Stories
Traveling for Chhath-Diwali? Know These 10 Unwritten Rules of Train Travel
- •Train travel is more than just reaching your destination; it involves following unwritten rules.
- •A window seat is a treasure, often leading to discussions among passengers.
- •The bond of trust, like 'Bhai Sahab, please watch my seat,' is common among strangers.
- •The sound of 'Chai... Chai...' is integral to train travel; keep loose change ready.
- •A reserved berth can become a social hub, but be mindful of others' comfort.
- •Changing berths is a favor, not a right; ask politely and respect refusals.
- •Always keep an eye on your luggage, securing it and adhering to railway rules.
- •Share charging points, allowing everyone a turn rather than occupying it for long.
- •Keep volume low at night and use headphones to avoid disturbing co-passengers.
- •Sharing food is a tradition, but always ask before taking someone else's food.
Key Questions Answered
A window seat is often discussed among passengers, and someone might politely ask to share it for a short while; it is best to resolve this through conversation rather than demands. Similarly, changing berths for elderly or family convenience is a favor rather than a right, so you should ask politely and accept a refusal without argument.
Experienced travelers commonly keep their luggage securely tied or placed under the seat where it can be monitored, keeping railway baggage provisions in mind. Regarding charging sockets, it is considered polite courtesy to use them in turns rather than letting one passenger occupy the point for a long time, especially during night journeys.
When buying tea from vendors, regular passengers keep loose change ready and avoid blocking the aisle. At night, it is important to keep the volume low, use headphones, and avoid talking loudly on the phone or playing videos to prevent disturbing nearby passengers who are trying to sleep.
