Railway Food Price List 2025-26 (Updated): IRCTC Menu, Standard Meal Rates & What to Expect on Trains

Quick Railway Food Price Snapshot (2025-26)

Note: Prices may vary slightly based on train type and region. Check the IRCTC official menu for the latest updates.

Introduction – Why Knowing the Railway Food Price List Matters

Train journeys in India offer stories, beautiful views, and tasty food. Meals served during travel, from a hot cup of tea to a complete thali, make the journey more enjoyable. With the 2025 updates to IRCTC catering, knowing the railway food price list 2025-26 helps travelers avoid overcharging and enjoy affordable, delicious meals.

Here’s the complete breakdown of IRCTC meal prices, drink rates, pantry and e-catering costs, along with some useful travel tips. You can also check out the history of Konkan Railway to see how food and service have changed along India’s coastal lines.

Where These Official Prices Come From

The Indian Railways and IRCTC publish standard menus and prices for mail/express trains, Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, and Vande Bharat services. The information below comes from IRCTC’s official menu and the Railway Board’s price circulars.

At-Station vs In-Train Pricing

• At-station vendors: Items sold at fixed units or kiosks are usually cheaper.
• In-train catering: Includes service and packaging costs, so prices are a bit higher.

For example, a veg meal may cost ₹70 at a station and ₹80 on the train.

IRCTC Standard Food Items & Prices (2025-26)

Standard Meals

• Veg Standard Casserole: ₹70 (station) / ₹80 (in-train). It includes rice, dal, sabzi, chapati, curd, and pickle.
• Egg Standard Casserole: ₹80-90 (in-train). It is the same as the veg meal but adds egg curry.
• Chicken Standard Casserole: ₹120-130 (in-train). It includes boneless chicken curry and standard sides.

Premium Train Meals (Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat)

Premium trains have service rates that change by class (1A, 2A, 3A, CC, SL). For example, meals on Rajdhani and Vande Bharat are slightly higher due to better service and packaging.

Beverages & Snacks

• Tea / Coffee: ₹5-15 depending on type (simple cup, tea bag, or pot service).
• Packaged Water (Rail Neer / BIS): ₹10 for 500ml and ₹15 for 1L.
• Snacks / Biscuits / Samosa: ₹20-120 depending on the vendor and region.

IRCTC E-Catering vs Pantry Car vs Station Vendors

• E-Catering: You can order from the IRCTC app or website for clear options and restaurant choices. Meals are delivered right to your seat.
• Pantry Car: This offers onboard service at standard prices, but stock may differ.
• Station Vendors: These are cheaper, but quality and cleanliness can vary.

How to Check the IRCTC Menu Online

1. Go to IRCTC Menu Rates.
2. Select your train type (Mail/Express, Rajdhani, Shatabdi, etc.).
3. Compare at-station and in-train prices to plan your meals.

Tips to Avoid Overcharging

1. Always ask for a printed bill from the catering staff.
2. Pre-order meals using the IRCTC e-Catering platform for fixed prices.
3. Familiarize yourself with the basic price guidelines — Veg ₹80, Egg ₹90, Chicken ₹120-130.
4. Report any overcharging using the RailMadad portal.

Regional Price Variation

While standard menu prices are generally the same, some a-la-carte items and local specialties may vary by vendor or state. However, main meals (veg/egg/chicken) and drinks like Rail Neer water are consistent across India.

Complaint & Feedback

If you are charged more than the listed rate, note your train number, coach, and vendor name. You can file a complaint through IRCTC or RailMadad. Passengers can also give feedback directly on e-catering order receipts.

Conclusion

The Railway Food Price List 2025-26 helps passengers plan meals and travel budgets effectively. Remember:

• Veg Meal – ₹80
• Egg Meal – ₹90
• Chicken Meal – ₹120-130
• Water Bottle – ₹10/₹15

Use IRCTC e-Catering for guaranteed pricing and cleanliness, and always ask for a bill to avoid overcharging. Safe travels and happy dining!

References

• IRCTC Official Menu Rates
• IRCTC Standard Meals
• RailMadad Complaint Portal
• Konkan Railway History – Train360