The Rajshahi to Dhaka train route offers five intercity trains: Silkcity Express, Padma Express, Dhumketu Express, Banalata Express, and Madhumati Express. Ticket prices range from 340 to 1,386 Taka depending on seat class, with the journey taking approximately 4.5 to 6 hours to cover the 245 km distance. Each train has specific departure times and weekly off days, making it essential to check the schedule before planning your trip.
We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Rajshahi to Dhaka train service. Whether you’re a student, professional, or tourist, this information will make your journey planning easier and more convenient.
Train Schedule from Rajshahi to Dhaka
The Rajshahi to Dhaka route is one of the busiest in Bangladesh Railway’s network, connecting the northwestern cultural hub with the capital city. Five different intercity trains operate on this train route, each with its own schedule and off days.
Here’s the current Rajshahi Train Schedule to Dhaka (updated April 2025):
| Train Name | Train Code | Off Day | Departure Rajshahi | Arrival at Kamalapur Railway Station |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silkcity Express | 754 | Sunday | 07:40 | 13:20 |
| Padma Express | 760 | Tuesday | 16:00 | 21:25 |
| Dhumketu Express | 770 | Wednesday | 23:20 | 05:00 |
| Banalata Express | 792 | Friday | 07:00 | 11:35 |
| Madhumati Express | 756 | Thursday | 06:40 | 14:00 |
Each of these train services offers a comfortable journey with modern amenities. The Banalata Express is the fastest option, completing the journey in about 4.5 hours, while other trains take approximately 5-6 hours.
It’s important to note that these trains don’t operate on their designated off days. For example, if you’re planning to travel on Sunday, the Silkcity Express won’t be available.
Ticket Prices for Rajshahi to Dhaka Trains
Train tickets from Rajshahi to Dhaka are reasonably priced, making train travel an affordable option for most passengers. The ticket prices vary based on the class of seat you choose.
Here’s a breakdown of the current ticket prices (including 15% VAT):
| Seat Category | Adult Ticket Price (Taka) | Children’s Ticket Price (Taka) |
|---|---|---|
| Shuvon Chair | 340-405 | 170-203 |
| Snigdha | 570-771 | 285-386 |
| AC Seat | 680-926 | 340-463 |
| 1st Class Seat | 897 | 449 |
| AC Berth | 1020-1386 | 510-693 |
| 1st Class Berth | 1020-1386 | 510-693 |
The Shuvon Chair is the most economical option, while the AC Berth offers the most comfort for overnight journeys. Snigdha class provides a good balance between comfort and affordability with quality seats.
These train ticket prices make train travel much more economical compared to other transportation options like flights on Biman Bangladesh Airlines or private cars. The added benefit is that you can enjoy the scenic beauty of rural Bangladesh during your journey.
How to Book Rajshahi to Dhaka Train Tickets
Booking your train ticket from Rajshahi to Dhaka is now easier than ever. Bangladesh Railway offers both online and offline booking options.
Online Booking Process
- Visit the official Bangladesh Railway e-ticketing platform
- Create an account using your email and mobile number
- Select Rajshahi as your departure station and Dhaka as your destination
- Choose your travel date and preferred seat class
- Select your desired train from the available options
- Enter passenger details and make payment using mobile banking, credit/debit cards
The Rail Sheba app is another convenient option for booking tickets. This official Bangladesh Railway mobile application allows you to:
- Search and book train tickets
- Check real-time seat availability
- Make secure payments
- Download e-tickets
- Track train locations
The app is available for both Android (Google Play Store) and iOS (App Store) users.
Station Counter Booking
If you prefer traditional booking, you can visit the Rajshahi Railway Station in person. The station ticket counters usually open several hours before train departures.
We recommend booking your tickets at least a few days in advance, especially during weekends and holidays when demand is high. For peak travel seasons, try to book your tickets a week or more in advance to secure your preferred seats.
Train Facilities and Amenities
The trains operating on the Rajshahi to Dhaka route offer various facilities to ensure a comfortable journey for passengers.
All trains feature:
- Comfortable seats in different classes
- Clean toilets
- Food and beverage services
- Prayer spaces
- Security personnel
The AC class seats are equipped with air conditioning systems that keep the temperature pleasant throughout the journey. The Snigdha class offers reclining seats with more legroom compared to Shuvon Chair class.
For overnight journeys, the Dhumketu Express is a popular choice as it departs late at night and arrives early morning in Dhaka. The AC Berth option on this train provides sleeping accommodations for a restful journey.
Food vendors board the train at various stations, offering snacks, meals, and beverages. Meals on intercity trains are generally of good quality, though prices may be slightly higher than at regular restaurants. However, we recommend bringing your own water and some snacks for the journey.
Route Information and Stations
The train route from Rajshahi to Dhaka covers approximately 245 kilometers by rail. During this journey, the train passes through several important stations and scenic landscapes.
Major stations along the route include:
- Rajshahi Railway Station (starting point)
- Ishwardi Junction
- Pabna
- Tangail
- Kamalapur Railway Station, Dhaka (final destination)
The Banalata Express is a non-stop intercity train that only halts at Ishwardi Junction between Rajshahi and Dhaka, making it the fastest option for travelers in a hurry.
Other trains make several stops along the way, allowing passengers from smaller towns to board. These stoppage stations typically last for 2-5 minutes, so if you’re getting off at an intermediate station, be prepared to disembark quickly.
The journey offers beautiful views of rural Bangladesh, including farmlands, rivers, and village life. The train crosses several bridges, including those over the mighty Padma River, providing spectacular views.
Comparison with Other Transport Options
When traveling from Rajshahi to Dhaka, you have several transportation options to choose from. Let’s compare trains with other common modes of transport:
| Transport Mode | Travel Time | Approximate Cost (Taka) | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 4.5-6 hours | 340-1386 | High |
| Bus | 6-7 hours | 500-1200 | Medium |
| Flight (Shah Makhdum Airport to Shahjalal International Airport) | 45 minutes | 3000-5000 | Very High |
| Private Car | 5-6 hours | 4000-5000 | High |
Trains offer the best balance of comfort, cost, and convenience. While flights are faster, they’re significantly more expensive and require additional travel to and from airports.
Buses are comparable in price to train tickets but typically take longer and offer less comfort. The road distance between Rajshahi and Dhaka is approximately 270 km, making the driving distance slightly longer than the rail route.
Another advantage of train travel is the ability to move around during the journey, which isn’t possible in buses or flights. This makes long journeys more comfortable, especially for families with children.
Seasonal Considerations for Train Travel
The best time to travel by train from Rajshahi to Dhaka depends on your preferences and schedule. Each time slot offers different advantages.
Weather Impact
During monsoon season (June to September), train travel is generally more reliable than road transport as highways can sometimes flood. However, trains might occasionally run behind schedule during heavy rainfall, especially when crossing the Buriganga river area.
Peak Travel Times
Trains are typically more crowded during:
- Weekend (Thursday evening to Saturday)
- Major holidays (Eid, Puja, Bengali New Year)
- University semester beginnings and endings
If you’re traveling during these peak times, we strongly recommend booking tickets at least 7-10 days in advance.
Station Facilities
Rajshahi Railway Station
Rajshahi Railway Station, built during the 1930s, offers several facilities for passengers:
- Ticket counters
- Waiting rooms
- Food stalls
- Restrooms
- Luggage storage
- ATM services
The station terminal building has been renovated recently to provide better services to passengers. The station yard is spacious and well-maintained.
Kamalapur Railway Station
As the largest railway station in Bangladesh, Kamalapur Railway Station in Dhaka offers comprehensive facilities:
- Multiple ticket counters
- Air-conditioned waiting rooms
- Various food options
- Luggage services
- Information desk
- Prayer rooms
- First aid services
Luggage Allowances and Restrictions
Each passenger is allowed to carry:
- AC Berth/1st Class Berth: 40 kg
- AC Seat/1st Class Seat: 35 kg
- Snigdha: 30 kg
- Shuvon Chair: 20 kg
Oversized items may require additional fees. Prohibited items include flammable materials, weapons, and illegal substances.
Accessibility Features
Bangladesh Railway has been improving accessibility features for passengers with disabilities:
- Wheelchair ramps at major stations
- Designated seating areas
- Assistance staff available upon request
- Priority boarding for disabled passengers, elderly, and pregnant women
Tips for a Comfortable Journey
To make your train journey from Rajshahi to Dhaka as pleasant as possible, here are some helpful tips:
Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure at the station. This gives you enough time to find your platform and coach.
Bring essential items like water, snacks, hand sanitizer, and tissues. While these items are available for purchase on the train, having your own supply is more convenient.
Keep your valuables secure and within sight at all times. Though trains are generally safe, it’s always good to be cautious.
For overnight journeys, consider bringing a light blanket as AC coaches can get quite cold. A small pillow can also make sleeping more comfortable.
Download entertainment or bring books to keep yourself occupied during the journey. Most trains don’t offer Wi-Fi, so having offline entertainment options is advisable.
Be respectful of other partners across trains by keeping noise levels down and disposing of trash properly. This helps ensure a pleasant journey for everyone.
Conclusion
The train journey from Rajshahi to Dhaka offers a comfortable, affordable, and scenic way to travel between these two important cities in Bangladesh. With five different trains operating on this route, travelers have multiple options to choose from based on their schedule and comfort preferences.
From the economical Shuvon Chair to the luxurious AC Berth, there’s something for every budget. The online booking system has made purchasing tickets more convenient than ever, eliminating the need to wait in long queues.
Whether you’re a student returning to university, a professional on a business trip, or a tourist exploring Bangladesh, the train provides an authentic travel experience while showcasing the beautiful countryside.
Next time you plan a trip from Rajshahi to Dhaka, consider taking the train for a journey that’s not just about reaching your destination, but also about enjoying the ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the fastest train from Rajshahi to Dhaka?
The Banalata Express is the fastest train, completing the journey in about 4.5 hours. It’s a non-stop intercity train with only one halt at Ishwardi Junction between Rajshahi and Dhaka.
How much does an AC ticket cost from Rajshahi to Dhaka?
An AC seat ticket costs between 680 to 926 Taka, while an AC Berth ticket costs between 1020 to 1386 Taka, including 15% VAT.
Can I book Rajshahi to Dhaka train tickets online?
Yes, you can book tickets online through the official Bangladesh Railway website or the Rail Sheba mobile app. This allows you to purchase tickets from home without standing in queues.
What is the distance between Rajshahi and Dhaka?
The distance between Rajshahi and Dhaka is approximately 245 kilometers by rail and around 270 kilometers by road.
Which train is best for overnight travel from Rajshahi to Dhaka?
The Dhumketu Express is ideal for overnight travel as it departs at 23:20 (11:20 PM) and arrives in Dhaka at 05:00 (5:00 AM), allowing you to sleep during the journey.
Do I need ID to board the train?
Yes, you must carry the same ID (National ID card, passport, or birth certificate) that you used when booking your ticket online. This will be verified by the ticket checker on board.
Are there any discounts available for train tickets?
Bangladesh Railway offers discounts for students, senior citizens (aged 60+), and group bookings of 10 or more passengers. Students must present a valid student ID to claim their discount.
