Use Third-Party Travel Apps
While the IRCTC Rail Connect app is the official source, several authorised third-party apps sweeten the deal to attract users. Platforms like Ixigo, MakeMyTrip, and Goibibo are IRCTC-authorised partners that often provide their own loyalty points or direct
discounts. For instance, Ixigo has offered cashback on payments made via specific wallets or cards. MakeMyTrip provides its own set of coupon codes and runs special offers that can reduce your total fare. These apps function as a one-stop-shop, allowing you to compare train options while also viewing potential savings, making them a great first stop before any booking. Keep an eye out for app-exclusive deals that are not available on their websites.
Leverage Digital Wallet and UPI Offers
Paying for your train tickets through digital wallets like Paytm, Amazon Pay, or Mobikwik can unlock a new layer of savings. These platforms frequently run cashback offers specifically for IRCTC ticket bookings. For example, you might get a percentage of the transaction amount back into your wallet or receive a scratch card with a surprise cashback amount. Paytm has previously offered cashback on payment gateway fees for new users and other promotional deals. Similarly, Amazon Pay sometimes provides cashback that gets credited directly to your Amazon Pay balance. Before you finalise your payment on any booking app, always check the 'offers' or 'payments' section to see which wallet is providing the best return.
Get a Co-Branded IRCTC Credit Card
For frequent travellers, a co-branded credit card from banks like SBI, HDFC, Bank of Baroda, or RBL in partnership with IRCTC is one of the most effective ways to earn rewards. These cards are specifically designed to offer value back on train bookings. Key benefits often include a waiver of the 1% transaction charge on the IRCTC website and app, bonus reward points on activation, and an accelerated rewards rate on all train ticket purchases. For example, the IRCTC HDFC card offers reward points on IRCTC spending and complimentary access to railway lounges. The IRCTC SBI Card Premier provides up to 10% value back as reward points on AC class bookings. These accumulated points can then be redeemed for free train tickets in the future.
Explore the IRCTC Loyalty Program
Indian Railways has its own loyalty scheme, often linked with co-branded credit cards, where frequent travellers can earn redeemable points. Under programs like 'Shubh Yatra', users earn points for booking tickets, particularly for AC classes. These points are accrued in your loyalty account after the journey is completed and can be used to pay for future tickets once you reach a minimum threshold. To participate, you typically need to link your loyalty program number, often found on your co-branded credit card, with your IRCTC user ID. This method is ideal for those who primarily book through the official IRCTC channels and travel in higher classes to maximize point accrual.
Check General Bank Offers and Portals
Beyond co-branded cards, your existing bank credit or debit card might have offers you're not aware of. Many banks run periodic promotions on travel bookings. Banks like HDFC offer extra reward points or cashback on travel spending made through their specific portals or with their cards on partner apps like Ixigo. It is always worthwhile to check your bank's mobile app or website for any ongoing partnerships with travel aggregators. These offers might be in the form of an instant discount or cashback credited to your account after the transaction. Combining a bank offer with an app-specific discount can sometimes lead to double the savings.
