When does train ticket booking open for 1st March 2026?

Advance train ticket booking for 1st March 2026 opens on Wednesday, 31st December 2025 at 8:00 AM IST, which is 60 days before journey date.

What if I miss the advance ticket booking for 1st March 2026?

You can book Tatkal tickets on Saturday, 28th February 2026 - AC classes at 10:00 AM IST and Sleeper/2S at 11:00 AM IST.

How do I prepare for booking train ticket on 31st December 2025?

Login to IRCTC at 7:45 AM, have passenger details ready (name, age, gender, berth preference), ensure payment methods are active, keep train number and journey details prepared, and use a stable internet connection.

Is 1st March 2026 a high-demand travel date?

Yes, this falls on a weekend, which typically sees higher demand. Book as early as possible when booking opens to secure confirmed tickets.

IRCTC Train Ticket Booking Open Date for 1st March 2026

Advance Booking Status

60-day advance reservation

Booking Opened On

Wednesday, 31st December 2025

8:00 AM IST

Now Open

Train tickets for 1st March 2026 become available exactly 60 days before departure from the train's origin station.

Tatkal Booking Window

Emergency booking option

If you miss advance booking, Tatkal tickets open 1 day before your journey date on Saturday, 28th February 2026:

AC Classes (1A, 2A, 3A, CC, EC)

10:00 AM IST

Sleeper & Second Sitting (SL, 2S)

11:00 AM IST

Important: Tatkal tickets have dynamic pricing and limited refunds. Have passenger details and payment ready before booking time.
Aadhar Verification Required: Your IRCTC account must be Aadhar-verified to book Tatkal tickets. Complete verification beforehand to avoid last-minute issues.

High Demand Period Alert

Weekend/Holiday travel warning

This journey date falls on a Sunday (weekend). Weekend travel typically sees increased demand.

Recommendation: Book on the first day of advance reservation (31st December 2025) at 8:00 AM sharp.

Booking Success Tips

Maximize your chances

Special Tips for 1st March:

Holi festival period - extremely high demand throughout March
Schools have vacation period - family travel peaks
Hill stations and heritage sites see maximum visitors
North India weather perfect - Golden Triangle routes busy
Book at least on opening day for any March date

Login Early

Log into IRCTC 15 minutes before booking opens

Save Details

Use Master List for frequent traveler details

Payment Ready

Keep UPI, cards, and net banking as backups

Alternatives

Check connecting trains or nearby stations

Additional Information

Special notes for this date

March brings spring and major festivals like Holi. It's one of the busiest travel months with festival travel, vacation trips, and tourism at peak. Book well in advance for all March dates.

IRCTC Ticket Date Calculator

Train Ticket Booking Opening Date for 1st March 2026