Pet-friendly travel is surging in India, with approximately 11% of Indian travellers planning to include their pets on holidays.
It’s a total vibe shift, honestly. Your furry best friend is right there, tail thumping against the floor of the trains. If the plan involves heading to the coast or the mountains, grabbing cheap flight tickets is usually the go-to, but there’s something undeniably poetic about the rails. Taking pets on Vande Bharat trains isn’t just a dream anymore, but it does require a bit of “know-how.” Let’s look at the process step by step and know how to carry your companion on the trip.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The New Vibe of Rail Travel
For starters, the Vande Bharat pet policy is pretty specific – confirmed tickets are absolutely compulsory. If the status is stuck on RAC or the waiting list, the furry buddy stays home; there’s no wiggle room there. To have pets on Vande Bharat trains, booking a full 2-berth or 4-berth cabin in AC First Class is the golden rule.
Also Read: Fly With Your Four-Legged Friend: Top Pet-Friendly Airlines Around The World
Cruising in Comfort and Safety
Image Credit: Egor Gordeev/Unsplash
The rules and regulations on the Vande Bharat trains for pets ensure everyone stays happy. You’ll need the right documents for carrying pets on Vande Bharat. It includes up-to-date vaccination records and a fit-to-travel certificate from a vet. Keep in mind for those traveling with a whole pack, the rule is one pet per PNR, so plan bookings accordingly. Currently, this specialized pet setup is mostly a highlight of the sleeper routes. Ensure to always check if the facility is available or not before you pack..
For those looking to take their furry friends across borders, specialized online visa services for 180+ countries make international pet travel prep feel like a breeze!
Small Friends and Special Boxes
Image Credit: Nishaan ahmed/Unsplash
Wondering about the Vande Bharat pet box facility? Unlike the first-class cabins where they stay with you, these boxes are separate from the passenger cabins. They are located at both ends of the train. Learning how to book a pet box on Vande Bharat is an offline process.
One must visit the parcel or luggage office at the station. The charges of the pet box are generally based on weight, so it’s quite fair. Seeing pets on Vande Bharat trains nestled in a secure Vande Bharat pet box makes the whole trip feel way organized.
Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains in India
The journey doesn’t end when the train pulls into the station. Finding a place that welcomes both you and your furry companion can make the trip even more enjoyable. Several hotel brands across India now offer pet-friendly stays, giving pet parents more options than ever before.
From luxury resorts to boutique retreats, properties under brands such as Taj Hotels, IHCL SeleQtions, The Postcard Hotels, and Della Resorts have introduced pet-friendly experiences at select locations. Many of these stays provide open spaces, walking areas, and amenities designed to keep pets comfortable throughout the holiday.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
Make sure to reach the station at least 3 hours before the scheduled departure to handle the paperwork at the luggage office. Ultimately, pets on Vande Bharat trains represent a massive leap toward pet friendly travel in the country. Once you step off the train, finding the right online hotel booking for pet friendly hotels in India is the final piece of the puzzle. Travellers heading to Karnataka will also find several pet-friendly hotels in Bangalore, making it easier to plan a comfortable stay without leaving their furry companion behind.
Safe travels! See you on the platform!
Frequently Asked Questions- Pets On Vande Bharat Trains
Can you travel with a pet in Indian railway where the train does not have 1st AC?
Yes, but pets are usually allowed only in the luggage/brake van if the train does not have a 1st AC coupe.
Can my dog sit on my lap on a train?
Only in a private 1st AC coupe or cabin booked fully by you. Dogs are not allowed to sit with passengers in regular coaches.
Is a dog allowed in a 3rd AC train?
No, dogs are generally not permitted inside 3rd AC coaches with passengers.
Is there any information on pet travel policies for different airlines?
Pet travel policies vary by airline. Rules may differ based on pet size, carrier requirements, documentation, and travel routes. Always check the airline’s latest pet travel guidelines before booking.
What size dog can you take on a train?
Indian Railways does not officially mention a size limit, but small and large dogs both need proper booking and travel rules to be followed.
Can dogs travel in 2nd AC?
No, dogs are not allowed to travel inside 2nd AC coaches with passengers unless special permission is granted.
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