How to Order Restaurant Food in Train to Your Berth: IRCTC eCatering & WhatsApp Guide
Tired of standard railway pantry car meals? You can now order fresh, piping hot food from brands like Domino's, Haldiram's, Subway, and local station restaurants delivered directly to your berth using your 10-digit PNR.
1. How IRCTC eCatering (Food on Track) Works
IRCTC eCatering operates a nationwide food delivery network across more than 400 major railway stations in India.
Instead of waiting for station vendors on the platform, delivery executives bring restaurant-packaged food directly inside your coach and hand it to you at your seat during the scheduled train halt.
- Over 1,000+ certified FSSAI restaurant partners.
- Top brands available: Domino's Pizza, Haldiram's, Bikanervala, Subway, Behrouz Biryani, Faasos, and KFC.
- Strict hygiene standards with contactless delivery.
2. The Easiest Way: Order via IRCTC Official WhatsApp Bot
You don't even need to download an application! Indian Railways operates an AI-powered WhatsApp delivery service for train passengers.
- Step 1: Save the official IRCTC eCatering WhatsApp number: +91 8750001323.
- Step 2: Send a message "Hi" on WhatsApp.
- Step 3: The bot will ask for your 10-digit PNR number. Type your PNR.
- Step 4: The bot will display the upcoming stations along your train route and available restaurant menus.
- Step 5: Pick your dishes, choose Cash on Delivery (COD) or UPI, and confirm your seat delivery.
3. Payment Modes & Delivery Tracking
You can pay online via UPI, debit card, or choose Cash on Delivery (COD) when the delivery boy arrives at your coach.
When your train approaches the junction, you will receive an SMS and WhatsApp alert containing the delivery person's name and mobile number. They will walk to your coach (e.g. B3) and hand the food directly to your berth number.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my food order if the train is delayed?
The IRCTC eCatering system is integrated in real-time with NTES (National Train Enquiry System). If your train is running delayed by 2 hours, the restaurant automatically adjusts food preparation to match the actual live train arrival time at the station.
Can I order pure vegetarian or Jain food on the train?
Yes! IRCTC eCatering allows filtering specifically for "Pure Veg" and "Jain Meals" (prepared without onion and garlic in separate dedicated vegetarian kitchens).
Is there any extra delivery fee for delivery to the train seat?
No extra platform entry surcharge is charged to the passenger. The menu price displayed on the app or WhatsApp is the final price delivered to your berth.