2S (Second Seating)

2S in a train means Second Sitting. It is the most affordable reserved train class in Indian Railways and is meant only for sitting, so there are no berths for sleeping as you get in Sleeper Class.

You will mostly find 2S second seating on daytime trains and shorter routes. It is a non-A/C class and is useful for trips of a few hours when you want a reserved seat at a low fare.

Here’s how Second Seating (2S) coaches differ from other train classes:

 

2S second seating coaches have bench-style seats laid out in a 3+3 pattern. There are 3 seats on each side of the central walkway, so one row can seat six passengers. Some older ICF coaches may use a 3+2 layout, while newer LHB 2nd seating coaches generally use the 3+3 arrangement.

Inside the coach, seats are divided into the following types:

• Aisle seat: This seat is closest to the central walkway. Sitting here makes it easier to access the washroom during the journey.

• Middle seat: This seat is located between the window and aisle seats.

• Window seat: This seat is located next to the window. It is a good choice if you want to look outside and enjoy the view.

Most new LHB coaches have about 102 to 108 2S seats. However, the number can vary depending on the coach your train is using.

As the most affordable reserved train class in India, 2S (Second Seating) offers some basic and practical facilities to passengers:

• Openable windows: Since there is no air-conditioning, the coach has windows that open to help circulate fresh air inside.
• Powerful fans: There are ceiling fans to help ventilate the coach and reduce sweating among passengers.
• Cushioned seats: Each 2S coach has cushioned seats to keep your back comfortable during the journey.
• Overhead luggage space: Instead of placing small and medium bags near your feet, you can keep them on the luggage racks above the 2S seats.
• LED lights: Most 2S seating coaches now have LED lights, which make it easier to see inside the coach during early morning and evening journeys.
• Charging points: Some coaches have shared charging points where you can charge your mobile phone.
• Toilets and washbasins: There are two clean toilets and basins located on either ends of the coach.

Second seating may not be suitable or preferred for every type of passenger. Here are some people who may actually find 2S tickets useful:

• Budget travellers: 2S is the most pocket-friendly reserved class in a train, so it works well if you want to spend less on the train ticket and still have a fixed seat.

• Travellers on a short-distance trip: A 2nd seating coach is a suitable choice for shorter trips (often under 300 km), where you do not need AC or a sleeping berth.

• Frequent travellers: Second sitting (2S) is also useful for people who often travel short distances and want a lower ticket fare.

• Passengers travelling during the daytime: 2S seating is also a practical choice for daytime trips where you will be sitting during the journey.

Simply put, 2S second seating is a good fit for trips where you mainly need a confirmed seat at a low fare. For overnight or very long journeys, Sleeper or an A/C class may be more suitable because 2S is meant only for sitting.

 

2S ticket fares are usually lower than Sleeper, A/C Chair Car, and A/C sleeper classes because you are paying for a non-A/C sitting seat rather than a sleeping berth. 2S fare is not fixed for every train. The amount depends on factors such as:

• Distance travelled

• Booking quota

• Applicable reservation or other railway charges

Here’s a breakdown of 2S ticket fares for some popular trains to help you understand pricing better:

*These fares are just for your reference only. Actual ticket prices can change based on the train, travel date, and applicable charges. Check redRail for the latest fare before booking.

Follow these steps to book 2S second seating tickets through redRail:

• Open the redRail app or go to the “train booking” section on the redBus website.

• Enter your source station, destination, and journey date. Click ‘Search Trains’.

• Select ‘Second Sitting (2S)’ as the preferred train class.

• Compare trains based on departure timings, fares, etc., and select a preferred option.

• Enter your IRCTC username and passenger details like name, age, gender, and mobile number.

• Complete the payment using the available payment option.

After the payment goes through, you will be redirected to the IRCTC page where you have to enter your IRCTC password and the displayed captcha for verification. Once your booking is complete, you can check the 2S seating PNR details in your booking information.