Train travel continues to be a widely used mode of transport across India. Whether it’s for work or family visits, many people rely on it for regular travel. Booking tickets online has become more common, especially with platforms like redRail offering access to various trains and seat classes. Once a person completes the online train booking, checking the PNR status becomes the next step in understanding whether the seat is confirmed, waitlisted, or RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation).
This blog explains what PNR status is, how to track it, and why it matters after completing an online train booking.
What Is PNR and Why Is It Important?
PNR stands for Passenger Name Record. It is a 10-digit number created when a train ticket is booked. This number holds travel details such as the passenger’s name, train number, journey date, seat class, boarding point, and current booking status.
Every train ticket generated online or at a station comes with a PNR. For travellers who book through redRail or similar platforms, this number is shared in the confirmation message and is visible in the bookings section.
PNR status helps travellers stay informed about changes in seat allocation. If a ticket is waitlisted at the time of booking, the PNR status tells whether it has moved to RAC or confirmed before the journey.
Ways to Check PNR Status
After completing the online train booking, there are a few different methods to check PNR status. These are simple and do not require much effort.
Through Official Railway Website
Visit the Indian Railways’ official website. Enter the 10-digit PNR number in the PNR enquiry field. It will display the latest booking status.
Via SMS Service
Type “PNR <10-digit PNR number>” and send it to 139. A message will be sent back with the booking status, including berth details if confirmed.
Using redRail
For those who booked tickets via redRail, the PNR status can be tracked directly from the redRail account. Go to the booking history, select the journey, and the current seat status will be available.
Through Mobile Apps
Railway-related mobile apps also allow users to enter the PNR number and view booking status. These apps update the status as soon as it changes.
Understanding PNR Status Terms
Once the PNR is entered, the results often contain terms that are not familiar to all
travellers. Here’s what the most common ones mean:
- CNF: Confirmed. A seat has been assigned.
- RAC: Reservation Against Cancellation. The passenger can board the train but
may not have a full seat. - WL: Waitlisted. No confirmed seat yet. The ticket might get confirmed if
cancellations happen. - CAN: Cancelled. The ticket is not valid for travel.
Knowing what each term means helps travellers make informed decisions. If a ticket remains waitlisted close to the date of travel, one can decide to cancel or consider another train.
When Does PNR Status Get Updated?
PNR status is updated regularly by the Indian Railways system. Changes occur due to cancellations, additional coaches, or reassignments. For example, a ticket booked as WL10 might move to RAC, then CNF as other passengers cancel their bookings. Status updates usually happen more frequently in the 24 hours before the departure. It is advisable to check the status at intervals, especially if the ticket was not confirmed at the time of booking.
Benefits of Checking PNR Status After Booking
Keeping an eye on the PNR status after the online train booking is complete helps
manage travel better.
- It gives clarity on whether the journey can proceed as planned.
- Saves last-minute confusion or rush.
- Allows time to make changes or consider alternatives.
- Helps in preparing for the journey with the right expectations.
Even when the seat is confirmed, checking the PNR status ensures that the coach
and seat details are available in advance.
Final Notes
Train travel requires preparation, and part of that includes checking updates related to seat confirmation. Knowing the PNR status early helps avoid uncertainty. After completing an online train booking, tracking this number becomes a part of the travel process. With platforms like redRail offering both ticket booking and PNR tracking in one place, managing a train journey has become more straightforward for travellers across the country.
Disclaimer: This is a guest post contributed by the mentioned brand/author. The views, opinions, and information expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JustWravel. We are not responsible for the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of any information provided in this post.
