Indian Railways has officially clarified the revised train fare structure that will come into effect from December 26, 2025. After announcing a passenger fare hike earlier, the Railways has now released detailed information on which trains and classes will be affected and which services will remain unchanged.
The fare revision is part of Indian Railways’ efforts to meet rising operational and manpower costs while continuing infrastructure expansion.
Train Services Where Fares Will Increase
The class-wise fare hike will apply to most long-distance and premium passenger trains across the country. The revised fares will be applicable on the following services:
- Rajdhani Express
- Shatabdi Express
- Duronto Express
- Vande Bharat Express
- Tejas Express
- Humsafar Express
- Amrit Bharat Express
- Garib Rath Express
- Jan Shatabdi Express
- Antyodaya Express
- Gatiman Express
- Yuva Express
- Namo Bharat Rapid Rail
- All Mail and Express trains
This confirms that almost all premium and long-distance trains will see a fare revision from December 26.
Trains Where Ticket Prices Will Remain Unchanged
Indian Railways has also clarified that no fare hike will be applicable for the following ticket categories:
- Suburban train single-journey tickets
- All suburban and non-suburban season tickets
This decision ensures daily commuters and season ticket holders remain unaffected.
Fare Changes for Ordinary Non-AC Trains
Second Class Ordinary
- Up to 215 km: No change
- 216 to 750 km: ₹5 increase
- 751 to 1250 km: ₹10 increase
- 1251 to 1750 km: ₹15 increase
- 1751 to 2250 km: ₹20 increase
Sleeper Class (Ordinary)
- Increase of 1 paisa per km
First Class (Ordinary)
- Increase of 1 paisa per km
Fare Changes for Mail and Express Non-AC Trains
For Mail and Express services without air-conditioning:
- Second Class: 2 paise per km increase
- Sleeper Class: 2 paise per km increase
- First Class: 2 paise per km increase
Fare Changes for AC Classes
The following AC classes will see a uniform hike of 2 paise per km:
- AC Chair Car
- AC 3 Tier and 3E
- AC 2 Tier
- AC First Class and Executive Class
These changes will also apply to premium and special trains, including Vande Bharat and Rajdhani services.
Important Points Passengers Must Know
- No change in reservation charges, superfast charges, or other fees
- GST rates remain unchanged
- Fare rounding rules remain the same
- Tickets booked before December 26, 2025 will not be affected
- Tickets issued by TTEs after December 26 will be charged at new rates
Implementation and Passenger Information
Indian Railways has confirmed that:
- Updated fare charts will be displayed at railway stations
- PRS, UTS, and manual ticketing systems will reflect the revised fares
- Railway staff will receive advance instructions to ensure smooth implementation
Passengers are advised to check ticket prices before booking for journeys scheduled on or after December 26.
Why Indian Railways Increased Fares
Railway officials stated that the fare revision is necessary due to:
- Rising manpower and pension costs
- Expansion of rail infrastructure
- Increased operational expenses
Despite the hike, Indian Railways continues to remain one of the most affordable long-distance transport systems in the country.
