Train travel in India is not just about getting to your destination; it is also about having a comfortable journey with good food. IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) is the government body responsible for providing clean, affordable, and standard meals to passengers. IRCTC Food Price List pdf
Why This Price List Matters
IRCTC sets fixed prices for food to ensure passengers are treated fairly. Knowing this list helps you:
- Stop vendors from charging you too much.
- Ensure you get quality food.
- Understand that prices are the same across similar trains.
Station Price vs. On-Train Price
IRCTC has two price categories. It is helpful to know the difference:
- Station Price (Static): This is the price you pay at stalls on the railway platform.
- On-Train Price (Mobile): This is the price you pay when food is served to you at your seat inside the train.
- Note: On-train prices are slightly higher because of the service and transport costs.
Beverages (Tea, Coffee, Water)
These are the most common items bought on trains.
- Standard Tea (150 ml): ₹5 (Station) / ₹5 (Train)
- Tea with Tea Bag: ₹10 (Station) / ₹10 (Train)
- Instant Coffee: ₹10 (Station) / ₹10 (Train)
- Rail Neer Water (1 Litre): ₹15 (Station) / ₹15 (Train)
Janta Meal (Budget Option)
This is the most affordable meal option, designed for budget travelers.
- Menu: 7 Pooris, Potato (Aloo) Curry, and Pickle.
- Price: ₹15 (Station) / ₹20 (Train)
Breakfast Prices
These are usually served on morning trains.
Vegetarian Breakfast
- Menu: Bread & Butter, Cutlet, or Idli/Vada.
- Price: ₹35 (Station) / ₹40 (Train)
Non-Vegetarian Breakfast
- Menu: 2 Eggs, Bread & Butter.
- Price: ₹45 (Station) / ₹50 (Train)
Lunch and Dinner (Standard Meals)
These are the full meals available on most Express and Mail trains.
Standard Vegetarian Meal
- Menu: Rice, Dal, Vegetable Curry, Paratha, Curd.
- Price: ₹70 (Station) / ₹80 (Train)
Standard Egg Meal
- Menu: Rice, Dal, Egg Curry (2 eggs), Paratha.
- Price: ₹80 (Station) / ₹90 (Train)
Standard Chicken Meal
- Menu: Rice, Dal, Chicken Curry, Paratha.
- Price: ₹120 (Station) / ₹130 (Train)
Snacks and Light Meals
If you do not want a full meal, you can order individual items.
Snacks
- Samosa (2 pcs): ₹20
- Vada Pav (2 pcs): ₹30
- Idli with Sambar (2 pcs): ₹20
- Bread Pakora / Patties: ₹30
- Upma: ₹30
Biryani and Regional Food
- Veg Biryani: ₹80
- Egg Biryani: ₹90
- Chicken Biryani: ₹110
- Pav Bhaji / Noodles / Chole Bhature: ₹50
Food on Premium Trains (Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Vande Bharat)
On these trains, food cost is usually included in your ticket price. However, if you did not book food with your ticket and decide to buy it on the train, you will have to pay for the meal plus a ₹50 service charge.
Approximate Base Rates:
- Breakfast: ₹105 to ₹122
- Lunch/Dinner: ₹185 to ₹222
- Evening Tea: ₹66 to ₹90
Passenger Rights: What if You Are Overcharged?
If a vendor asks for more money than the prices listed above, or if they refuse to give you a bill, you have the right to complain.
- Rule: “No Bill, No Payment.” You should always insist on a bill.
- To Complain: Call 139 (Railway Helpline).