How to Get Food Delivered in a Train in India: Train journeys in India are known for their scenic beauty and long hours on the track. But, what if you could make your travel experience even better by having fresh, hot food delivered right to your seat? With advancements in food delivery services for trains, passengers no longer need to rely on station snacks or the sometimes bland onboard meals.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get food delivered while traveling by train in India.
Methods to Order Food on a Train
1. Using Online Food Delivery Apps
You already use food delivery apps for your everyday meals, but did you know that you can use them on your train journey too? Apps like Zomato, Swiggy, and even IRCTC’s e-catering service are game-changers when it comes to ordering food during your train ride.
How It Works:
- Open Your Food Delivery App: Apps like Zomato and Swiggy are commonly used for this. If you’re on a long-distance train, you can also use IRCTC’s official e-catering app or website.
- Search for Available Restaurants: Most apps will allow you to search based on the station or the area where your train is about to stop. Simply enter the station name or allow the app to track your location.
- Choose Your Meal: From street food to hearty meals, there’s a wide variety of options to choose from. You can select what suits your taste and dietary preferences—vegetarian, vegan, or even low-carb options are usually available.
- Track Your Delivery: Once you’ve placed your order, you can track it through the app in real-time. Most apps provide updates on the estimated delivery time, so you’ll know exactly when your meal will arrive.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Variety: These apps have a huge selection of food, including local delicacies, fast food, and even international cuisines like pizza, pasta, and sushi. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s something to satisfy your cravings.
- Customizable Orders: Have specific food preferences? You can easily customize your order, making it easier to get a meal that fits your exact taste.
- Convenience: You don’t have to leave your seat or wander around the station looking for food. Order directly from the comfort of your train seat and get the meal delivered to the next station.
Keep in Mind:
- Coverage Areas: Delivery isn’t available everywhere. Be sure to check whether food delivery services operate at your particular station stop.
- Delivery Times: Depending on the station and the distance from the restaurant, delivery times can vary. Make sure you order ahead of time to avoid missing your train stop.
How to Check the Food Included in a Train Ticket in India
2. Train-Specific Catering Services (IRCTC)
If you’re looking for something official and reliable, IRCTC’s e-catering service is the way to go. It allows you to order food from pre-approved, certified vendors and have it delivered directly to your seat. This service ensures that food is hygienic, safe, and meets quality standards.
How to Use It:
- Visit the IRCTC e-Catering Website or App: Start by going to the IRCTC e-catering website or downloading their mobile app.
- Enter Your Train Details: You’ll need to enter your train name, date, and PNR number to confirm the details of your journey.
- Browse the Menu: IRCTC collaborates with numerous restaurants across India, offering a wide variety of meal options. Browse through menus based on your route and station stops.
- Place Your Order: Select your meal and choose a payment method (online payment, debit/credit card, or COD).
- Track Your Food: Once the order is placed, you can track its progress and get updates on when to expect your delivery.
What’s Great About It:
- Quality Assurance: The food you order through IRCTC e-catering comes from trusted, certified vendors that meet hygiene and quality standards. This eliminates the guesswork that comes with onboard pantry food.
- Variety: There’s a wide selection of meals, ranging from vegetarian dishes to continental cuisines, and even snacks and beverages.
- Hassle-Free: You don’t have to worry about your food being late or subpar, as IRCTC partners with reliable restaurants to ensure timely deliveries.
What to Watch For:
- Service Availability: While most long-distance trains offer IRCTC e-catering, this service isn’t available on all routes or trains. Make sure the service operates on your specific route.
- Meal Options: The menu, while diverse, may not be as expansive as what you’d find on third-party apps. You’ll mostly be able to choose from well-rounded, popular meals, but the selection can vary based on the station and vendor.
3. Train Pantry and Onboard Food Services
For those who prefer to keep things simple, train pantry cars and onboard food vendors are always there, ready to serve you. While not the most luxurious option, it can be a quick and convenient way to get food during your train journey.
How to Order:
The process is straightforward—when the pantry car or food vendor makes their rounds, simply look out for them and place your order. On some trains, you can ask the train conductor to arrange food, but for most trains, food is served directly to your seat.
What You Can Expect:
- Snacks: These typically include items like chips, biscuits, fruit, and packaged food.
- Meals: On longer routes, expect full meals like rice and dal, curry, chapati, or local cuisine.
- Beverages: Hot tea and coffee are almost always available, along with bottled water and cold drinks.
Why You Might Love It:
- Instant Access: No waiting for delivery—food comes to you.
- Easy Payment: Payment is typically made on the spot via cash or sometimes by card, depending on the train service.
- No App Required: Don’t need an internet connection, just wait for the vendor or pantry car to pass by.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Limited Options: While the pantry car can provide a quick meal, the food selection is often limited, especially if you’re on a shorter route.
- Food Quality: The food quality varies depending on the train and vendor, so the experience might not be as consistent as what you’d get from dedicated food services.
4. Ordering from Local Restaurants Near the Train Station
Sometimes the best meals come from local eateries near the station. If you’re not a fan of typical train food, you can order from nearby restaurants and have food delivered directly to your train at a station stop.
How to Order:
- Use Special Food Delivery Services: Services like RailRestro partner with local restaurants to bring food right to your seat. Simply check if the service operates at your station, and place an order via their app or website.
- Pick Your Meal: Select your meal, which can range from local specialties to more mainstream options, depending on what the station offers.
- Delivery Time: Be sure to check the expected delivery time, so you’re ready when the food arrives.
Why It’s Great:
- Local Flavors: You can enjoy authentic regional cuisine, which can make your journey more exciting.
- Fresh Meals: Since the food is prepared fresh by a local restaurant, it’s often tastier and more flavorful than the standard pantry car options.
- Convenient Delivery: Just like IRCTC e-catering, the meal is delivered directly to your seat.
Things to Watch Out For:
- Service Availability: This option is only available at specific stations, so make sure the service is available at the station where your train will stop.
- Timing: Ensure your train will be at the station long enough for your meal to arrive on time. Delays can happen, so it’s best to plan with a buffer.
Things to Keep in Mind When Ordering Food on a Train
- Payment Options: Most services allow online payment, but some stations or delivery services may offer cash on delivery as well. Be sure to check what’s available to avoid any surprises.ected to arrive at your train.
- Delivery Timings: Trains can be delayed, so you’ll want to factor in some extra time when ordering food. Ordering early is always a good idea to avoid getting hungry while waiting.
- Food Quality: Opt for meals that are easy to transport and will remain fresh during the delivery process. Some foods travel better than others, so if you’re unsure, ask the service for recommendations.
How to Order Food in Train In India: A Complete Guide
Tips for a Smooth Delivery Experience
To ensure that your food delivery goes smoothly, here are some helpful tips:
- Verify Train and Station Details: Double-check your train number, journey details, and station/platform details when placing your order. This will prevent any confusion during delivery.
- Pre-order for Long Journeys: For longer trips, it’s a good idea to pre-order meals in advance to avoid the rush. You can also ensure you get your preferred dishes this way.
- Track Your Order: Use the app’s tracking feature to keep an eye on when your meal will arrive. This will help you plan your meal and enjoy it hot.
- Have Cash Ready: If you’ve chosen the cash-on-delivery option, ensure you have the right amount of cash on hand when the food arrives.
Cost and Payment
The cost of food delivery varies based on the type of meal, train route, and the vendor. Expect to pay between ₹100 to ₹500 for a standard meal. Special meals or premium options may cost a bit more.
Most delivery platforms accept multiple payment methods, including:
- Online Payment: Debit and credit cards, net banking, and digital wallets like Paytm and Google Pay.
- Cash on Delivery: If you prefer paying in cash, some services offer a cash-on-delivery option, though this may not be available on all routes.
Make sure to check the total cost, including delivery charges, before confirming your order.
Advantages of Ordering Food in Train
Ordering food while traveling by train has several advantages:
- Convenience: No more rushing to find food at stations or relying on limited onboard options. With food delivery apps, you get the convenience of having meals delivered directly to your seat.
- Variety: With so many options to choose from, you can enjoy a wide variety of foods, from home-style meals to snacks and desserts.
- Time-Saving: Food delivery saves you time that you would otherwise spend searching for a restaurant or waiting in long station queues.
Conclusion
With food delivery services now available on most trains in India, you can say goodbye to the hassles of meal planning during your journey. Whether you’re traveling short distances or embarking on a long journey, you can enjoy a wide range of meals delivered right to your seat, making your train journey more comfortable and enjoyable. So next time you’re heading out on a train, don’t forget to order your favorite meal and enjoy the ride!