Traveling from Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) to Chittagong by train offers a convenient and scenic journey. This comprehensive guide provides the latest train schedules, ticket prices, and essential travel tips for 2026 to ensure a smooth transition from your flight to your railway adventure. Opting for the train from Bimanbandar Railway Station (Dhaka Airport Railway Station) directly after your arrival is often the most efficient choice, avoiding the need to travel to Kamalapur Railway Station in central Dhaka.
Understanding Dhaka Airport Railway Station (Bimanbandar)
Dhaka Airport Railway Station, also known as Bimanbandar Railway Station, is conveniently located directly opposite Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. It serves as a crucial stop for many intercity trains connecting Dhaka with various major cities across Bangladesh, including Chittagong. This strategic location minimizes transit time for air travelers heading south.
Getting from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Bimanbandar Railway Station
Reaching Bimanbandar Railway Station from the airport terminal is straightforward. You can use a shuttle bus service, which started on June 26, 2024, connecting the airport to the nearest bus and railway station. The shuttle bus fare is BDT 20 per person, or BDT 50 with extra luggage. Alternatively, the station is accessible via a short walk of approximately 1 km (0.62 miles) across the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway, past the Airport Garden roundabout. Three-wheeler taxis (CNGs) and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available from the airport area.
Dhaka Airport to Chittagong Train Schedule 2026
Several intercity trains connect Dhaka Airport Railway Station (Bimanbandar) to Chittagong Railway Station (Chattogram). The journey typically ranges from 4 hours 12 minutes to 5 hours 47 minutes. It’s crucial to verify the latest schedule, especially during peak seasons and holidays, as times can occasionally change. Bangladesh Railway operates these services, offering both daytime and overnight options.
Below is a general overview of popular intercity trains from Dhaka (including stops at Bimanbandar) to Chittagong. Always confirm the departure from Bimanbandar as the primary departure is often Kamalapur. Some trains may not stop at Airport station every day or may have different timings from there.
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure from Dhaka (Kamalapur) | Approx. Departure from Bimanbandar | Approx. Arrival in Chittagong | Off Day | Travel Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonar Bangla Express | 787/788 | 07:00 AM | ~07:27 AM | 11:55 AM | Wednesday | 4h 28m – 4h 55m |
| Mohanagar Provati (Intercity) | 703/704 | 07:45 AM | ~08:12 AM | 01:35 PM | N/A (Daily) | 5h 23m |
| Chattala Express | 801/802 | 01:45 PM | ~02:43 PM | 08:30 PM | N/A (Daily) | 5h 47m |
| Suborno Express | 701/702 | 04:30 PM | ~04:58 PM | 09:25 PM | N/A (Daily) | 4h 27m – 4h 55m |
| Mohanagar Express | 721/722 | 09:20 PM | ~09:48 PM | 03:30 AM (next day) | N/A (Daily) | 5h 42m |
| Turna Nishita Express (Overnight) | 741/742 | 11:00 PM | ~11:28 PM | 03:40 AM (next day) | N/A (Daily) | 4h 12m |
Note: Departure times from Bimanbandar Railway Station are approximate and can be a few minutes after the Kamalapur departure. Always confirm the exact schedule for your travel date. Journey times are averages and can vary.
Dhaka to Chittagong Train Ticket Prices 2026
Train ticket prices from Dhaka Airport to Chittagong vary based on the train type and class of service. Bangladesh Railway offers several classes, including economy and premium options. Prices generally range from BDT 350 for basic seats up to BDT 1,398 for AC Berth.
| Class Type | Approximate Price (BDT) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Shovon (General) | 350-400 | Basic seating, non-reserved, minimal comfort, often crowded. |
| Shovon Chair | 405-550 | Economical reclining seats, preferred by many middle-class passengers. |
| First Class Chair | 621-685 | Comfortable padded seats in a non-AC compartment, ample legroom. |
| Snigdha (AC Chair) | 777-855 | Air-conditioned seating, popular for daytime travel, padded leather seats. |
| First Class AC (AC Seat/Cabin) | 932-1200+ | Air-conditioned coaches, can have private coupes or comfortable seats, available on popular routes. |
| AC Berth (Sleeper) | 1398-1800 | Most expensive, air-conditioned sleeping berths, carpeted coaches, ample legroom. |
Note: Prices are approximate for 2026 and subject to change by Bangladesh Railway. Exact fares should be confirmed at the time of booking.
How to Book Train Tickets
Booking train tickets for your journey from Dhaka Airport to Chittagong can be done through multiple channels. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons.
Online Booking
The easiest method for many travelers is online booking. You can purchase tickets via the official Bangladesh Railway e-ticketing website (eticket.railway.gov.bd). An alternative and widely used platform is the Shohoz app or website (shohoz.com), which is an official partner of Bangladesh Railway for ticket management. For international travelers, third-party platforms like 12go.asia also offer convenient booking options.
Offline Booking (Station Counters)
Tickets can also be purchased directly from the station counters. You can buy tickets at Dhaka Airport Railway Station (Bimanbandar) or Kamalapur Railway Station. Be prepared for queues, especially if you haven’t booked in advance.
Train Classes and Facilities
Bangladesh Railway offers various classes to suit different budgets and comfort preferences. Intercity trains are generally faster, more comfortable, and include better amenities compared to Mail/Express trains.
Air-Conditioned Classes
The Air Conditioned (AC) classes, including Snigdha (AC Chair) and AC Berth/Cabin, offer the highest level of comfort. These coaches are often partially or fully air-conditioned, with padded leather seats or sleeping berths. AC Berth (sleeper) provides sleeping accommodation, ample legroom, and sometimes private coupes.
First Class and Second Class
First Class (non-AC) provides comfortable seating with ample legroom but without air conditioning. Second Class is divided into subclasses like Shovon Chair, Shovon, and Shulov. Shovon Chair offers reclining seats and is a popular choice for many. Most intercity and long-distance trains also include a pantry car for refreshments and a power car.
Journey Duration and Distance
The distance between Dhaka (specifically Dhaka Airport Railway Station) and Chittagong Railway Station is approximately 247 km (154 miles). The travel time for intercity and express trains typically ranges from 5.5 to 7 hours. Mail trains, being slower, can take up to 10 hours for the same route.
Upon Arrival at Chittagong Railway Station
Chittagong Railway Station (officially Chattogram Railway Station) is a significant transportation hub in the bustling port city. The station blends British colonial history with modern upgrades. It connects Chittagong to major cities across Bangladesh.
Local Transport from Chittagong Railway Station
Upon arrival, you will find various local transport options to reach your final destination in Chittagong. Auto-rickshaws (CNGs), local buses, and taxis are readily available. It is advisable to agree on a fare with auto-rickshaw or taxi drivers before starting your journey. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also operational in Chittagong for convenient and reliable transportation.
Essential Travel Tips
- Book Early: Secure your tickets several days or even weeks in advance, especially for intercity trains and during holidays.
- Arrive Early: Aim to reach Dhaka Airport Railway Station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
- Check Latest Schedule: Train schedules can sometimes change; always verify the timings closer to your travel date through Bangladesh Railway’s official channels or trusted online platforms.
- Baggage: While trains generally accommodate luggage, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Food and Drink: Intercity trains often have pantry cars, but carrying your own snacks and water is a good idea.
- Connectivity in Chittagong: For onward travel, consider pre-booking taxis or using ride-sharing apps to reach your hotel or next destination from Chittagong Railway Station.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many travelers, especially those new to Bangladesh, can make a few common errors when planning train travel from Dhaka Airport.
Going to Kamalapur Railway Station Unnecessarily
A frequent mistake is traveling from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport all the way to Kamalapur Railway Station in central Dhaka. This adds significant travel time and cost due to heavy city traffic. Most intercity trains to Chittagong stop at Bimanbandar Railway Station, making it the more efficient departure point for airport arrivals.
Not Booking Tickets in Advance
Intercity trains on popular routes like Dhaka to Chittagong are in high demand and tickets, especially for AC classes, sell out quickly. Failing to book in advance can leave you without a seat or force you into less comfortable travel options.
Ignoring Off-Days
Some trains have a designated “off-day” when they do not operate. Always check the train schedule to ensure your chosen train runs on your desired travel date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about train travel from Dhaka Airport to Chittagong.
How far is Dhaka Airport Railway Station from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport?
Dhaka Airport Railway Station (Bimanbandar) is located directly opposite Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, approximately 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) away. A shuttle bus service is available for convenient transit.
Which trains go from Dhaka Airport to Chittagong?
Several intercity trains, including Sonar Bangla Express, Mohanagar Provati, Chattala Express, Suborno Express, Mohanagar Express, and Turna Nishita Express, stop at Dhaka Airport Railway Station on their way to Chittagong.
How long does the train journey take from Dhaka Airport to Chittagong?
The train journey from Dhaka Airport to Chittagong typically takes between 4 hours 12 minutes and 5 hours 47 minutes, depending on the specific train and its stops.
What are the different classes available on trains to Chittagong?
Bangladesh Railway offers various classes such as Shovon (General), Shovon Chair, First Class Chair, Snigdha (AC Chair), First Class AC (AC Seat/Cabin), and AC Berth (Sleeper).
How can I check the live train status or latest schedule?
For the most up-to-date schedule and live status, it is best to check the official Bangladesh Railway website (eticket.railway.gov.bd) or use the Shohoz app.
Can I buy tickets at the Dhaka Airport Railway Station?
Yes, tickets can be purchased directly from the ticket counters at Dhaka Airport Railway Station, but advance booking online is highly recommended, especially for intercity trains.
Conclusion
Traveling by train from Dhaka Airport (Bimanbandar) to Chittagong offers an efficient and comfortable way to reach your destination. By understanding the train schedules, ticket classes, and booking procedures, you can ensure a hassle-free journey. Remember to utilize the Bimanbandar Railway Station for direct access from the airport and book your tickets in advance for optimal planning. This guide provides all necessary information to confidently navigate your train travel in Bangladesh.
