🚆 How to Check IRCTC PNR Status Online – Complete Guide
If you're planning a train journey in India, one of the first things you need to know is the PNR status of your train ticket. Whether you’ve booked a confirmed seat or are waitlisted, checking your PNR status helps you stay updated on your journey. In this guide, we’ll explore how to check PNR status online, understand what each code means, and the best platforms to use for live updates.
📌 What is a PNR Number?
PNR stands for Passenger Name Record.
- It is a unique 10-digit number assigned to every train ticket booked via IRCTC or counter.
- It stores all information related to your train journey: passenger details, seat/berth, train number, and travel date.
✅ How to Check PNR Status Online
Here are the best ways to check your PNR status online:
- Via IRCTC Website
Visit irctc.co.in → Go to “PNR Enquiry” → Enter your 10-digit PNR number → Click on "Get Status" - Using Train Travel Apps
NTES App, IRCTC Rail Connect App, ConfirmTkt, Where is my Train App - Via SMS
Type:PNR <your 10-digit number>→ Send to: 139 or 5676747 - On Google Search
Simply search:PNR status <your number>→ Google shows live results from Indian Railways data
📊 PNR Status Codes Explained
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CNF | Confirmed |
| RAC | Reservation Against Cancellation |
| WL | Waitlisted |
| GNWL | General Waitlist |
| TQWL | Tatkal Waitlist |
🧠 Tips for Interpreting PNR
- CNF: Seat is allotted; check coach and berth number
- RAC: Shared berth guaranteed; not a full berth
- WL: Ticket not confirmed, not valid for travel
- Chart Prepared: Final seat allocations done before train departs
🕓 When is the Final Chart Prepared?
- First chart: 4 hours before departure
- Final chart: 30 minutes before train departure
- If your ticket is still WL after charting, it gets canceled automatically (if booked via IRCTC)
🔄 How Often Should You Check?
- 1–2 days before the journey
- On the day of the journey
- After chart preparation
📥 Bookmark-worthy PNR Check Links:
🔗 Related Posts You Can Explore:
- How to Interpret Your PNR Code in Simple Terms
- How to Check PNR on Mobile Without Internet
- PNR FAQs: All You Need to Know
✨ Final Thoughts
Your PNR number is your golden ticket to train travel clarity! Whether you're waiting for a confirmation or want to know your coach and seat, make checking your PNR a habit. Bookmark this guide and share it with fellow travelers to help them too.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) means you have a partial confirmed berth, shared with another passenger. WL (Waitlist) means no berth has been allotted yet, and you need to wait for cancellations.
You can send an SMS with your PNR number to 139 or use apps like IRCTC Rail Connect that send real-time push notifications about your ticket status.
If your ticket remains waitlisted after the final chart is prepared, it will be automatically canceled, and the fare refunded if booked online.