2A or 3A for journey during the day - advice please

Catwin

Hi,

We are going to go by train from Margao to Hampi, and are debating about whether to go 2A or 3A. We have two children with us, and would like to reserve window seats.

1. What is the difference between 2A and 3A? How much more crowded is 3A likely to be?

2. It would also be good to have an upper bunk in case one of the kids want to sleep, but we definitely want to be able to sit next to them. Should we reserve two upper and two lower seats?

Thanks

indracal

Look at the article: http://www.indiamike.com/india-artic...-indian-train/

2A has 4 berths in one side and 2 in the aisle side (one over the other).

In case of 3A, 6 berths in the inner side and aisle side remains 2.

** My description is not good - sort of confusing, I suggest reading the article and doing a google image search.

Lower berths have window side.

If children are aged below 5, no berth is allotted for them and you have to share. In such case, 2AC would be better - you should then choose 2 lower berths as your preference. That way, subject to availability, you're given the 2 lowers on the 4-berth side, which keeps you seating beside the window, even your children take a nap.

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Catwin

Hi,

I know the technical differences between 2AC and 3AC. I wondered how crowded they can get with extra passengers. Is it usually 6 people in a 3AC compartment during the day, or more? This is for the train from Hospet to Margao.
Thanks

gaurav1441

In 3 Ac there would not be no more passengers than those having valid tickets. So it would be 6 on the main tiers and two on the sides.

OceanTragic

Having done both types this year with kids aged 11 and 8 I'd say there's a big difference if you want to stretch out. Both classes are clean and comfortable.

On the plus side for 3A as an adult you get to have conversations with other travellers. We didn't get window seats as we wanted two upper berths, just in case the kids wanted a sleep, which they didn't. But you can still easily see out of the window.

In 2A though our kids went on the upper berths to read and play games whilst we put our feet up on the bench seats and read and talked.

We tried both types because we could, to see which we preferred for next time and the result is...we don't know which we prefer I think if I was going for a long journey I possibly would pick 2A but I probably wouldn't be bothered either way.

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Catwin

Thanks so much to all replies - for specific advice and opinions. As the journey will be eight hours or so, and our boys have never been on a train for more than an hour ever, I think I will take the advice for the AC2. I do like the idea of a chance to meet other people, but on the other hand, there will be plenty of chance for that. I can see the boys disappearing onto a top bunk to play once the novelty of the window view has worn off - which would leave me the window to enjoy!
I am so appreciating all the help on offer here.
Thanks.

indracal

Great that you could reach a decision! Wish you all the best for your journey ahead!

Happy Diwali!