How to Order Food on a Train with Cash on Delivery

Travelling by train in India has always been a mix of excitement and hunger pangs. You stare out the window at passing landscapes, and your stomach starts growling. Good news, you no longer have to survive on chips and biscuits. IRCTC eCatering lets you order hot, fresh food right on your train journeys. And the best part? You can pay cash on delivery. No UPI, no card, no stress.

What is IRCTC eCatering?

IRCTC eCatering, operated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), is a food ordering service that allows train passengers to order meals from a wide range of restaurants and food outlets along their train route. The service enables passengers to have their chosen food delivered to them when the train reaches the selected delivery station.

Passengers can place orders through the IRCTC eCatering website, the Food on Track mobile app, WhatsApp number +91-8750001323 or the 1323 call centre. The platform also integrates with partner apps and websites, giving passengers multiple ways to access the service.

With a network covering 400+ railway stations, IRCTC eCatering offers a variety of cuisines and dishes, including regional favourites, popular meals and options from recognised food brands. This makes it easier for passengers to enjoy greater choice during their journey without having to leave the train to purchase food.

Why choose cash on delivery?

Not everyone is comfortable paying online, and that is perfectly fine. Cash on delivery (COD) is available on the eCatering platform for exactly this reason.

Here is why many travellers prefer it:

• No need to share card or UPI details on the go
• Works even if your mobile data is slow or patchy
• Great for senior travellers or first-time eCatering users
• You pay only after you receive your food

How to order food on a train with cash on delivery – Step by step

Follow these simple steps and your food will reach you before you know it.

Step 1: Visit the IRCTC eCatering website or Food on Track app

Go to the eCatering website on your browser or download the Food on the Track app from the Play Store or App Store. If you prefer not to order online, simply call 1323 to place your food order with the help of an IRCTC eCatering representative.

Step 2: Enter your PNR number

Type your 10-digit PNR number in the search box. The system automatically fetches your train details, your route, your seat, and the stations where food delivery is available. Keep your ticket handy before you start.

Step 3: Select your delivery station

The platform shows you a list of upcoming stations where eCatering is active. Pick the station you want your food delivered to. Make sure you choose a station with enough time, ideally one that is at least an hour away, so your order can be prepared and delivered on time.

Step 4: Browse restaurants and choose your meal

You will see a list of restaurants available at your selected station. Browse through the menus, check ratings, and select your meal. You can order biryani, thali, sandwiches, snacks, or even branded fast food, depending on what is available at that station.

Step 5: Add to cart and proceed to checkout

Add your chosen items to the cart. Review your order once, then click on Proceed to Pay.

Step 6: Select cash on delivery as the payment method

On the payment page, you will see multiple options: credit/debit card, UPI, net banking, and Cash on Delivery. Select Cash on Delivery (COD). Then place your order.

Step 7: Receive your food and pay

You will get an SMS confirmation with your order details. When your train arrives at the selected station, the delivery executive will come to your coach. Hand over the exact cash amount and enjoy your meal!

Handy tips before you order

• Order at least 2 hours before your delivery station
• Keep your phone on, the delivery agent may call you
• Keep exact change ready to make the handover quick

Enjoy every bite, every mile

Ordering food on the train with cash on delivery is simple, safe, and convenient. IRCTC eCatering covers hundreds of stations across India, so you are rarely far from a good meal. Whether you crave a hearty lunch or a light evening snack, eCatering brings the restaurant to you, right at your chosen station. So the next time you board a long-distance train, open eCatering, enter your PNR, and let the food come to you.