Train journeys in India are becoming smarter and more comfortable with the help of digital services. One such convenience is the ability to order fresh meals directly to your train seat using WhatsApp. Passengers no longer need to depend solely on pantry cars or station vendors. With just a PNR number and a few taps on WhatsApp, food can be delivered straight to your berth at a selected station.

This service is made possible through a collaboration between IRCTC and Zoop, with chatbot technology powered by Jio Haptik. The entire process runs smoothly on WhatsApp, eliminating the need to install any additional mobile application.

What Is WhatsApp Food Ordering on Trains?

The WhatsApp-based food ordering service allows train passengers to browse menus, select restaurants, place orders, make payments, and track deliveries—all within a chat window. The system works by fetching journey details through your PNR number, ensuring accurate seat-level delivery at an upcoming station of your choice.

This initiative aims to solve common travel challenges such as poor network connectivity, lack of hygienic food options, and confusion around ordering from unfamiliar apps during a journey.

Why This Service Is Useful for Train Travelers

Ordering food via WhatsApp while travelling by train offers several advantages:

• No need to download or register on a separate app
• Easy access even with low internet connectivity
• Multiple restaurant choices at selected stations
• Real-time order tracking and updates
• Options for both cash and online payments
• Customer support and feedback directly through chat

This makes the service especially useful for long-distance travellers, senior citizens, and those unfamiliar with complex food delivery apps.

How to Order Food on a Train Using WhatsApp: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow the steps below to place your food order smoothly during your train journey:

Step 1: Save the Official WhatsApp Number

Save +91 7042062070 in your phone’s contact list. Alternatively, you can open a WhatsApp chat directly using the official link without saving the number.

Step 2: Start the Chat

Send a simple message like “Hi” to initiate the conversation.

Step 3: View Available Options

An automated reply will appear. Tap on View Options to see the available services.

Step 4: Choose “Order Food”

From the dropdown menu, select the Order Food option to proceed.

Step 5: Select PNR-Based Ordering

The chatbot will offer multiple ways to search. Choose Yes, I have my PNR number.

Step 6: Enter Your 10-Digit PNR Number

Once entered, the system will automatically detect your train number, coach, seat/berth, and route details.

Step 7: Verify Passenger Details

Confirm that the displayed journey and seat information is correct.

Step 8: Select Delivery Station

Choose an upcoming station where you want the food to be delivered.

Step 9: Pick a Restaurant

Browse through a list of available restaurants at the selected station and choose one based on cuisine, ratings, or preferences.

Step 10: Add Food Items to Cart

Select your desired dishes from the menu and add them to your cart.

Step 11: Choose Payment Method

You can opt for cash on delivery or online payment.

Step 12: Complete Payment

If you choose online payment, you’ll be redirected to secure payment options. For cash, additional verification may be required.

Step 13: Order Confirmation

Once confirmed, the chat will display all order details including order ID, restaurant name, delivery station, time, date, and contact information.

Important Points to Remember

• Keep your PNR number handy before starting the order
• Place the order well before the train reaches the selected station
• Availability of restaurants may vary by station
• Always check delivery timing to avoid missing the station

Final Thoughts

Food ordering via WhatsApp has transformed the train travel experience in India. It combines simplicity, accessibility, and reliability into one seamless service. With no app downloads, easy navigation, and trusted railway integration, this feature ensures that passengers can enjoy fresh, hygienic meals without stress.

As Indian Railways continues to modernize passenger services, WhatsApp-based food delivery stands out as a practical solution that truly enhances comfort during long journeys.