Travelling with a pet on Indian trains is possible, but it is far more limited than most people expect. Reports on the railway rules say dogs can travel in a dog box in the luggage van, or with the owner in an AC First Class or First Class coupe or cabin that is booked in full. Other classes are not allowed.

This guide pulls together two published accounts, an India TV News report from 2023 and a first hand guide on Citizen Matters from 2021. Neither is an official rulebook, and details can change by zone, so confirm with IRCTC or your station before you book.

Quick answer

  • Allowed: A dog box in the luggage van, or a fully booked AC First or First Class coupe or cabin.
  • Not allowed: AC 2 tier, AC 3 tier, AC Chair Car, Sleeper and Second Class.
  • Charges: Luggage rates, based on weight and distance.
  • Carry: Your ID, the ticket and the pet’s vaccination record.
  • Always confirm: Current rules with IRCTC or the station parcel office.

Where a pet can travel

There are two routes. The first is a dog box in the second class luggage or brake van, where the dog travels away from you. The India TV report says each train usually has one dog box, and it is first come, first served.

The second route is to travel with your pet in an AC First Class or First Class coupe (two berths) or cabin (four berths). For this, the report says you must book the whole coupe or cabin for your own use. Citizen Matters says the same, and adds that you should book both berths of the coupe, or all four of the cabin, even if you travel alone.

Which trains can carry pets

The report says mail and express trains can offer both options. Rajdhani trains offer AC First Class but no dog boxes. Shatabdi trains do not take dogs at all, since they have no AC First Class, First Class or dog box. If your route has several train choices, a direct train with an AC First coach is the simplest.

How booking works when travelling with a pet

For a coupe or cabin, Citizen Matters says you can book through the IRCTC website. The author also wrote to the zone’s Deputy Chief Commercial Manager to say she would travel with a pet. She was told the coupe or cabin would be allotted about four hours before departure, with an SMS notice. Procedures can differ, so ask your zone.

For a dog box, the India TV report says there is no advance booking. The dog is booked at the counter. It gives one hour before departure, while Citizen Matters advises reaching the parcel office at least three hours early. Plan for the longer time, since staff must check papers.

Documents and what staff check

At the parcel office, staff check the pet’s vaccination record, a copy of your Aadhaar and your train ticket, according to Citizen Matters. You then get a receipt, which you should keep with your other papers. Carry the latest vaccination record in print, not only on your phone.

Charges

Pets are treated as luggage. The India TV report says a dog box is charged at luggage rates for 30 kg, while an AC First or First Class booking with the owner is charged on a 60 kg basis. Citizen Matters says charges depend on distance and stay the same regardless of age, up to 60 kg. Neither source gives a rupee figure, so ask at the parcel office for the exact amount.

Care on the journey

The railways do not provide food for animals. The owner must arrange feeding. Citizen Matters advises a vet check before travel, plus food, bowls, a leash, pads, disposable bags and any medicines. It also says the dog must stay on a leash and not roam alone.

If you use the brake van, the dog travels there for the whole journey. Under Section 153 of the Indian Railways Act, as the guide notes, the railways are not responsible for loss or damage to animals once transit ends. Think carefully about whether your pet can handle a long ride.

A short checklist

First, pick a train with an AC First or First Class coach. Second, book the full coupe or cabin. Third, gather the vaccination record, ID and ticket. Fourth, reach the parcel office early. Finally, pack food, water and cleaning supplies for the trip. For other rail questions, see our guide to train ticket cancellation and refunds.

FAQ

Can I take my dog in AC 3 tier or Sleeper class?

No. Both reports say dogs are not allowed in AC 2 tier, AC 3 tier, AC Chair Car, Sleeper or Second Class coaches. The options are the dog box or a fully booked First Class coupe or cabin.

Can I book a dog box online?

The India TV report says there is no advance booking for dog boxes. The dog is booked at the counter before departure. Check with your station for current practice.

Do I need a vaccination certificate for travelling with a pet?

Citizen Matters says staff check the pet’s vaccination record at the parcel office. Carry the latest record in print. Ask the station if any other paper is needed.