Cheapest AC Train Routes in India: Your Budget Travel Guide for 2025
Introduction
If you’re on the lookout for the cheapest AC train routes in India for 2025 , you’ve come to the right place. India’s rail network offers countless ways for travelers to enjoy affordable journeys— And yes, it’s completely pocket-friendly even with AC!
In 2025, IRCTC is rolling out several new AC coaches and budget-friendly routes, making AC travel even more accessible for those on a budget.
In this guide, we dive into:
- Affordable AC routes
- Ticket prices
- Train timings
- Top trains
- Links to detailed guides
- FAQs
Top 10 Cheapest AC Train Routes in India (2025)
1. Delhi → Jaipur (AC Chair Car)
Fare: ₹350–₹550
Best Trains: Ajmer Shatabdi, Double Decker
Time: 4–5 hours
2. Mumbai → Surat (3AC)
Fare: ₹450–₹650
Best Trains: Gujarat Superfast, Flying Ranee
Time: 3.5 hours
3. Kolkata → Patna (3AC)
Fare: ₹500–₹800
Best Trains: Jan Shatabdi, Patliputra Express
Time: 8–9 hours
4. Chennai → Bengaluru (AC Chair Car)
Fare: ₹360–₹620
Best Trains: Shatabdi, Double Decker
Time: 5 hours
5. Lucknow → Delhi (3AC/CC)
CC Fare: ₹450–₹750
3AC Fare: ₹780–₹1100
Best Trains: Lucknow Mail, Tejas Express
6. Hyderabad → Vijayawada (3AC)
Fare: ₹550–₹900
Best Train: Satavahana Express
Time: 5–6 hours
7. Ernakulam → Bengaluru (3AC)
Fare: ₹650–₹950
Time: 9–10 hours
Details:Ernakulam–Bengaluru Timings & Route
8. Jaipur → Agra (AC CC)
Fare: ₹330–₹500
Time: 3.5 hours
9. Guwahati → Silchar (3AC)
Fare: ₹450–₹750
Train: Kanchenjunga Express
Time: 7 hours
10. Pune → Mumbai (AC CC / 3AC)
CC Fare: ₹320–₹450
3AC Fare: ₹550–₹750
Best: Deccan Queen, Pragati Express
Why Are These Routes So Affordable?
- Short to medium distances
- Stable pricing set by the government
- High availability of coaches
- More 3AC coaches introduced
- No premium dynamic pricing
Estimated AC Ticket Prices (2025)
| Route | AC Type | Fare (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi–Jaipur | AC CC | 350–550 |
| Mumbai–Surat | 3AC | 450–650 |
| Kolkata–Patna | 3AC | 500–800 |
| Chennai–Bengaluru | AC CC | 360–620 |
| Lucknow–Delhi | AC CC | 450–750 |
| Ernakulam–Bengaluru | 3AC | 650–950 |
Useful Links
New Express Train Routes 2025
Top Railway Stations in India
Train360 Home
IRCTC Tatkal Automation Tool
Railway Food Price List 2025–26
External Resources
Indian Railways – Wikipedia
IRCTC Official Website
Best Budget AC Trains (2025)
- Jan Shatabdi (3AC/CC)
- Intercity Superfast AC
- Double Decker AC
- Holiday Special AC
Geo-Optimized Affordable Routes
North India
- Delhi–Jaipur
- Lucknow–Delhi
- Chandigarh–Delhi
South India
- Chennai–Bengaluru
- Ernakulam–Bengaluru
- Hyderabad–Vijayawada
West India
- Mumbai–Surat
- Pune–Mumbai
- Ahmedabad–Surat
East India
- Kolkata–Patna
- Bhubaneswar–Cuttack
- Siliguri–Kolkata
Frequently Asked Questions – Cheapest AC Trains 2025
1. What’s the cheapest AC train route in India for 2025?
The Delhi–Jaipur AC Chair Car route has fares starting at ₹350.
2. Is 3AC or AC Chair Car more affordable?
AC Chair Car is usually cheaper for short distances; 3AC tends to be better for overnight journeys.
3. Which long-distance AC route is the least expensive?
Both Ernakulam–Bengaluru and Mumbai–Surat are among the cheapest long-distance AC routes.
4. Is AC travel safe in 2025?
Absolutely! Upgraded AC coaches, cleaner facilities, and improved security have made travel safer.
