Current Booking = post-chart-preparation booking on vacant seats.
How it works:
- After chart is prepared (~3-4 hours before departure), any vacant seats are made available.
- You can book these directly at the station counter or via IRCTC's "Current" booking option.
- Booking closes ~30 minutes before train departure from origin.
Where seats come from:
- Cancellations after chart prep
- Tatkal seats not booked
- Quota cancellations
Tips:
- Often available on long-distance trains with high cancellation
- Premium trains rarely have current seats
- Counter booking faster than online for same-day travel
Charge: Normal fare; no extra charge.