Guide
Single vs double vs dormitory — choosing a retiring room
How retiring room types differ, what each costs, and who they're best suited for.
Updated 2026-02-15
IRCTC retiring rooms come in three occupancy types, each available in AC and non-AC variants at most major stations. The choice mostly comes down to budget, party size, and tolerance for shared space.
Single rooms
A private room with one bed, intended for solo travellers. Typically the most peaceful option, but also the scarcest — single rooms tend to be booked out first, especially at major junctions during peak season.
- Typical tariff: ₹350–₹900 per 12-hour slot, depending on station and AC option
- Best for: business travellers, solo women, anyone wanting privacy
- Watch out for: limited availability; book as early as possible
Double rooms
A private room with two beds (or one double bed at some stations). Bookable by one or two passengers on the same PNR.
- Typical tariff: ₹420–₹1,300 per slot
- Best for: couples, two colleagues travelling together, families with one child
- Watch out for: a single passenger booking a double room still pays the full double tariff
Dormitory beds
Shared accommodation with multiple beds in one large room, usually 6–12 beds. Each bed is booked individually. AC and non-AC dormitories exist at most major stations.
- Typical tariff: ₹120–₹350 per bed per slot — the cheapest option
- Best for: backpackers, budget travellers, anyone just needing a few hours' sleep
- Watch out for: shared bathrooms, ambient noise, varying cleanliness standards by station
How to pick
If you're alone and the price difference is under ₹300, take the single. If you're two people and have any flexibility, the double almost always beats two dormitory beds on comfort. The dormitory is unbeatable for a 3–6 hour layover when you just want a horizontal surface and a fan.