The Rajshahi to Khulna train route offers three trains: Kapotaksha Express, Sagardari Express (intercity trains), and Mohananda Express (mail train). The distance between Rajshahi and Khulna is approximately 307 kilometers, and journey times vary from 5 hours 55 minutes to 8 hours 45 minutes, depending on the train. Ticket prices start at 360 taka for the Shuvon Chair class and go up to 828 taka for the AC class.
We’ve been helping travelers navigate Bangladesh Railway’s network for years, and we know how important it is to have accurate information before planning your journey. Let’s explain everything you need to know about traveling from Rajshahi to Khulna by train.
Train Schedule from Rajshahi to Khulna
The train schedule from Rajshahi to Khulna includes both intercity and mail trains. Bangladesh Railway operates these trains on regular schedules with specific off days. Intercity trains are faster and make your journey comfortable, while mail trains make more stops along the railway route.
Intercity Train Schedule List
There are two intercity trains operating on the Rajshahi to Khulna route. These trains offer more comfort and faster travel times compared to mail trains.
| Train Name | Departure Time | Arrival | Journey Time | Off Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sagardari Express (762) | 06:00 AM | 12:10 PM | 6h 10m | Monday |
| Kapotaksha Express (716) | 02:30 PM | 08:25 PM | 5h 55m | Friday |
The Sagardari Express is perfect if you prefer morning travel. It leaves Rajshahi early in the morning and gets you to Khulna by noon. The Kapotaksha Express is ideal for afternoon travelers, departing Rajshahi in the afternoon and arriving in Khulna in the evening.
Both these intercity trains are equipped with modern facilities to make your journey comfortable. They have fewer stops compared to mail trains, which is why they reach the destination faster.
Mail Train Schedules
There’s one direct train operating as a mail train on this route – the Mohananda Express. Mail trains typically make more stops than intercity trains, resulting in longer travel times.
| Train Name | Departure | Arrival | Journey Time | Off Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mohananda Express (16) | 07:55 AM | 04:40 PM | 8h 45m | No off day |
The Mohananda Express runs every day of the week without any off days. While it takes longer to reach Khulna, it’s a reliable option if you’re traveling on days when the intercity trains aren’t operating.
Ticket Prices for Rajshahi to Khulna Trains
Train tickets from Rajshahi to Khulna are reasonably priced. The cost of train travel varies based on the class of travel you choose. Here’s a breakdown of the ticket prices:
| Seat Category | Price (including 15% VAT) |
|---|---|
| Shuvon Chair | 360 taka |
| Snigdha | 690 taka |
| AC class seat | 828 taka |
These prices are for the Kapotaksha Express, but they’re generally similar for the Sagardari Express as well. The Shuvon Chair is the standard seating class, while AC offers air-conditioned comfort for a higher price.
Mail trains like the Mohananda Express typically have slightly lower fares than intercity trains, but they also offer fewer amenities and take longer to reach the destination.
How to Book Train Tickets from Rajshahi to Khulna
Booking your train ticket from Rajshahi to Khulna is easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ticket booking options based on your preference and convenience.
Online Booking
The most convenient way to book your train ticket is through the official Bangladesh Railway website. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the Bangladesh Railway website or download the Rail Sheba app
- Select Rajshahi as your departure station and Khulna as your destination
- Choose your travel date and preferred class
- Click on “Search Trains” to see available options
- Select your preferred train and complete the payment using mobile banking, credit cards, or other online methods
- Download and print your e-ticket or save it on your mobile device
Online booking opens 10 days before the journey date. We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for weekend travel, as tickets sell out quickly.
Station Counter Booking
If you prefer the traditional way, you can purchase tickets directly from the railway station counter:
- Visit the nearest railway station
- Provide your travel details to the ticket officer
- Pay in cash to receive a printed ticket
Station counter booking is a good option if you’re not comfortable with online transactions or if you’re booking at the last minute, when online tickets might not be available.
Mobile App Booking via Rail Sheba
The Rail Sheba app is the official mobile application of Bangladesh Railway. It offers a user-friendly interface for booking train tickets:
- Download the Rail Sheba app from the Google Play Store or the App Store
- Create an account using your National ID (NID) or birth registration number
- Search for trains between Rajshahi and Khulna
- Select your preferred train and complete the booking process
- Pay using mobile banking or other digital payment methods
- Download your e-ticket
The app also provides real-time updates on train status and seat availability, making it a handy tool for train travelers.
The Rajshahi-Khulna Railway Route Experience
The train journey from Rajshahi to Khulna takes you through some of the most scenic parts of western Bangladesh. The route passes through important stations, including Jessore Junction, which serves as a major connection point in the region.
Stations Along the Route
The Rajshahi to Khulna railway route includes several important stations:
- Rajshahi Station (starting point)
- Ishwardi Junction
- Pakshi
- Bheramara
- Chuadanga
- Alamdanga
- Jessore Junction
- Khulna Station (destination)
Jessore Junction is particularly important as it connects the Khulna-Jessore-Rajshahi line with other routes. Many passengers join or leave the train at this station.
Historical Significance
The Kapotaksha Express began service on this route in the 1980s, while the Sagardari Express was introduced later to meet growing passenger demand. These trains have become vital transportation links for western Bangladesh, connecting major cities and facilitating trade and travel.
Tips for a Peaceful Journey from Rajshahi to Khulna
Having traveled this route many times, we’ve gathered some safety ideas to make your journey comfortable:
- Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure time
- Carry a water bottle and some snacks for the journey
- Keep your ticket handy, as it will be checked multiple times during the journey
- Bring a power bank as charging points might be limited on the train
- Consider booking an AC class seat during the summer months, as it can get very hot
- Download movies or books to keep yourself entertained during the journey
The journey offers beautiful views of rural Bangladesh, especially as you pass through Jessore Junction. Keep your camera ready to capture these scenic moments.
Train Facilities and Coach Composition
The trains operating on the Rajshahi to Khulna route offer various facilities to ensure train passengers have a comfortable experience.
Kapotaksha Express (Train Code 716)
The Kapotaksha Express consists of 11 coaches, including:
- One AC chair car
- Eight non-AC chair cars (Shuvon Chair)
- Two-seater class coaches
The train is equipped with:
- Comfortable seating arrangements
- Air-conditioned coaches (in AC class)
- Clean washrooms
- Luggage storage space
- Mobile charging points in some coaches
Sagardari Express (Train Code 762)
The Sagardari Express has a similar composition to the Kapotaksha Express, with a mix of AC and non-AC coaches. The facilities are comparable, making both intercity trains good options for this route.
Mohananda Express (Train Code 16)
The Mohananda Express, being a mail train, offers basic facilities:
- Standard seating
- Basic washrooms
- Limited food service (it’s best to carry your food)
- Luggage storage
While mail trains don’t offer the same level of comfort as intercity trains, they’re still a reliable option for travel.
Seasonal Considerations for Travel
The experience of traveling between Rajshahi and Khulna varies significantly with the seasons:
Summer (March-May): Temperatures can reach 35-40°C, making an AC class highly recommended. Carry extra water and stay hydrated.
Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rainfall may occasionally cause delays. The landscape becomes lush green, offering beautiful views.
Winter (November-February): The most comfortable time to travel, with pleasant temperatures. Trains are often more crowded during this season due to tourism.
Conclusion
Traveling from Rajshahi to Khulna by train is a convenient and affordable option. With three trains operating on this route, you have flexibility in choosing your departure time. The journey takes between 6 to 8 hours, depending on the train you choose.
Intercity trains like the Kapotaksha Express and Sagardari Express offer better facilities and faster travel times, while the Mohananda Express provides a reliable daily service. Ticket prices are reasonable, starting from 360 taka for the Shuvon Chair class.
We recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability. Whether you choose to book online through the Bangladesh Railway website, at the station counter, or via the Rail Sheba app, the process is straightforward.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to travel from Rajshahi to Khulna by train?
The journey time varies depending on the train. Kapotaksha Express takes about 5 hours 55 minutes, Sagardari Express takes around 6 hours 10 minutes, and Mohananda Express takes approximately 8 hours 45 minutes.
What is the distance between Rajshahi and Khulna?
The railway distance between Rajshahi and Khulna is approximately 307 kilometers. The driving distance by road is slightly different.
How many trains run between Rajshahi and Khulna?
There are three trains that operate on this route – two intercity trains (Kapotaksha Express and Sagardari Express) and one mail train (Mohananda Express).
What are the off days for the Rajshahi to Khulna trains?
The Sagardari Express doesn’t operate on Mondays, the Kapotaksha Express doesn’t run on Fridays, and the Mohananda Express runs every day without any off days.
How can I book tickets for the Rajshahi to Khulna trains?
You can book tickets online through the Bangladesh Railway website, at the station counter, or via the Rail Sheba app.
What is the ticket price for Rajshahi to Khulna trains?
Ticket prices start from 360 taka for the Shuvon Chair class and 828 taka for the AC class, including 15% VAT.
Does the train stop at Jessore Junction?
Yes, both the Kapotaksha Express and Sagardari Express make a stop at Jessore Junction, which is an important station on the Khulna-Jessore-Rajshahi route.
What is the average time needed for the journey?
The average time needed for the journey is about 6-7 hours, depending on which train you take and any actual delay time that might occur.
Can I check the real-time status of my train?
Yes, you can check the real-time status of your train through the Rail Sheba app or by sending an SMS to the Bangladesh Railway’s designated number.
