Retiring Room at New Delhi Railway Station

What is a Retiring Room?

A retiring room is a special type of lodging facility run by Indian Railways inside railway stations for the use of passengers holding a valid train ticket. Unlike hotels outside the station, retiring rooms are meant only for short-term stays and are booked for hours rather than days.

Travelers use retiring rooms for:

• Taking rest between connecting trains.
• Overnight stays when arriving late or before an early morning departure.
• A secure place to freshen up and relax during long journeys.
• Budget stays in the city center directly inside the railway premises.

Location at New Delhi Railway Station

New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), one of the busiest railway hubs in India, has retiring rooms located on multiple platforms. These facilities are easily accessible after ticket and identity verification. The main retiring rooms can be found near Platforms 1, 16, and 18, with clearly marked signage to guide passengers.

Being situated within the station premises, travelers do not have to step outside in search of lodging, which makes it particularly useful for women, elderly passengers, and those traveling with heavy luggage.

Types of Retiring Rooms Available

At New Delhi Railway Station, passengers can choose from different types of accommodation depending on budget and comfort preferences:

• Single Rooms: Ideal for solo travelers who want privacy.
• Double Rooms: Suitable for couples or two passengers traveling together.
• Dormitory Beds: Shared accommodation with bunk beds, offered at a very economical price per person.
• AC and Non-AC Rooms: Budget-conscious travelers can save with non-AC options, while those looking for comfort can opt for AC rooms.
• Deluxe Rooms (Limited availability): Equipped with better furnishings and bathrooms for travelers willing to pay slightly extra.

Facilities Provided

The retiring rooms at New Delhi Railway Station are designed to provide all essential amenities for a comfortable short stay. Facilities typically include:

• Clean beds with fresh linens.
• Attached bathrooms in single/double rooms, while dormitories have common bathrooms.
• Air-conditioning or fans depending on the type of room booked.
• Hot water and running water supply.
• Basic furniture like a chair, table, and wardrobe.
• Drinking water facilities.
• Room service and basic housekeeping.
• CCTV security and station police presence for safety.
• Proximity to food stalls, IRCTC-run restaurants, and waiting rooms.

Though they are simpler than hotels, retiring rooms are surprisingly well-maintained and hygienic considering their affordability.

Booking Process

Booking a retiring room is very straightforward. Passengers with a confirmed or RAC train ticket can reserve rooms in the following ways:

1. Online Booking via IRCTC:

• Visit the IRCTC website or app.
• Go to the “Retiring Room” booking option.
• Enter your PNR number (must be from a confirmed ticket).
• Select check-in/check-out time.
• Choose type of room/dormitory.
• Pay online to confirm booking.

2. On-the-Spot Booking:

• Walk into the retiring room booking counter at New Delhi Station.
• Provide your ticket and valid ID proof.
• Based on availability, book the room for the required duration.

Duration and Charges

The charges for retiring rooms vary based on the room type and duration of stay. Typically, rooms are booked in slots of 12 hours or 24 hours.

Approximate pricing at New Delhi Railway Station:

• Dormitory bed: Rs. 150–250 per 12 hours.
• Single Non-AC room: Rs. 300–500 per 12 hours.
• Single AC room: Rs. 600–900 per 12 hours.
• Double room (AC): Rs. 800–1500 per 12 hours.

Pricing may vary depending on the train season, demand, and whether the booking is made online or at the counter.

Advantages of Retiring Rooms

There are several advantages of choosing a retiring room over hotels outside the station:

• Affordable: Much cheaper than most hotels in the Paharganj or Connaught Place area near NDLS.
• Convenient Location: Located inside the station premises, eliminating the hassle of commuting.
• Safe: Run and monitored by Indian Railways, ensuring security.
• Flexible Duration: Unlike hotels, you can book only for 12 or 24 hours.
• Ideal for Transit Travelers: Perfect for those with connecting trains or flights from New Delhi.

Who Can Use Retiring Rooms?

• Only passengers with a valid and confirmed railway ticket (past, present, or future within 48 hours) are eligible.
• Rooms can be booked for short stays only, not as long-term accommodation.
• Both Indian and foreign travelers can avail them with proper ID proof.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Always carry a valid government ID proof along with a train ticket.
• Book in advance during peak travel seasons as retiring rooms fill up quickly.
• Rooms are strictly non-transferable and can be used only by the passenger in whose name booking has been made.
• For group travel, double rooms or dormitory bookings are better options.
• While cooking is not allowed, IRCTC food counters and delivery services make meals easily available nearby.

Retiring Rooms vs. Nearby Hotels

Unlike hotels near the station, which may charge significantly higher rates even for a few hours, retiring rooms offer a guaranteed safe and affordable stay. However, hotels outside may provide more luxurious services such as 24/7 room service, larger rooms, and Wi-Fi—features usually absent in retiring rooms. For budget-friendly, short-duration stays, retiring rooms remain unmatched.

Conclusion

The retiring rooms at New Delhi Railway Station are a practical solution for passengers who want comfort and affordability without leaving the railway premises. Whether it is an overnight halt, a few hours between connecting trains, or just a place to freshen up, these facilities save time and money for countless travelers. With online booking available through IRCTC, securing a room has become easy and reliable.