Travelling with your furry companions on Indian Railways might seem daunting, but it's entirely doable with the right planning. I took a journey from Bangalore to New Delhi with my two dogs, and then from Rishikesh to Jaipur — and here's everything I learned about taking pets on trains across India.
Should You Travel with Your Dog?
Before diving into the how-to, ask yourself:
- Is your dog fit, calm, and happy to travel?
- Will your stay be long enough to justify the effort?
- Is leaving your dog with a trusted person or boarding facility not an option?
In my case, I couldn't leave my dogs behind. Travelling with them gave me peace of mind and allowed me to extend my trip freely.
A. Booking Train Tickets for You and Your Dog
1. Choose First AC Only
Pets are only allowed in First AC (1A), specifically in a Coupe (2-berth) or Cabin (4-berth with known passengers).
2. Check If Your Train Has 1A
Not all trains have First AC. Confirm this on the IRCTC website before online train booking.
3. Book a Coupe
To ensure privacy and approval for your pet, book two confirmed 1A tickets. Select "Coupe" as your preference.
Solo Travellers Tip: You can book two tickets using your name and that of a family member. If you're alone, explain to the TT that the second passenger couldn't make it. In case you are in waitlist, you should keep your PNR number handy to check pnr status instantly.
B. Prepare Documents: Documents required for your pet.
Indian Railways requires:
- A Health Certificate issued within 24–48 hours of travel.
- Vaccination Records.
Visit your vet 2–3 days before departure to get these ready. Some clinics charge ₹400–₹1000.
Note: Though not always checked, it's safer to carry all documents.
C. Request a Coupe from the Station Reservation Officer
Increase your chances of getting a couple by submitting a written request:
- Address it to the Reservation Officer.
- Include PNR, travel date, Aadhar copies, and pet's health/vaccination certificates.
- Submit at the station where the train originates, ideally 1–2 days before the journey.
D. Travelling Without First AC Option (Budget-Friendly Route)
If First AC is unavailable or unaffordable:
Use the Luggage/Brake Van Option
- Book a "luggage ticket" for your pet.
- The dog is placed in a dog box in the luggage van.
- You can travel in any class; visit your dog at stops (with the guard's permission).
Charges depend on weight/distance; we paid approx ₹1100 per dog.
Caution: Availability is limited to one dog box per train. Not ideal for anxious or elderly dogs.
E. What to Pack for the Train Journey?
Here's a pet parent checklist for comfort and hygiene:
- Poop scooper
- Dog bed or mat (helps absorb training jerks)
- Newspapers (for hygiene)
- Dog food, fruits, and packaged yoghurt
- Treats and chew toys
- Dog ID tags with contact number
- Bedsheet (if the dog sleeps on your berth)
F. Buying Your Dog's Luggage Ticket (Final Step)
Even if your ticket is confirmed and you have a couple:
- Visit the luggage booking office at the departure station at least 4 hours before your train.
- Bring your pet, Aadhar card, health certificate, and vaccination records.
- Dogs will be weighed (sometimes skipped) and charged a fee.
- Get the luggage ticket, and you're officially cleared to board with your pet.
G. Boarding the Train with Your Dog
- Arrive early to avoid delays.
- Carry all documents and essentials.
- Help your dog settle comfortably on their mat or designated spot inside the coupe.
- Stay calm — you're ready!
Conclusion
Travelling with your dogs on Indian Railways can be memorable and smooth if you follow these steps. After your first trip, you'll feel more confident navigating the process with ease. Whether you're in a luxurious First AC coupe or managing with the luggage van, there's a way for every pet parent to travel across India with their loyal companions.
Safe travels and happy tails!
