IRCTC collaborates with banks such as SBI, BoB, HDFC, and RBL to provide co-branded credit cards featuring rewards on train bookings, lounge access, and fee waivers…
For frequent railway passengers, purchasing a train ticket can now include additional perks. IRCTC, in partnership with various banks and card issuers, presents co-branded credit cards allowing users to earn reward points on train bookings and redeem them for future purchases. (Image source: AI generated)
These cards blend typical credit card features with travel-centric benefits like rewards for ticket bookings, transaction fee waivers, and lounge access. The partners for IRCTC’s co-branded cards include SBI Cards, Bank of Baroda, HDFC Bank, and RBL Bank. (Image source: AI generated)
IRCTC RBL Bank Credit Card | Tailored for frequent IRCTC users, this credit card rewards spending across railway and travel-related categories. It comes with a joining and renewal fee of ₹500, along with a welcome offer of 500 reward points. Users can earn five reward points for every ₹200 spent on the IRCTC website and Rail Connect app. The card also rewards FASTag recharge, NCMC reloads, UTS app transactions, and IRCTC flight, hotel, and cruise bookings. Cardholders receive a 1% transaction charge waiver on IRCTC train bookings, plus up to eight complimentary visits to select IRCTC Executive Lounges per year. Additionally, it offers train cancellation protection of up to ₹5,000. (Image source: IRCTC website)
IRCTC SBI Card | This card is designed for those seeking a simple railway-focused credit card with annual benefits. It has a joining fee of ₹500 and a renewal fee of ₹300, along with 350 bonus reward points upon card activation. Users can earn up to 10 reward points for every ₹100 spent on IRCTC ticket bookings, and one reward point for every ₹125 spent elsewhere. It also includes a 1% transaction charge waiver and four complimentary railway lounge visits each year, with identical benefits available for the RuPay variant. (Image source: IRCTC website)
IRCTC SBI Card Premier | Targeted at those seeking premium rewards, this card offers enhanced benefits for travel. With a joining cost of ₹1,499, it provides 1,500 bonus reward points upon signup. Users can earn 10 reward points for every ₹100 spent on IRCTC tickets and five reward points for every ₹100 on airline tickets and e-catering. The card also rewards dining and utility expenses, along with a 1% transaction charge waiver on rail and air bookings. Premium members receive eight complimentary railway lounge visits annually, capped at two per quarter. (Image source: IRCTC website)
IRCTC Bank of Baroda Card | This card rewards users for railway ticket spending. With a joining fee of ₹500 and a renewal fee of ₹350, newcomers receive 500 bonus reward points. Users can earn up to 40 BOBCARD points for every ₹100 spent on IRCTC bookings, in addition to earning rewards on other purchases. It also includes a 1% transaction charge waiver for railway bookings and provides up to four complimentary lounge visits each year. (Image source: IRCTC website)
IRCTC HDFC Bank Card | This credit card features a straightforward rewards structure tailored for regular train travellers. With a joining fee of ₹500, it also includes a ₹500 welcome voucher. Cardholders earn five reward points for every ₹100 spent on IRCTC ticket bookings and one reward point for every ₹100 spent elsewhere. It comes with a 1% transaction charge waiver on IRCTC bookings and offers up to eight complimentary visits to select IRCTC Executive Lounges each year. (Image source: IRCTC website)
Which IRCTC card should travellers opt for? Selecting the right card is determined by how frequently one travels by train and their expenditure on railway bookings. Frequent IRCTC users may find cards with higher ticket booking rewards beneficial, while occasional travellers often prefer lower annual fees alongside relevant travel advantages. It’s wise to assess joining and renewal costs, reward redemption requirements, lounge access allowances, and additional terms before choosing. For regular train users, these co-branded cards provide added value to everyday trips by transforming ticket payments into rewards. Using the card sensibly and paying monthly dues promptly maximizes benefits. (Image source: AI generated)
For regular train travellers, these co-branded cards can enhance daily journeys by turning ticket payments into rewards. However, benefits are maximized when the card is managed responsibly and dues are paid on time. (Image source: AI generated)