“Can I Take My Dog on a Train in India?” – Here’s the Real Process (2026)

Share now !

Pets are only allowed in First Class AC (1AC) compartments.
For better comfort and a higher chance of getting a coupe (2-seater private cabin), it’s advisable to:
- Book an additional ticket** if you’re traveling alone (this counts as two passengers).
- While booking, request for a coupe — though allocation is not guaranteed and depends on availability and other factors.
Seat allotments for 1AC are done after the chart is prepared.

Visit the Indian Railways Parcel Booking website: https://parcel.indianrail.gov.in/LTBook/
Enter your PNR number while booking your pet’s ticket.
Charges vary according to the weight of the pet.
Keep the following documents ready (and carry 2 xerox copies of each):
- Government ID proof
- Pet’s Anti-Rabies vaccination certificate
- Fit-to-travel certificate from a registered vet
- Pet ticket printout
Alternatively, you can complete this process offline at the railway station 4 hours before departure (see Step 6).

Visit the Chief Reservation Officer (CRO) of your boarding station.
Submit a written request asking for a coupe allotment since you are traveling with your pet.
Include the following details in your application:
- Your full name
- PNR number
- Train name and number
- Boarding and destination station
Attach xerox copies of:
- Your pet’s Anti-Rabies certificate
- Fit-to-travel certificate
If your boarding station is different from the originating station, e.g., your train starts from Jodhpur but you board at Pune — visit the CRO at Pune. The officer there can help you fax your request to Jodhpur.

Visit a licensed veterinarian to obtain:
- Updated vaccination certificate
- Fit-to-travel certificate (valid for 48 hours)

You’ll receive an SMS from IRCTC confirming your coach and seat number.
This will indicate whether you’ve been allotted a coupe (2-berth private cabin) or a cabin (4-berth shared enclosure).

Arrive at the station at least 4 hours before train departure.
Go to the luggage booking counter to register your pet as luggage.
Present:
- Anti-Rabies certificate
- Fit-to-travel certificate
- ID proof
- Your ticket and seat details (by now, you’ll know your seat allotment)
Fill out the required form and pay applicable charges.
Ensure your pet is on a leash and harness or inside a secure carrier.
Carry 2 xerox copies of all documents for submission.

Board the train as usual with your pet.
Keep your pet comfortable and hydrated during the journey.
Be considerate — if you’ve been allotted a shared cabin (4-berth), and any co-passenger objects to the pet’s presence, the Ticket Collector (TC) has the right to ask you to move your pet elsewhere.
- This is rare but possible, so it’s best to secure a coupe when possible.

Coupes are usually allotted to:
- Couples, VIPs, or senior citizens
- Passengers traveling in pairs (hence, two tickets)
Having an extra ticket improves your chances of being allotted a private coupe, making the journey more comfortable for both you and your pet.