How to take general ticket online: Traveling by train is a convenient and economical way to explore new places. In many countries, some train journeys offer “general tickets,” which are unreserved tickets for specific routes. These tickets are perfect for short trips or situations where you’re flexible with seating arrangements.
This guide will walk you through the process of taking a general ticket online, focusing specifically on the Indian Railways’ Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS). However, the general principles can be applied to similar systems in other countries.
Understanding General Tickets
General tickets are different from reserved tickets in a few key ways:
- Seating: With a general ticket, you don’t have a designated seat. You find a seat on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Availability: General tickets are usually readily available, even on short notice, unlike reserved tickets that might sell out quickly.
- Validity: General tickets are typically valid only for the specific train and date for which they are booked. how to take general ticket online
Benefits of Booking General Tickets Online
There are several advantages to booking your general ticket online instead of purchasing it directly at the station:
- Convenience: Booking online saves you time and avoids queues at the station ticket counters.
- Flexibility: You can book your ticket anytime, anywhere, as long as there’s an internet connection.
- Real-time Availability: You can check the availability of general tickets for your desired train in real-time.
- Paperless Option: With some systems, you can choose a paperless ticket, which is stored on your mobile app and eliminates the need for a physical printout.
Prerequisites for Booking a General Ticket Online
Before you proceed, ensure you have the following:
- A Smartphone or Computer: You’ll need a device with internet access to access the online booking platform.
- A Valid Mobile Number: The platform will send a verification code (OTP) to your mobile number during registration and booking.
- Payment Method: You’ll need a debit or credit card, net banking access, or a mobile wallet to make the online payment.
Steps to Book a General Ticket Online (Using the Indian Railways UTS App as an Example)
1. Download and install the UTS app.
The Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) is a mobile app developed by the Indian Railways for booking unreserved tickets. Search for “UTS on Mobile” on the Google Play Store or App Store and download the app. how to take general ticket online
2. Register for a UTS account:
- Open the UTS app and click on “New User Registration.”
- Enter your mobile number, name, email address (optional), and password.
- You’ll receive an OTP on your mobile number. Enter the OTP to verify your registration.
3. Plan Your Journey:
- Once logged in, select the “Book Ticket” option on the main screen.
- Choose your origin and destination stations.
- Select the date of travel.
- The app will display the available trains for your chosen route and date.
4. Choose Your Ticket Type:
- Under “Ticket Type,” select “General Booking.”
- You can also choose “Platform Ticket” if you only need a platform ticket to access the station premises.
- Depending on the app’s functionality, you might have options for “normal booking” (one-way trip) or “return ticket” (round trip).
5. Select the number of passengers:
Enter the number of passengers traveling with you.
6. Review and confirm booking:
- Review your booking details, including the origin station, destination station, date of travel, number of passengers, and fare.
- Choose your preferred mode of ticket collection:
- Paperless ticket (available on some routes): The ticket will be stored on your UTS app. (GPS must be enabled.).
- Book and Print: You’ll receive a booking ID. Print the ticket from an Automatic Ticket Vending Machine (ATVM) or counters at the station before boarding.
- Select your preferred payment method and complete the payment process.
7. Receive confirmation and a ticket (if applicable):
- Upon successful booking, you’ll receive a confirmation message and details on your chosen ticket collection method.
- If you opted for a paperless ticket, the ticket will be accessible within the UTS app.
- For “Book and Print” bookings, collect your printed ticket from the station before boarding.
Additional Tips:
- Check Availability Early: General tickets can get booked quickly, especially during peak seasons. It’s advisable to book your ticket as early as possible.
- Carry a valid ID. While traveling with a general ticket, it’s recommended. how to take general ticket online