Complete Guide to Metro Travel in India 2026: Tickets, Rules, Safety & Tips
Whether you're a first-time metro traveler or a daily commuter, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about using metro rail systems across India. From purchasing tickets to understanding etiquette, we've got you covered.
This guide covers metro systems in cities like Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Jaipur, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and more.
Table of Contents
Getting Started with Metro Travel
Your First Metro Journey
Metro rail has transformed urban transportation in India, offering a fast, reliable, and eco-friendly way to navigate major cities. With 800+ km of operational metro lines across more than 15 cities, and several expansions underway, India now has one of the world's largest metro networks.
Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Travelers:
- Locate Your Nearest Station: Use OyeMetro's Nearby feature or look for the distinctive metro signage in your area.
- Enter Through Security: All metro stations have mandatory security checks. Keep your bags ready for X-ray scanning.
- Purchase a Ticket: Buy a token from the ticket counter or Token Vending Machine (TVM) for your destination.
- Navigate to Platform: Follow the signage to the correct platform for your direction of travel.
- Board the Train: Wait for passengers to exit before boarding. Stand behind the yellow line while waiting.
- Exit at Destination: Use your token at the exit AFC gate to complete your journey.
Pro Tip: Download the official metro app for your city or use OyeMetro to plan your route before traveling. This helps you identify the correct platform and interchange stations.
Tickets, Fares & Smart Cards
Understanding Metro Fare Structure
Metro fares in India are distance-based, meaning you pay according to how far you travel. Fares are among the most affordable in the world, ranging from ₹10 to ₹60 depending on distance and city.
Types of Tickets Available:
Plastic tokens for one-way travel. Purchase at counters or TVMs. Must be returned at exit gates.
Rechargeable cards offering 10-15% discount. Ideal for regular travelers. Can be topped up online or at stations.
Day passes available in some cities (1-day, 3-day options). Unlimited travel within validity period.
Available for groups of 25+ passengers traveling together. Must be booked in advance.
Available in select metros (e.g., Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai) via official apps. Scan QR at AFC gates - no physical ticket needed.
Smart Card Benefits:
- 10-15% discount on every journey
- No queuing at ticket counters
- Can be linked to UPI wallets or metro apps for online recharge (availability varies by city).
- Track travel history and expenses
- Valid across airport express lines (where applicable)
Money-Saving Tip: If you travel metro more than 4-5 times per week, a smart card pays for itself within a month through the discount savings alone.
Metro Etiquette & Rules
Do's and Don'ts for Metro Travel
✓ DO's
- Stand on the right side of escalators
- Allow passengers to exit before boarding
- Keep bags on your lap or between feet
- Offer seats to elderly, pregnant, disabled
- Keep mobile phones on silent
- Move to the center of the coach
- Hold handrails while standing
✗ DON'Ts
- Eat or drink inside trains/stations
- Smoke or carry inflammable items
- Play music on speakers
- Block doors or lean on them
- Sit on the floor
- Litter or spit
- Travel without valid ticket
- Carry sharp objects or prohibited items
Penalties for Violations:
- Ticketless travel: ₹200-500 fine + fare
- Eating/Drinking: ₹200-500 fine
- Smoking: ₹200 fine
- Unauthorized vending: ₹500+ fine
- Damaging property: Fine + legal action
Safety & Security Guidelines
Staying Safe on the Metro
Indian metros are among the safest public transport systems in the world, with CCTV surveillance, security personnel, and emergency systems throughout.
Security Features:
- Mandatory baggage X-ray screening at all entrances
- CCTV cameras in trains and stations
- CISF/security personnel at all stations
- Emergency intercoms in every coach
- Fire extinguishers and emergency exits
- Platform screen doors (in newer stations)
Women's Safety:
Most Indian metros have dedicated women's coaches (usually the first coach). Additional measures include:
- Women-only coaches during all hours
- Pink/Purple CCTV-monitored parking
- Women helpline numbers displayed
- Female security staff at many stations
Emergency: In case of emergency, press the emergency button in the coach or use the intercom to contact the train operator. For security concerns, alert the nearest CISF personnel or call metro helpline.
Each metro system has a dedicated helpline number displayed inside stations and coaches for emergencies or assistance.
Accessibility Features
Metro Access for All
All Indian metro systems are designed to be inclusive and accessible to passengers with disabilities, elderly travelers, and those with special needs.
Accessibility Infrastructure:
- Elevators: Available at all stations connecting street level to platforms
- Tactile Paths: Yellow textured paths guide visually impaired passengers
- Wheelchair Spaces: Dedicated areas in each coach near doors
- Braille Signage: Station names and directions in Braille
- Audio Announcements: Station names announced in multiple languages
- Low-Floor Coaches: Designed to reduce the gap between platform and train at most stations.
- Accessible Toilets: Available at all interchange stations
Assistance Services:
Station staff are trained to assist passengers with disabilities. Services include:
- Wheelchair assistance (available on request)
- Priority boarding during peak hours
- Help with ticket purchase and navigation
- Escort service between platforms at interchange stations
Peak Hours & Crowd Management
Timing Your Journey
Typical Peak Hours:
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Peak hours may vary slightly depending on the city, line, and local work culture.
Strategies for Comfortable Travel:
- Travel off-peak: If possible, schedule trips before 8 AM or between 11 AM - 4 PM
- Board from terminus: Starting stations often have empty seats available
- Use less crowded coaches: End coaches are typically less crowded than middle ones
- Know your exit: Position yourself near the door that opens at your station
- Consider alternate routes: Sometimes a longer route via different lines is less crowded
Crowd Indicator: Many metro apps now show real-time crowd levels. Green = comfortable, Yellow = moderately crowded, Red = very crowded.
First & Last Mile Connectivity
Getting To and From Metro Stations
The "first and last mile" refers to the journey between your origin/destination and the nearest metro station. Good connectivity options make metro travel more convenient.
Available Options:
Operated by metro corporations, these buses connect stations to nearby localities. Often free or heavily discounted with metro card.
Available at most station exits. Negotiate fare or use app-based services like Ola/Uber Auto.
Services may be integrated with metro apps or third-party providers depending on the city.
Multi-level parking available at select stations. Park your vehicle and take metro for the main journey.
Many stations are strategically located within walking distance of residential and commercial areas.
Major Metro Networks in India
Operational Metro Systems (2026)
Below are some of India’s major and most-used metro systems. Several other cities also operate metro services.
Other operational metro systems include Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Lucknow, and Kolkata.
* Statistics are approximate and subject to change as networks expand.
Insider Tips for Comfortable Travel
Expert Tips from Regular Commuters
At interchange stations, follow the platform indicator signs. Some interchanges require walking 2-3 minutes through corridors.
Get real-time route suggestions, fare estimates, and station information. Works offline after initial download.
If your destination is 2-3 stops away, stand near the door. For longer journeys, move inside for a chance at seats.
Station announcements can be loud. Earphones help you stay aware while enjoying your music or podcasts.
Token vending machines often need exact change. Keep ₹10, ₹20, ₹50 notes handy, or use UPI payments.
Metro typically operates from 5:30-6:00 AM to 11:00-11:30 PM. Timings may vary by city and day of week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy a metro ticket in India?
You can buy metro tickets at ticket counters or Token Vending Machines (TVMs) located near AFC gates. For regular travelers, smart cards like Delhi Metro's Metro Card or Bangalore's Namma Metro Card offer discounts of 10-15% on fares.
What is the cheapest way to travel by metro?
Using a rechargeable smart card is the cheapest way to travel by metro. Smart cards offer 10-15% discount on single journey fares. Additionally, traveling during non-peak hours and using first/last mile connectivity options like feeder buses can further reduce costs.
Can I carry luggage on the metro?
Yes, but with restrictions. Most metro networks allow luggage up to 15-25 kg. Oversized items like bicycles, large furniture, and gas cylinders are prohibited. All luggage must pass through X-ray security screening at station entrances. Final discretion rests with metro security staff.
What are peak hours for Indian metros?
Peak hours typically are 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays. During these times, trains are more crowded and you may need to wait for 2-3 trains to board. Plan your journey outside peak hours for a more comfortable experience.
Are Indian metros wheelchair accessible?
Yes, all modern Indian metro systems are designed to be accessible. Stations have elevators, tactile paths for visually impaired passengers, wheelchair-accessible coaches, and dedicated spaces in trains. Station staff are trained to assist passengers with disabilities.
Can I eat or drink inside the metro?
No, eating and drinking are strictly prohibited inside metro trains and stations. This rule helps maintain cleanliness. Violation can result in fines ranging from ₹200 to ₹500 depending on the metro network.
How do I find the nearest metro station?
Use OyeMetro's 'Nearby' feature which uses your phone's GPS to locate the closest metro station. You can also use Google Maps or the official metro apps for your city. Most stations are located near major landmarks and bus stops.
What happens if I lose my metro token or card?
If you lose your token, you'll need to pay the maximum fare for that line at the exit gate. For lost smart cards, you can block the card online (if registered) and get a replacement at customer care centers. Unregistered cards cannot be recovered.
About the Author
OyeMetro Editorial Team consists of transport enthusiasts and daily commuters who compile accurate metro information from official sources and personal experience.
Last updated: January 3, 2026 • Have feedback? Contact us