Its trains carry over 12 million passengers every day. The network covers much of the country and is a quintessential part of the fabric of India, as well as being relatively inexpensive. Express services link all the main cities and local services link most other parts of the country. Buses connect with trains to serve parts of the country not on the rail network. Children 5-11 years of age pay half price, children under five travel free.
Major trains carry restaurant cars.
Children under 5 travel free. It is sold only to foreign nationals and Indians residing abroad holding a valid passport, and replaces all other concessional tickets. Refunds can be given only if cancellation is made before the starting date. Holders of an Indrail Pass travelling on the Reydhani Express and Shatabdi Express are exempted from all reservation fees, sleeping car charges, express train meal charges and other costs. A ticket can be used within one year of its issue.