Last Updated on March 19, 2025 by Sudhir Singh
If you’re traveling by train in India and need a safe, affordable, and convenient place to store your luggage, the Indian Railway Cloakroom is a great option. Whether you have a long layover, want to explore the city without dragging your bags around, or just need a secure place to keep your belongings before your journey, railway cloakrooms can be a lifesaver.
However, if you’ve never used one before, you might have a few questions:
- How much does it cost?
- What are the rules?
- Are railway cloakrooms safe?
- What are the common issues travellers face?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using an Indian railway cloakroom, from how it works to tips for a smooth experience.
Read More: Indian Railway Operation Amanat
What is an Indian Railway Cloakroom?
A railway cloakroom is a luggage storage facility available at major railway stations across India. These facilities allow passengers to safely deposit their bags for a few hours or even days. They’re especially useful if you have a long wait before your next train, want to explore the city without carrying heavy luggage, or need a secure place to store your belongings before checking into a hotel.
- Available at most major railway stations
- Budget-friendly storage option
- Secure storage with proper tagging
- Can store luggage for hours or even multiple days
However, the experience isn’t the same everywhere—some cloakrooms are clean, well-maintained, and efficient, while others may have long queues, slow service, or limited availability. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid unnecessary hassle.
How to Use a Railway Cloakroom? (Step-by-Step Guide)
Using a railway cloakroom is simple, but there are a few important rules to follow:
Step 1: Locate the Cloakroom
- Most cloakrooms are near the station’s main entrance or waiting halls
- Look for signboards or ask railway staff for directions
Step 2: Make Sure Your Luggage is Locked
- Only locked bags are accepted. If your bag isn’t locked, you won’t be allowed to store it.
- No loose items, plastic bags, or open luggage are accepted.
- Tip: Use a sturdy padlock or a built-in number lock to keep your bag secure.
Step 3: Show Your Train Ticket
- You must show a valid train ticket to use the cloakroom.
- The ticket can be for past, present, or upcoming travel within a reasonable time frame.
Step 4: Pay the Storage Charges
- Charges depend on your bag size and how long you store it.
- (See pricing details below.)
Step 5: Collect Your Receipt & Store It Safely
- You’ll get a receipt/token with a unique number—don’t lose it.
- You’ll need this receipt to collect your bag later.
Step 6: Collect Your Luggage Before Expiry
- Return within your booked hours to pick up your bag.
- Show the receipt/token, and you’ll get your luggage back.
Tip: While some cloakrooms accept digital payments, many still operate on a cash-only basis. It’s always a good idea to carry small change.
Read More: What Are Indian Railways’ New ‘M’ Coaches (AC 3 Economy)?
Indian Railway Cloakroom Charges in India (Approximate Pricing)
| Duration | Luggage Size | Price (Per Bag) |
|---|---|---|
| First 24 Hours | Small Bag (Backpack, Laptop Bag) | ₹20 – ₹30 |
| First 24 Hours | Medium Bag (Carry-on Luggage) | ₹30 – ₹40 |
| First 24 Hours | Large Suitcase or Trunk | 5–10 |
| Beyond 24 Hours | Additional Per Hour | ₹5 – ₹10 |
| Beyond 24 Hours | Per Extra Day | ₹20 – ₹30 |
Note: Prices may vary by station. Some high-demand stations (like New Delhi or Mumbai CSMT) may charge slightly more.
If you lost your luggage, read here: Operation Amanat: Find Lost Luggage on Indian Railways
Common Problems with Railway Cloakrooms & How to Avoid Them
While cloakrooms are useful, travellers often face certain challenges. Here’s what to watch out for:
1. Long Queues & Slow Service
Problem: Many railway stations experience long waiting times due to slow service and limited staff.
Solution: Arrive early, especially during peak travel seasons.
2. Rude or Unhelpful Staff
Problem: Some cloakroom staff may be impolite or uncooperative.
Solution: Stay calm and polite but firm. If necessary, escalate the issue to station authorities.
3. Cash-Only Transactions
Problem: Many cloakrooms don’t accept digital payments.
Solution: Carry the exact change to avoid payment hassles.
4. Limited Storage Availability
Problem: Cloakrooms at busy stations can fill up quickly.
Solution: Plan ahead and check early to secure a spot.
5. Poorly Maintained Facilities
Problem: Some cloakrooms lack cleanliness or proper security.
Solution: If the facility looks unsafe, consider alternative luggage storage options.
Pro Tip: Some railway stations now have self-service luggage lockers, which are often more efficient and faster to use.
Best Railway Cloakrooms in India
While most major railway stations in India have cloakrooms, not all facilities are equally maintained. Some offer modern, clean, and secure storage, while others may suffer from long queues, outdated systems, or poor management. Below is a list of some of the best railway cloakrooms in India, chosen for their security, cleanliness, and efficiency.
1. New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) – Delhi
Why it’s good:
- One of the busiest railway stations in India, with a well-maintained cloakroom
- CCTV surveillance and 24/7 access for added security
- Digital payment options available
Location: Paharganj side, near Platform 1 and Ajmeri Gate side
Timings: 24/7
Tip: Due to heavy footfall, cloakrooms here can fill up quickly. Arrive early or consider nearby private luggage storage options.
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) – Mumbai
Why it’s good:
- Offers self-service luggage lockers, reducing reliance on staff
- Well-managed with a barcode-based tracking system
- Efficient and fast service
Location: Near Platform 12
Timings: 24/7
Tip: If you prefer faster service, opt for self-service lockers instead of manually operated counters.
3. Howrah Railway Station, Kolkata
Why it’s good:
- Recently renovated with improved security and cleanliness
- Multiple cloakroom counters reduce waiting times
- Convenient location near major transport hubs
Location: Near the main entrance
Timings: 24/7
Tip: Ensure your bag has a strong lock, as weak or faulty locks may lead to rejection at the counter.
4. Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC)—Bangalore
Why it’s good:
- Uses a barcode system for luggage tracking, improving security
- Well-maintained and organized facility
- Digital payments accepted
Location: Near the ticket counter
Timings: 24/7
Tip: This station offers a reliable storage option, especially for long-term travellers.
5. Egmore Railway Station, Chennai
Why it’s good:
- Clean and well-organized compared to other railway cloakrooms
- Digital payment options available
- Good customer service
Location: Near the waiting hall
Timings: 24/7
Tip: If storing luggage here, take advantage of the station’s central location to explore nearby historical sites.
6. Secunderabad Railway Station, Hyderabad
Why it’s good:
- Large storage space, ensuring availability even during peak hours
- Affordable rates and reliable security
Location: Platform 1
Timings: 24/7
Tip: Since this station is less crowded than others in metro cities, it is a hassle-free storage option.
7. MGR Chennai Central Railway Station, Chennai
Why it’s good:
- Offers air-conditioned cloakroom facilities, a rare feature in Indian railway stations
- Equipped with CCTV cameras and an automated tracking system
Location: Inside the main concourse
Timings: 24/7
Tip: The air-conditioned facility is ideal for storing temperature-sensitive items such as electronics.
8. Pune Junction Railway Station—Pune
Why it’s good:
- Clean and well-managed cloakroom with shorter wait times
- Affordable rates compared to larger metro stations
Location: Near Platform 1
Timings: 24/7
Tip: This station is an excellent choice for short layovers before traveling to Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar.
9. Ahmedabad Junction—Ahmadabad
Why it’s good:
- Fast service and efficient management
- Good security with CCTV monitoring
Location: Near the ticketing area
Timings: 24/7
Tip: This is a useful storage option for travellers heading to Rann of Kutch or Gir National Park.
10. Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station—Lucknow
Why it’s good:
- Well-organized and reasonably priced cloakroom
- Large storage space and multiple counters
Location: Near the general waiting hall
Timings: 24/7
Tip: Since this station serves multiple railway zones, verify the correct cloakroom for your departure platform.
Here are some of the best-rated railway cloakrooms based on security, cleanliness, and ease of access:
| Station Name | Facilities | Location |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) Cloakrooms | Large cloakroom, CCTV, 24/7 access | Paharganj side |
| Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Cloakrooms Mumbai | Self-service lockers, efficient staff | Platform 12 |
| Howrah Railway Station, Cloakrooms Kolkata | Upgraded facilities, good security | Near main entrance |
| Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) Cloakrooms | Barcode tracking system, neat & organized | Near ticket counter |
| Egmore Railway Station Cloakrooms, Chennai | Clean, digital payments accepted | Near waiting hall |
Alternatives to Indian Railway Cloakrooms
If a railway cloakroom is full or inconvenient, you can consider:
- Private Luggage Storage Services
- Book online
- 24/7 access
- Insurance coverage for luggage
- Hotel Concierge Services: If you have a hotel booking, ask if they can store your luggage for free.
- Metro & Airport Lockers: Some metro stations and airports offer secure luggage storage.
Final Thoughts: Should You Use an Indian Railway Cloakroom?
Yes, if you need a budget-friendly, short-term luggage storage option at a railway station.
No, if you have expensive valuables or need guaranteed security.
Travel Smart: Plan ahead, lock your bags properly, keep your receipt safe, and arrive early for a hassle-free experience.
Would you like online cloakroom booking options in the future? Let us know in the comments.
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