How to Find Railway Station Code - Complete Guide

Need the station code for train booking or railway information? This guide shows you how to find station codes quickly for any of India's 8,700+ railway stations.

Understanding Railway Station Codes

Indian Railways uses unique alphabetic codes to identify each station in its vast network. These codes, typically 2-5 characters long (most commonly 3-4 characters), make ticket booking, train scheduling, and railway operations efficient and error-free across the country's extensive rail network.

Station codes are essential for booking tickets online through IRCTC, checking PNR status, tracking trains, and understanding railway timetables. Whether you're a frequent traveler or booking your first train ticket, knowing how to find station codes saves time and prevents booking errors.

3 Quick Methods to Find Railway Station Codes

Method 1: ChennaiIQ Railway Database

ChennaiIQ provides instant access to station codes for 8,700+ railway stations across India. Our Railway section offers fast search by station name, city, or state, displaying complete station information including code, zone, division, and connectivity. Our database is updated regularly from official Indian Railways sources.

Method 2: IRCTC Website and Mobile App

When booking tickets on IRCTC, start typing the station name in the 'From' or 'To' fields. The system will show matching stations with their codes. This real-time search is integrated into Indian Railways' booking system, ensuring accuracy. The IRCTC Rail Connect app provides the same functionality on mobile.

Method 3: Railway Station Boards and Announcements

At physical railway stations, the station code is displayed on platform boards, signage, and ticket counters. Train announcements and electronic displays also show station codes alongside station names. This method works when you're already at the station or nearby.

Important Tips for Using Station Codes

  • Case Insensitive: Station codes work in both uppercase and lowercase (MAS = mas = Mas).
  • Major Cities Have Multiple Stations: Delhi has NDLS (New Delhi), DLI (Old Delhi), etc. Choose the correct one.
  • Junction Codes: Some junction stations add 'J' or 'JN' to their code (e.g., NDLSJN for New Delhi Junction).
  • Verify Before Booking: Double-check the station code matches your intended destination to avoid wrong bookings.

Common Railway Station Codes (Top 20)

  • NDLS - New Delhi
  • MAS - Chennai Central
  • CSTM - Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
  • HWH - Howrah Junction
  • BZA - Vijayawada Junction
  • SBC - Bangalore City
  • PUNE - Pune Junction
  • LKO - Lucknow
  • JP - Jaipur
  • AMD - Ahmedabad

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a railway station code?

Railway station code is a unique alphabetic identifier assigned by Indian Railways to each station. These codes are 2-5 characters long (most commonly 3-4 characters) and are used for ticket booking, train schedules, and railway operations. For example, NDLS for New Delhi, MAS for Chennai Central, and CSTM for Mumbai CST.

How do I find station code for train booking?

Use ChennaiIQ's railway section to search by station name and find the code instantly. Alternatively, the IRCTC website and railway reservation counters display station codes when you start typing a station name. Having the correct code ensures accurate ticket booking and prevents mistakes.

Can two stations have the same code?

No, each railway station in India has a unique code assigned by Indian Railways. Even stations with similar names in different locations have different codes. For example, Chennai Central is MAS, while Chennai Egmore is MS—distinct codes for two major stations in the same city.

What is the difference between station name and station code?

Station name is the full descriptive name (e.g., 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus'), while the station code is a short alphanumeric identifier (e.g., 'CSTM'). Codes are used in railway systems for efficiency, while names are used for passenger information. Both refer to the same physical station.

Conclusion

Railway station codes are essential for seamless train travel in India. ChennaiIQ's comprehensive database of 8,700+ stations provides the fastest way to find accurate station codes with complete details.

Ready to find a station code? Visit our Railway section now.