Know and Check Train PNR Status

Learn all about PNR status and why is it important.
Know and Check Train PNR Status
3 mins read
23 Feb 2024

PNR (Passenger Name Record) status is a travel-related term primarily used in the Indian railway industry. It is a unique 10-digit number that is allotted to every train ticket booked by passengers. The PNR number helps passengers check their booking status, which includes information about their journey date, boarding and destination station, and accommodation class, such as AC, sleeper, or general.

Moreover, the PNR status also helps in tracking ticket cancellations, waitlisted bookings, and refunds. It allows passengers to stay updated about their booking status and avoid any inconvenience during the journey.

How is a PNR number generated?

The Indian Railways generates PNR numbers automatically for every train ticket booked. The standard procedure involves a reservation clerk or a user entering passenger details into the reservation system of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Once the passenger details are verified and payment is made, the system generates a unique PNR number. This number is assigned to the passenger's ticket and remains the same throughout the journey.

The first three digits of the PNR number indicate the geographical location of the ticket booking center. The next seven digits represent the sequential number reference of the booking. Every passenger's booking is assigned a specific PNR number that acts as a reference number until the journey is completed.

PNR status prediction

The PNR number's importance lies in predicting the booking status, especially for waitlisted or RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) tickets. Passengers with waitlisted and RAC tickets can check their PNR status prediction to confirm their chances of getting a confirmed ticket before the journey. With the help of PNR prediction services, passengers can predict their chances of getting a confirmed ticket and make alternate travel arrangements, if required.

PNR predictions use historical travel data to assess the probability of getting a confirmed ticket based on previous trends and current real-time booking trends. Many private service providers and the Indian Railways offer PNR prediction services. Passengers can check the PNR status prediction on these websites or apps and plan their journey accordingly.

Ways to check IRCTC PNR status

Checking IRCTC PNR status is a crucial step for every train traveller. There are several ways to check PNR status and stay updated about the journey details. Here are some of the common methods for checking IRCTC PNR status:

  1. IRCTC PNR status enquiry: The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation website offers a dedicated PNR status enquiry portal. Passengers can enter their PNR number on the website and check their booking status. The website tracker is available 24x7, and passengers can access it from anywhere.

  2. Mobile application: The IRCTC mobile application is available for Android and iOS users. The app offers a simple user interface and an easy way to check PNR status. Passengers can enter their PNR number on the mobile application and stay updated about their journey.

  3. SMS service: The IRCTC also offers an SMS service to provide PNR status updates to passengers. Passengers can send an SMS with their PNR number to 139 from their registered mobile number. The service is free, and passengers receive real-time updates about their PNR status.

Importance of PNR status

PNR status is an essential element for every train traveller. It helps passengers stay updated about their booking status, and they can plan their journey accordingly. Here are some reasons why PNR status is important:

Confirmation: The PNR status confirms a passenger's booking status and journey details. It allows passengers to plan their journey and make necessary arrangements.

Waitlist position: Passengers with waitlisted or RAC tickets can check their PNR status to confirm their position. They can use PNR status prediction services to assess their chances of getting a confirmed ticket and make alternate travel plans if required.

Ticket cancellation: Passengers can cancel their tickets through the IRCTC website or nearby railway counters. The PNR status helps passengers keep track of their cancellation and refund status.

Refund status: The PNR status helps passengers stay updated about their refund status. They can check their refund details on the IRCTC website or through a service provider.

Why should you check PNR status using Bajaj Finserv?

Checking PNR status through Bajaj Finserv can be convenient for a few reasons:

  1. Integrated platform: Bajaj Finserv may offer a platform where you can not only check your PNR status but also access other financial services or travel-related services, providing a one-stop solution for your needs.
  2. Accessibility: It might offer easy accessibility through its website or mobile app, allowing you to check your PNR status anytime, anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection.
  3. Reliability: Bajaj Finserv is a well-established financial services company, so using their platform to check PNR status might offer reliability and trustworthiness in terms of service.

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Why should you check train status?

Arrival and Departure Times: Knowing the status of a train helps you plan your journey more effectively by providing accurate information about the train's expected arrival and departure times. This helps avoid unnecessary waiting at the station.

Delays and Cancellations: Train status alerts you to any delays or cancellations, allowing you to adjust your travel plans accordingly. You can avoid inconvenience by rescheduling your journey or seeking alternative transportation if necessary.

Connecting Journeys: If you have connecting trains or other travel arrangements, knowing the status of your train helps you manage your connections more efficiently. You can make informed decisions about potential changes to your itinerary.

Real-Time Updates: Checking train status provides real-time updates on the train's location, enabling you to track its progress along the route. This information is especially valuable if you're meeting someone at the station or arranging for transportation upon arrival.

Safety: Keeping track of train status contributes to passenger safety. Being aware of any disruptions or incidents allows you to take necessary precautions and make informed decisions to ensure your well-being during the journey.

PNR status full-forms and their meaning

CNF – Ticket confirmed.

CAN- Ticket cancelled.

WL- Waiting List.

RAC- Means Reservation Against Cancellation. This means that.

GNWL- It stands for General Waiting List. It is a type of waitlist quota.

PQWL- Pooled Quota Waiting List. The chances of getting confirmation for this status is quite low.

RLWL- Remote Location Waiting List. It is issued to travelers for an intermediate railway station.

TQWL- Tatkal Quota Waiting List and is issued for tatkal tickets.

NOSB- No Seat berth. This status is assigned to tickets that are booked for children between the age of 5 to 12. They can get on the train, but no seat is reserved for them.

Interesting facts about PNR enquiry

PNR full form: Passenger Name Record

Number of digits in PNR: 10

PNR validity period: The validity period of PNR number is 9 months

Disclaimer

1. Bajaj Finance Limited (“BFL”) is a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and Prepaid Payment Instrument Issuer offering financial services viz., loans, deposits, Bajaj Pay Wallet, Bajaj Pay UPI, bill payments and third-party wealth management products. The details mentioned in the respective product/ service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency with respect to the information referring to BFL products and services on this page.

2. All other information, such as, the images, facts, statistics etc. (“information”) that are in addition to the details mentioned in the BFL’s product/ service document and which are being displayed on this page only depicts the summary of the information sourced from the public domain. The said information is neither owned by BFL nor it is to the exclusive knowledge of BFL. There may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the said information. Hence, users are advised to independently exercise diligence by verifying complete information, including by consulting experts, if any. Users shall be the sole owner of the decision taken, if any, about suitability of the same.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the PNR number printed on a train ticket?

The PNR number is printed on the upper-left-hand side of a train ticket.

What are the benefits of a PNR number?

Food can be ordered to your seat by providing your PNR number. Rooms and dorms can be reserved at discounted rates at railway stations.

How can I check my PNR status?

To check your PNR status, you can visit the Indian Railway Passenger Reservation Enquiry website and enter your 10-digit PNR number, which is located on the top left corner of your ticket. The website will then display your current booking status.

What information is included in PNR details?

PNR (Passenger Name Record) details encompass various information such as the train's name and number, boarding date, class of travel, origin and destination stations, boarding station, reservation up-to date, number of passengers, coach position (if available), total fare, chart status (whether prepared or not), and train running status, including booking and status.

Can I check PNR status with a passenger's name?

Unfortunately, you cannot directly check PNR status using a passenger's name. You will need the 10-digit PNR number associated with the booking.

Is it possible for a PNR to get confirmed?

Yes, PNR status can change over time. Initially, it might be in the waiting list (WL) or reservation against cancellation (RAC) status. However, as the train departure date approaches, seats may become available due to cancellations, potentially resulting in a confirmed PNR status. It is advisable to keep checking your PNR status for any updates.