Indian Railways offers a 20% return fare rebate on round trip bookings during the festive season of 2025. Bookings start on August 14.
Overview
Indian Railways has introduced a special Round Trip Package scheme for the 2025 festive season, providing a 20% rebate on the return journey’s base fare. The initiative aims to manage festive rush, encourage advance planning, and optimize train utilization.
Key Features of the Round Trip Package Scheme
- Applicable for Same Passengers Both Ways: The return journey must be booked for the same passengers as the onward journey.
Booking Timeline
- Onward Journey: October 13–26, 2025.
- Return Journey: November 17–December 1, 2025.
- Advance Reservation Period (ARP): Not applicable for the return journey under this scheme.
Discount Structure
- 20% rebate: Valid on the base fare of the return journey only.
Eligibility & Conditions
- Confirmed tickets: Required for both onward and return journeys.
- Class & O-D Pair: Must be the same for both journeys.
- Valid for: All classes and trains (excluding Flexi fare trains).
- Refunds & Modifications: Not allowed for tickets under this scheme.
Booking Mode
- Online: Via IRCTC website/app.
- Reservation counters.
Exclusions
- Not applicable: For concession tickets, passes, vouchers, etc.
- No additional fare: Will be collected during charting for these PNRs.
Objective of the Scheme
- Avoid last-minute rush: During festival travel.
- Encourage advance planning: By offering financial incentives.
- Optimize train utilization: Including return journeys post-festive dates.
- Manage crowd distribution: Across a longer time window.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Indian Railways offers a 20% return fare rebate for round trip bookings during the 2025 festive season.
- The scheme aims to ease festival rush, promote advance planning, and optimize train usage.
- Passengers must book the return journey for the same set of passengers as the onward journey.
- Bookings open on August 14, 2025, for onward journeys between October 13–26, 2025.
- Ensure eligibility criteria and booking details match the requirements to avail of the rebate.
