2-Tier AC (2A) vs 3-Tier AC (3A) in Indian Railways Ticket Booking – What is the Difference?

Dear readers, today through this post we will learn what is Indian Railways Ticket Booking and how this booking is done. And which booking is easy and good, today we will study this Indian Railways Ticket Booking step by step in detail.

Indian Railways Ticket Booking

AC coaches are provided by Indian Railways to make it a comfortable and budget-friendly option for passengers. But when it comes to 2-Tier AC (2A) and 3-Tier AC (3A), passengers get confused to choose between AC coaches.  Which option will be better for you? In this blog, we will explain in detail the major differences between 2A vs 3A, features and price.

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1. Berth arrangement and space

2-tier AC (2A):

• Each cabin has 2 berths (upper and lower).
• There are also side berths, but overall the cabin accommodates fewer passengers.
• Each berth has curtains, which ensures privacy.
• The berths are wide and comfortable.

3-tier AC (3A):

• Each cabin has 3 berths (upper, middle, and lower).
• There are also side berths in 3-tier, which ensures higher number of passengers than 2A.
• There are no curtains, so privacy is less.
• The berths are slightly narrower than 2A.

2. Features and Comfort

Features of 2A:

• Bedrolls (mattress, pillow, bedsheet) are of better quality than 3A.
• There are more reading lamps and charging points in the cabin.
• The number of passengers is less, which leads to better peace and cleanliness.
• The catering service may offer a slightly better menu.

Features of 3A:

• Basic AC facilities like berth, bedsheet, and pillow are available, but the quality is not as good as 2A.
• There are fewer charging points.
• Being a budget-friendly option, it is mostly preferred by families and group travelers.

3. Price difference

2-tier AC is about 25-40% more expensive than 3-tier AC. For example, between Delhi to Mumbai:

• 3A fare: ₹1,800 – ₹2,500
• 2A fare: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500

If you prefer privacy and comfort, 2A is better. On the other hand, 3A is the right choice for those traveling on a budget.

4. Passenger capacity and availability

• 3A coach has 6 to 8 coaches, so tickets are very easy to get.
• 2A coach has only 2 to 4 coaches, passengers need to hurry up.

5. Who is it best for?

• Choose 2A if:

1. You are travelling for a long distance and want comfort.
2. Privacy is important with family.
3. Business trip or travelling alone.

• Choose 3A if:

1. Budget is important.
2. Traveling with a group or friends.
3. The trip is of short duration and basic amenities are sufficient.

Comparison Table

Parameters	2-Tier AC (2A)	3-Tier AC (3A)
Berths per cabin	2 (Upper-Bottom)	3 (Upper-Middle-Bottom)
Curtains	Yes	No
Fare	25-40% higher	Economical
Privacy	More	Low
Ticket availability	Limited	Easy

Conclusion

Indian Railways provides AC coaches to make travel comfortable and a budget-friendly option for passengers. But when passengers have to choose between 2-tier AC (2A) and 3-tier AC (3A), it is common for passengers to get confused and choose 2A. Whereas, 3A is a great option for budget-friendly travel. While booking a train, take a decision keeping in mind your needs and duration of travel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Note :- If you found this information useful, share it and ask your questions in the comments. Which class do you prefer when traveling? Let us know!