pros and cons of sleeper class train travel

dessy

Hi all,

I know that this has been discussed somewhere, but cant find it....
I am planning a trip and we have a few overnight journeys by train. So far I am thinking to reserve tickets for sleeper class, meet people, chat.....etc, but beginning to get cold feet.

Could you please let me know what are your personal pros and cons on travelling in the sleeper class, as opposed to any other ( First class excluded), what are the best berths to book....any tips?

Thank you
D.

etin

Hi Dessy, please go through Knowing the Indian Train
and for more check out the forum Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

ericd

In my opinion, the biggest pro's:

- AC-Class is way too cold! (SL-class has fans)
- cheap, great value for money

SHIMLA

In my opinion, the only plus about SL class is its fare. Hence, avoid it unless you are on a really tight budget.

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cyberhippie

Oh you'll get roasted for that opinion Shimla!
I like travel in both classes for the long ones I choose to be away from the noise and dust in AC.
After all there's only so much hawking you can take on a 40 hour journey
For the new arrival and indeed for many travellers 2nd class has that unquantifiable magic of being in a very very different enviroment. For the first time visitor it may well be one of the lasting images of a trip to India.
So many revel in this rather unique manner of travel.
To be sure there's never a dull moment in 2nd class but try telling that to someone in May on a forty hour trip, it's not for lily livered

Dr Funkenstein

Agree with cyberhippie - 2nd class sleeper's a good laugh but would be wearing for a really long journey, especially if it was in the summer heat. I do like the endless procession of chai-wallahs, pakora-wallahs and everything-else-under-the-sun-wallahs, though. I always feel particularly fat after a second class sleeper journey.

I'm going to give 2AC a go for the first time on this trip.

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dessy

OK, if one is to travel in sleeper class, which berth do you think is best to reserve? Top berth?
Dessy

Dr Funkenstein

Lower berths are better if you want to keep an eye on your luggage, upper berths are better if you want to be away from everyone wandering through the carriage. Upper berths are nearer the fans, too - this can be pretty important in the Summer (although they just blow hot air at you after a while!)

Dr Funkenstein

My favourite place on the train is sitting in the doorway with your legs dangling out. Not a good place to kip, mind.

dessy

i might try that place

Dr Funkenstein

Not allowed, technically, I think, but no-one seems to mind.

Just watch your feet when you go through a station!

dessy

will try to remember that.

tell me, if i dont like the sleeper class how easy is to upgrade?

Dr Funkenstein

I'd imagine that most ticket conductors would be fairly amenable, particularly if there's a bit of baksheesh offered. I've never upgraded but have had seats found on trains that were previously 'full' when a little money was offered.

dessy

Great. Thank you Mr Funkenstein.
Any other members preferences or tips?

rangss

I think this baksheesh thing is a bit too much... I have never ever offered any TC any baksheesh....and they always accomodated me....you see in Indian railways you get to see some people who are really upright and take pride in their work... all it takes to warm them up is a few kind words.

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