IRCTC HDFC Bank Credit Card Review: Top Benefits for Train Travelers
IRCTC HDFC Bank Credit Card is a perfect pick for those who frequently travel by train, offering many benefits such as reward points, cashback on bookings, and complimentary lounge access.
If you are a frequent train traveler, the IRCTC HDFC Bank Credit Card can be a great addition to your wallet. With a low annual fee, reward points, cashback, and lounge access, this card stands out from the crowd. Below, we dive into its detailed benefits, eligibility criteria and more.
Key Highlights of IRCTC HDFC Bank Credit Card
| Best Suited for | Travel |
| Joining Fee | Rs. 500 |
| Renewal Fee | Rs. 500 |
| Minimum Income Requirement | Salaried: More than Rs. 25,000 p.m. Self-employed: ITR > Rs. 6 lakh p.a. |
| Best Feature | 5% cashback on train ticket bookings via SmartBuy; 5 reward points per Rs. 100 spent on IRCTC website & Rail Connect App |
| Welcome Benefit | Rs. 500 voucher on card activation within the first 30 days |
Features & Benefits
Welcome Benefits
Receive a Rs. 500 voucher upon card activation within 30 days of issuance.
Reward Points
- 5 reward points per Rs. 100 spent on the Rail Connect app and IRCTC website.
- 1 reward point per Rs. 100 spent on all other categories.
Note: 1 reward point equals Re. 1.
Cashback Benefits
5% cashback on booking IRCTC train tickets using HDFC Bank SmartBuy. If you book a ticket worth Rs. 3,000, you get Rs. 150 cashback plus 150 reward points. That accumulates to Rs. 300, considering 1 reward point equals Re. 1.
If you’re also interested in cashback on other types of transactions, check out the SBI Cashback Credit Card Review.
Lounge Access
- Two-Hour Stay: Relax and unwind in the lounge for up to two hours before your journey.
- Buffet Meals: Enjoy a full meal—breakfast, lunch, or dinner—based on your arrival time.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected with complimentary high-speed internet access.
- Air-Conditioned Comfort: Escape the heat in a fully air-conditioned seating area.
- Reading Material: Browse through a selection of magazines and newspapers to pass the time.
- Unlimited Tea & Coffee: Savor unlimited hot beverages, including tea and coffee.
Milestone Benefits
You will get a gift voucher of Rs.500 on completing a retail spending limit of Rs.30,000 every quarter or every 90 days.
Other Benefits
Enjoy the following additional perks:
- 1% transaction charge waiver on IRCTC website and app, capped at Rs. 1,000 per statement cycle.
- 1% fuel surcharge waiver on transactions between Rs. 400 and Rs. 5,000, capped at Rs. 250 per statement cycle.
For those who travel frequently by road, the Axis Indian Oil Credit Card Review offers an excellent alternative with fuel-related benefits.
Should You Apply?
The IRCTC HDFC Bank Credit Card, with its low annual fee and attractive travel-related benefits, is an excellent option if you are a frequent train traveler. Note that the card offers minimal benefits on non-IRCTC spends, so if you’re seeking extensive rewards beyond train bookings, consider other cards such as the IDFC First Wow Credit Card or the ICICI Emeralde Credit Card.
Eligibility Criteria
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Salaried or Self-Employed |
| Age | Salaried: 21 to 60 years Self-Employed: 21 to 65 years |
| Minimum Income Requirement | Salaried: More than Rs. 25,000 p.m. Self-employed: ITR > Rs. 6 lakh p.a. |
| Serviceable Cities | Refer to HDFC’s list of serviceable cities. |
For complete documentation requirements, visit the HDFC website.
Fees & Charges
| Annual Fee | Rs. 500 |
| Renewal Fee | Rs. 500 (Waived off on spending Rs. 1.5 lakh in the previous year) |
| Finance Charges | 3.75% p.m. (45% p.a.) |
| Late Payment Fee | Varies depending on the outstanding amount (up to Rs. 1,300) |
For detailed fee structures and applicable terms, kindly visit the HDFC website.
FAQs
How much can I earn in rewards and cashback?
Earn up to 1,000 reward points per month (12,000 annually) and a monthly cashback capped at Rs. 1,000 (Rs. 12,000 annually).
What is the validity of the reward points?
The reward points are valid for a period of 2 years from the time they are awarded.
How can I redeem my reward points?
Redeem your rewards on HDFC Bank SmartBuy for train tickets or IRCTC vouchers.
Does the card support contactless payments?
Yes, contactless transactions up to Rs. 5,000 are supported.
If you’re interested in other cards that offer great benefits for frequent shoppers, consider the HDFC Shoppers Stop Credit Card Review or the Tata Neu HDFC Bank Credit Card Review.
