Train Ticket Booking Guide for January 2026
Going by train in January 2026? Use this useful guide to determine when it is the best time to book your IRCTC tickets. You can book 60 days in advance, so set a reminder in your calendar when the window opens.
January 2026 Booking Information
- Advance Reservation Period: 60 days for general bookings
- Tatkal Booking: Opens 1 day before the journey date at 10:00 AM for AC classes and 11:00 AM for non-AC classes
Important Festivals and Holidays in January 2026
During festival seasons, train tickets are in high demand. Plan your journey well in advance for these special dates:
- New Year's Day (January 1): Booking opens on November 2, 2025 (60 days prior). Book your train tickets well in advance for better availability..
- Lohri (January 13): Booking opens on November 14, 2025 (60 days prior). Expect high demand for trains traveling to the Punjab region..
- Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Uttarayan (January 14): Booking opens on November 15, 2025 (60 days prior). High demand for trains across all routes in India..
- Vasant Panchami (January 23): Booking opens on November 24, 2025 (60 days prior). Anticipate high demand for trains heading towards East India..
- Republic Day (January 26): Booking opens on November 27, 2025 (60 days prior). High demand for trains traveling to Delhi, especially around this period..
Tips for Booking Train Tickets in January 2026
- Book Early: Tickets are sold out very fast, especially during weekend travel and festival dates.
- Use Multiple Payment Options: Keep UPI, net banking, and cards ready to avoid payment failures.
- Check Alternative Trains: Look for trains with similar routes but different timings.
- Consider Tatkal: If you missed the advance booking window, Tatkal opens one day before departure.
- Use IRCTC Mobile App: It's often faster than the website during high traffic periods.
Important Dates in January 2026
New Year's Day
A global celebration marking the start of a new year.
Date: January 1, 2026
Tip: Book your train tickets well in advance for better availability.
Lohri
A popular winter folk festival celebrated primarily in the Punjab region.
Date: January 13, 2026
Tip: Expect high demand for trains traveling to the Punjab region.
Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Uttarayan
Celebrated across India, marking the transition of the sun into Makar (Capricorn).
Date: January 14, 2026
Tip: High demand for trains across all routes in India.
Vasant Panchami
A Hindu festival celebrating the arrival of spring and dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.
Date: January 23, 2026
Tip: Anticipate high demand for trains heading towards East India.
Republic Day
Commemorates the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect.
Date: January 26, 2026
Tip: High demand for trains traveling to Delhi, especially around this period.
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