Train Berth Types: A Look at the Different Choices

How often have you traveled by train? Even if you have traveled once or twice, you know that comfort matters. And it is important to note that you have the option of choosing the kind of seats you want, provided you book them before they get occupied by others. In Indian trains, there are different types of seats, and each of them is priced differently based on all the facilities available. 

Whenever you go to the IRCTC website or even make use of offline booking systems, you will be asked to specify the kind of seats. In that case, you really need to know the differences between available seats and classes of tickets. This will help in choosing the right kind of seat for your train journey. In this article, we will talk about the types of berths available on Indian trains. 

5 Types of Berths on Indian Trains

When traveling by train, selecting the right berth can greatly impact your comfort throughout the journey. Indian Railways offers a variety of berth options, each with unique features, accessibility, and amenities. Here’s a detailed overview of the different berth types:

Upper Berth (UB):

This is specifically meant for lying down during the entire journey. If you are sure that you only want to rest or sleep, you can choose a seat in the upper berth. Nobody will disturb you for sure. However, you will not be able to enjoy any view during the journey. For those seeking privacy and minimal disturbance, the upper berth is a good option. Positioned at the top, it offers a quiet sleeping space as no one will need to use it during the day. However, a significant disadvantage is that there’s no sitting position in the upper berth, and climbing up may be difficult for some. Additionally, if you need to sit during the day, you’ll need to find space on the lower berths.

Middle Berth (MB):

This is probably the least comfortable berth. The occupant of a middle berth is dependent on the lower berth passenger. One must therefore conform to the whims and fancies of the lower berth. The only possible benefit is that they are the ones closest to switches and charging points, giving people the chance to take advantage of the proximity and always have their laptops and smartphones charged. The middle berth is located between the lower and upper berths. While it provides a comfortable sleeping area, its major drawback is that it doesn’t allow for a sitting position during the day.

Lower Berth (LB):

The lower berth is the most accommodating for all types of passengers. Therefore, lower berth allotments can be useful for someone who has a habit of getting off at every station or occasionally using the restroom. You have a second table that you can use as a dining table or a place to store your laptop. The lower berth is the most accessible and convenient, especially for senior citizens, passengers with mobility issues, or families with children. Positioned at seat level, it allows easy access without the need to climb, and during the day, it doubles as a seating area. It also has access to under-seat storage, making it convenient for keeping luggage close by.

Side Upper:

The side upper berth is situated along the aisle and elevated, similar to the side lower berth. In terms of headspace, it offers more comfort than the standard upper berth, and you can sit comfortably in it unlike the upper berth. Despite its elevated position, it provides a more spacious feel and easier sitting compared to the upper berth, although climbing is still required.

Side Lower:

The side lower berth is situated along the aisle and offers easy access, particularly for solo travelers or those who prefer quick exits. It converts into seats during the day and has windows for a good view. However, side berths can feel a bit cramped due to their smaller size compared to the main berths. While one can appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area, a side berth would make you feel a little exposed, especially in an AC 3-tier where there are no curtains. A lower-side berth may or may not have access to a charging port. Additionally, if you are sitting with your leg hanging, you might get hurt whenever there is movement with the luggage.

Conclusion

Choosing the right berth on an Indian train can significantly impact your travel comfort and overall experience. Each type of berth—Upper, Middle, Lower, Side Upper, and Side Lower—offers distinct advantages and drawbacks. While the Upper Berth provides privacy and quiet, it lacks a sitting option and can be difficult to access. The Middle Berth, though close to power sources, offers limited comfort and no sitting space during the day. The Lower Berth is the most accessible and versatile, suitable for various needs, including easy access and additional storage. The Side Upper Berth offers better headspace and comfort compared to the Upper Berth, while the Side Lower Berth provides easy access and a view, though it may feel cramped and exposed. Understanding these options helps you make an informed choice to enhance your train journey.

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