Senior Citizen Free Travel Schemes in India
Written by Aruna Sane
Last reviewed: 15 September 2026 | Senior Citizen Information Researcher
Traveling in your golden years should be affordable and accessible. Indian government at both central and state levels have introduced several free and subsidized travel schemes for senior citizens. This comprehensive guide covers all major travel benefits available to senior citizens across India.
Central Government Travel Schemes
Indian Railways Senior Citizen Concession
Indian Railways offers concession on train fares for senior citizens:
- Men (60 years and above): 40% concession on base fare
- Women (58 years and above): 50% concession on base fare
- Available on all reserved classes in mail, express, and premium trains
- Cannot be combined with other concessions
Air India Senior Citizen Discount
Air India offers special fares for senior citizens on domestic flights:
- Up to ₹600 discount on economy class fares
- Available on direct domestic flights
- Can be booked on airindia.com or through travel agents
- Age proof required at the time of booking and travel
State-Wise Free Travel Schemes
| State | Scheme Name | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Delhi Free Travel for Senior Citizens | Free travel on DTC buses and Delhi Metro | 60 years and above, Delhi resident |
| Karnataka | KSRTC Free Pass | Free travel on KSRTC buses | 65 years and above, Karnataka resident |
| Tamil Nadu | Free Bus Pass | Free travel on TNSTC and MTC buses | 60 years and above (women), 65 years (men) |
| Maharashtra | MSRTC Concession Pass | Free travel on state transport buses | 65 years and above, Maharashtra resident |
| Kerala | Free Bus Pass | Free travel on KSRTC buses | 60 years and above, Kerala resident |
| Andhra Pradesh | APSRTC Free Pass | Free travel on APSRTC buses | 65 years and above, AP resident |
| Telangana | TSRTC Free Pass | Free travel on TSRTC buses | 65 years and above, Telangana resident |
| West Bengal | Free Pass Scheme | Free travel on SBSTC and NBSTC buses | 60 years and above, WB resident |
| Uttar Pradesh | UPSRTC Concession | Free/50% concession on state buses | 65 years and above, UP resident |
| Madhya Pradesh | Free Pass Scheme | Free travel on MSRTC buses | 65 years and above, MP resident |
Metro Concessions
Several metro systems in India offer special concessions for senior citizens:
- Delhi Metro: 50% concession for senior citizens (60+). Smart card required. Available on all lines.
- Bangalore Metro (Namma Metro): 50% concession for senior citizens (65+). Available on both Green and Purple lines.
- Mumbai Metro: Concession available. Contact metro station for details.
- Chennai Metro: 50% concession for senior citizens (60+). Available on both corridors.
- Kolkata Metro: 50% concession for senior citizens (60+).
- Hyderabad Metro: Concession available. Check with metro authorities.
Airline Discounts for Senior Citizens
Several airlines offer discounts for senior citizens on domestic flights:
- Air India: Up to ₹600 discount on economy class
- IndiGo: Special fares (check website for availability)
- SpiceJet: Senior citizen fares on select routes
- Go First: Discounted fares for passengers above 60
- AirAsia India: Periodic senior citizen promotional fares
Tip: Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance and compare fares across airlines to get the best deal.
Government Pilgrim Schemes (Teerth Yatra)
Several government schemes offer free or subsidized pilgrimage travel for senior citizens:
PRASHAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive)
- Central government scheme for development of pilgrimage sites.
- Free pilgrimage trips organized for senior citizens from eligible families.
- Includes travel, accommodation, food, and sightseeing.
- Contact your district administration or social welfare department for enrollment.
State-Level Teerth Yatra Schemes
- Delhi: Free pilgrimage to selected religious sites for senior citizens.
- Rajasthan: Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana – free pilgrimage for senior citizens.
- Gujarat: Mukhya Mantri Tirth Yatra Yojana – free pilgrimage for senior citizens.
- Uttar Pradesh: Mukhyamantri Prayashti Teerth Yatra Yojana for senior citizens.
- Madhya Pradesh: Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana for senior citizens.
- Bihar: Mukhya Mantri Pravasi Teerth Yatra Yojana.
How to Apply for Free Travel Schemes
- Check Eligibility: Verify age and residency requirements for your state's scheme.
- Gather Documents: Aadhaar card, age proof, address proof, passport-size photograph, and senior citizen card (if available).
- Visit the Authority: Go to the transport department, social welfare office, or designated centre.
- Fill Application Form: Complete the application form with accurate details.
- Submit Documents: Submit the required documents along with the application.
- Receive Pass/Card: Once approved, you will receive a free travel pass or smart card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the free travel pass on any bus or only specific routes?
Free travel passes are typically valid on government-operated state transport buses. They may not be valid on private buses, AC buses, or premium services. Check the terms of your specific pass.
Is the Delhi Metro concession available for tourists?
No, metro concessions are typically available only for residents. You need to show a valid Delhi address proof (Aadhaar or voter ID) to get the concession.
Can I apply for free pilgrimage schemes online?
Some states have online application portals, while others require in-person application. Check your state's tourism or social welfare department website for details.
Are there any charges for the free travel pass?
No, the free travel pass is completely free of cost. There are no application charges or processing fees.
Can I use the senior citizen railway concession and state free travel pass together?
No, you can generally use only one concession at a time. If you are using a state-level free travel pass, you cannot additionally claim the railway concession for the same journey.
Do I need a senior citizen card to avail these benefits?
While a senior citizen card is helpful, it is not always mandatory. Most schemes accept Aadhaar or passport as age proof. However, having a senior citizen card makes the process smoother.