consideration in the Tatkal or Premium Tatkal booking timings for AC or Non-AC classes."

Some posts are circulating on Social Media channels mentioning about different timings for Tatkal and Premium Tatkal tickets.

No such change in timings is currently proposed in the Tatkal or Premium Tatkal booking timings for AC or Non-AC classes.

The permitted booking… pic.twitter.com/bTsgpMVFEZ

— IRCTC (@IRCTCofficial) April 11, 2025

What is the precise time to book Tatkal and Premium Tatkal tickets?

Tatkal Ticket Booking Time (IRCTC)

• AC Classes (1AC, 2AC, 3AC, CC, EC): Booking begins at 10:00 AM, one day prior to the journey date.
• Sleeper Class (SL): Booking begins at 11:00 AM, one day prior to the journey date.

Example: If your train is departing on April 15, Tatkal booking will open on April 14 at 10:00 AM for AC classes and at 11:00 AM for Sleeper Class.

Premium Tatkal Ticket Booking Time

If Tatkal tickets are unavailable and your travel is urgent, Premium Tatkal is a second option — though it's more expensive as it follows dynamic pricing.

• AC Classes: Booking opens at 10:00 AM, one day in advance of the journey.
• Sleeper Class: Reservation begins at 11:00 AM, a day prior to the travel. 

Note: Premium Tatkal fares are more expensive as they have a dynamic fare system, where prices rise according to demand and seat availability.