Train Travel Food Hacks: How to Order Delicious Meals on Indian Railways Like a Pro

 Let’s face it — no one wants cold samosas or mystery curries on a long train ride. Luckily, train travel in India has leveled up, and you can now eat fresh, tasty meals right at your seat — if you know how.

Whether you're in sleeper class or zooming in Vande Bharat, here’s how to hack your hunger like a pro on the go.

First, Know Your Food Options (Based on Train Type)

Premium trains (Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Vande Bharat):

Sit back, relax — food’s included! You’ll be served full meals based on your journey time.

Regular express trains:

No free food? No problem. Use smart apps to order hot meals at upcoming stations.

Onboard vendors: 

Great for chai, snacks, or emergency munchies. But always check hygiene and packaging.

Old-school trick: 

Home-cooked food or ready-to-eat packs still work great, especially for overnight journeys.

 Be Smart: Use These 3 Easy Ways to Order Train Food

1. IRCTC eCatering – The Official Way (and the Easiest)  

This is the safest and smoothest method.

Here’s what to do:

- Go to ecatering.irctc.co.in or download the app  

- Enter your PNR number 

- Pick a station where the train stops  

- Select your meal and pay online or choose cash on delivery  

- Boom — your food is delivered right to your seat

Pro tip: Order 30–45 mins before the station for guaranteed delivery.

2. Swiggy/Zomato – It Can Work (If You’re Quick) 

These food apps aren’t made for trains but can save the day at major stations.

Be smart:

- Use ixigo or NTES to track your train  

- When approaching a big city (like Nagpur, Bhopal, etc.), order to the station address  

- Call the delivery guy and meet him at the platform gate

⚠️ Only use if your train halts for 10+ minutes.

3. Try These Train-Specific Food Apps 

These apps partner with IRCTC-approved kitchens and deliver food directly to your coach:

- Zoop India 

- RailRestro  

- Railyatri Food

Just enter your PNR, choose a delivery station, pick your meal, and get hot food delivered on time.

Smart Travel Tips for Hungry Passengers

- Always order 30–45 mins in advance  

- Double-check your seat and coach number  

- Use trusted apps only — no shady platforms!  

-  Go prepaid to avoid cash issues during delivery

-  Clean hands = happy stomach — carry sanitizer or wet wipes  

Don’t just survive your train ride — enjoy it like a pro.  

Stay full, stay smart, and keep exploring India the Backpackers247 way!