Wondering Is Food Free in Duronto Express available or not? And at what time will the food be served? These are common questions raised by passengers planning to travel on Duronto Express.
In this blog, we will answer all of your questions, providing valuable insights into the availability of complimentary meals and their serving timings. So, let’s begin.
Is Food Free in Duronto Express?
One of the most frequently asked questions about Duronto Express is whether food is free. Well, the clear answer is no; free food is not provided on Duronto Express.
If you desire a complimentary meal during your journey, you must pay extra charges while booking your ticket or you can also order it during your journey.
Duronto Express provides two food options for passengers: “WITH-FOOD” and “NO-FOOD“. Passengers can choose either of these options when booking their tickets on the IRCTC website or at the reservation counter. The selected food option influences the fare and the onboard dining experience.
WITH-FOOD Option
By choosing the “WITH-FOOD” option, passengers receive complimentary meals served at regular intervals during the journey. The food charges are already included in the ticket expense, covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, tea, coffee, soup, and bottled water.
However, specific items on the menu may vary based on the route and journey duration. Passengers in AC First Class, AC 2 Tier, AC 3 Tier, and Sleeper Class can expect a satisfying and complimentary dining experience. Food charges differ for each class; for example, AC First Class incurs Rs 340, while Sleeper Class incurs Rs 175.
NO-FOOD Option
Opting for the “NO-FOOD” option means passengers won’t receive complimentary meals on board, and the catering charges are deducted from the total fare.
However, passengers can still order food during the journey, paying an extra Rs 50 for each meal. Alternatively, passengers can bring their own food or purchase from external vendors at stations, though the railways do not guarantee the quality and hygiene of such food.
The “NO-FOOD” option is available for passengers in AC First Class, AC 2 Tier, AC 3 Tier, and Sleeper Class on Duronto Express. The fare reduction varies for each class, with Rs 340 for AC First Class and Rs 175 for Sleeper Class.
Is Food Included in Duronto Express Ticket?
Duronto Express provides a delightful culinary experience with a diverse menu featuring regional and continental dishes. The thoughtfully curated menu caters to various preferences and dietary needs, ensuring a satisfying journey.
The cost of food is already included in your ticket, covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, tea, coffee, and soup. The food, served by courteous staff, is hygienically prepared and packed.
Passengers can choose between vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and Jain options for a hassle-free dining experience.
Some of the popular dishes that you can enjoy on Duronto Express are:
- Aloo paratha, curd, pickle, and butter for breakfast
- Veg biryani, raita, salad, and ice cream for lunch
- Paneer butter masala, roti, dal, rice, and gulab jamun for dinner
- Samosa, sandwich, cake, and juice for snacks
- Chicken curry, roti, dal, rice, and rasgulla for non-vegetarian meals
However, if a passenger on Duronto Express prefers not to avail the catering service, they can choose to opt-out while booking the ticket. This decision will result in a reduction of the ticket price, equivalent to the food charges.
The specific amount varies depending on the class and route of the train. But, if the passenger changes their mind and decides to have food on board later, they will be required to pay an additional INR 50 per meal.
It is recommended to carefully consider the food option when booking the ticket. Alternatively, passengers can also order their preferred meals from Railofy, which offers a variety of cuisines with timely delivery to your seat.
Read: Is Food Included in Rajdhani Ticket?
Also Read: Is food free in Vande Bharat Express?
Duronto Express Food Timing
The timing of meals during your journey on Duronto Express depends on the duration of the trip and the train’s schedule.
Here are some general guidelines
- For AC First Class, AC 2 Tier, and AC 3 Tier passengers, food is served regularly, typically four times a day, with the following schedule:
- Breakfast: Between 7 am and 9 am, depending on the train’s departure time.
- Lunch: Between 12 pm and 2 pm, depending on the train’s arrival time.
- Snacks: Between 4 pm and 6 pm, depending on the travel time.
- Dinner: Between 8 pm and 10 pm, depending on the train’s destination time.
- For Sleeper Class and Second Sitting passengers, food is served on demand and can be ordered at any time during the journey. The timing is flexible and depends on the availability of food items and vendors.
- For Duronto Rajdhani and Duronto Shatabdi trains, food is served at fixed intervals, usually three times a day, with the following schedule:
- Breakfast: Between 6 am and 8 am, depending on the train’s departure time.
- Lunch: Between 11 am and 1 pm, depending on the train’s arrival time.
- Dinner: Between 7 pm and 9 pm, depending on the train’s destination time.
| Class | Frequency | Breakfast Timing | Lunch Timing | Snacks Timing | Dinner Timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC First Class, AC 2 Tier, AC 3 Tier | Four times a day | 7 am – 9 am | 12 pm – 2 pm | 4 pm – 6 pm | 8 pm – 10 pm |
| Sleeper Class | On-demand | Flexible | Flexible | Flexible | Flexible |
| Second Sitting | On-demand | Flexible | Flexible | Flexible | Flexible |
| Duronto Rajdhani & Shatabdi | Three times a day | 6 am – 8 am | 11 am – 1 pm | – | 7 pm – 9 pm |
Duronto Express Catering Service
The quality and taste of food on Duronto Express are subjective, varying based on personal preferences and opinions.
However, understanding some general information about the catering service providers and their partners can be useful.
1. AC First Class, AC 2 Tier, and AC 3 Tier passengers
Food for these classes is prepared and served by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a subsidiary of Indian Railways.
IRCTC collaborates with well-known food chains and caterers like Haldiram’s, MTR, Comesum, Travelkhana, and Railrestro to ensure passengers receive quality and hygienic food. Regular inspections and audits are conducted by IRCTC to maintain food standards and safety.
2. Sleeper Class and Second Sitting passengers
Food for these classes is provided by the pantry car staff or vendors at the stations. The pantry car staff is employed by IRCTC, but food quality and hygiene may vary based on the specific train and route.
Vendors are typically local food sellers offering a variety of items at reasonable prices. Passengers are advised to check the quality and expiry date of food before purchasing.
3. Duronto Rajdhani and Duronto Shatabdi trains
Food for these trains is prepared and served by Indian Railways itself, having its catering department and staff. The food is cooked in base kitchens located at major stations and then transferred to the trains.
It maintains high standards of quality and hygiene, following the standard menu and protocol of Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains
Special Dietary Requirements
If you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions, such as being vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, diabetic, or having allergies, you may be curious about whether Duronto Express can accommodate your needs. The answer is yes, but there are certain limitations and conditions.
1. AC First Class, AC 2 Tier, and AC 3 Tier passengers
Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. However, if you have specific dietary needs, you must inform the ticket booking staff or the pantry car manager at least 24 hours before the journey.
Alternatively, you can mention your preferences in the special remarks section when booking your ticket online. While IRCTC will attempt to accommodate your request, it cannot guarantee the availability or quality of the food. An additional charge may apply for special meal requests.
2. Sleeper Class and Second Sitting passengers
Both veg and non-veg options are available. If you have specific dietary needs, you must order food from the pantry car staff or vendors at the stations. You can also use the e-catering service provided by IRCTC, allowing you to order food online from various restaurants and food chains.
However, you need to place the order at least 2 hours before the journey or the scheduled stop. The full price must be paid for special meals, as there is no subsidy or discount.
3. Duronto Rajdhani and Duronto Shatabdi trains
Both veg and non-veg options are available. If you have specific dietary needs, inform the ticket booking staff or the train attendant at least 48 hours before the journey. You can also mention your preferences in the special remarks section when booking your ticket online.
Indian Railways will attempt to accommodate your request, and there is no extra charge for special meal requests as it is included in the ticket fare.
Tips for Passengers
Here are some tips and suggestions for passengers looking to enjoy the food and dining experience on Duronto Express:
- Bring along some personal food items like fruits, nuts, biscuits, chocolates, or energy bars in case you find the provided food unsatisfactory or experience hunger during the journey.
- Carry disposable plates, cups, spoons, and napkins, as the train may not offer enough or clean utensils. These can also be useful for packing food for later consumption or sharing with fellow passengers.
- Bring water bottles or flasks, as the train may not provide sufficient or clean drinking water. You can use them to make your own tea, coffee, or soup if you have the necessary ingredients and a heating device.
- Enhance the taste of the food by adding spices, sauces, or condiments like salt, pepper, ketchup, mustard, pickle, or chutney. You can carry these with you or purchase them from vendors at the stations.
- Explore local delicacies at different stops along the way. You might discover authentic and delicious regional cuisines, such as idli, dosa, vada, sambar, biryani, paratha, lassi, chaat, jalebi, and more. Seek recommendations from train staff or fellow passengers.
Conclusion
Duronto Express is one of the best trains of Indian Railways that offers a fast, comfortable, and safe journey.
The food and dining on Duronto Express can be a pleasant experience, depending on the class of travel, the type of train, and the personal preference of the passengers.
We encourage you to try the food and dining on Duronto Express and share your experiences and tips with us. Happy traveling and bon appetit!
FAQ
Can I change my meal preference in Duronto Express?
Changes to meal preferences are not allowed within 2 hours of the train’s scheduled arrival at the chosen station.
Cancellation is not permitted during the delivery of pre-ordered meals. Any alteration is contingent upon the cancellation of the previous booking.
Can I Cancel My Food Order on Duronto Express?
According to the Railways, is it possible to cancel a food order on board Duronto Express? Yes, you can cancel your food order, but a cancellation charge of Rs 100 per meal will apply. To cancel your order, you need to contact the catering staff or the train manager before the food is served.
However, if you have selected the “NO-FOOD” option during ticket booking, you cannot cancel your food order, as the food charges are not included in your fare. In such cases, you will be required to pay the full price of the food you ordered.
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