Traveling from Santahar to Dhaka by train is easy and affordable. Bangladesh Railway runs 8 direct intercity trains daily, except on their weekly off days. The trip covers about 232 kilometers and takes around 6 to 8 hours. Ticket prices start at 300 BDT for economy seats and go up to 1,472 BDT for AC berths. For the latest train schedule and ticket prices, always check the official Bangladesh Railway e-ticket portal.
Why Choose the Train from Santahar to Dhaka?
This route is one of the busiest and most popular transport routes in Bangladesh. Many people prefer trains because they offer a comfortable trip, affordable ticket prices, and avoid the delays of road travel or busy highways. Direct trains such as Ekota Express and Lalmoni Express make the trip smooth and safe, and you can choose from a range of seat classes to fit your comfort and budget.
If you’re arriving at Shah Makhdum Airport in Rajshahi or Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, you can easily connect to the railway station for your onward trip.
Santahar to Dhaka Train Schedule: Departure and Arrival Times
Here’s a clear table showing all the main intercity trains, their codes, off days, and times. These are direct trains with limited extra stoppages, helping you reach your destination faster.
| Train Name | Train Code | Off Day | Departure (Santahar) | Arrival (Dhaka) | Average Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ekota Express | 706 | None | 02:20 AM | 07:50 AM | 5h 30m |
| Lalmoni Express | 752 | Friday | 01:40 PM | 07:40 PM | 6h |
| Drutajan Express | 758 | None | 12:35 PM | 06:55 PM | 6h 20m |
| Nilsagar Express | 766 | Sunday | 11:25 PM | 05:30 AM | 6h 5m |
| Rangpur Express | 772 | Sunday | 12:12 AM | 06:05 AM | 5h 53m |
| Panchagarh Express | 794 | None | 04:55 PM | 09:55 PM | 5h |
| Kurigram Express | 798 | Wednesday | 11:25 AM | 05:15 PM | 5h 50m |
| Chilahati Express | 806 | Saturday | 09:20 AM | 02:50 PM | 5h 30m |
Mail trains and passenger train services are also available, but they take longer due to more stops. For the most comfortable and faster train service, intercity trains are the best choice.
Ticket Prices from Santahar to Dhaka: Seat Classes and Costs
Ticket prices depend on the seat class. Bangladesh Railway offers a wide range of options, from economy seats to premium AC berths. Here’s an updated table with the main classes and prices:
| Seat Class | Ticket Price (BDT) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Shuvon | 300 – 360 | Basic, economy seating |
| Shuvon Chair | 360 – 430 | Padded, seater class |
| First Seat | 480 – 680 | Spacious, 1st class seat |
| First Berth | 715 – 984 | Sleeping berth, non-AC |
| Snigdha | 600 – 817 | Premium, non-AC, quiet |
| AC Seat | 715 – 984 | Air-conditioned class seat |
| AC Berth | 1,065 – 1,472 | AC sleeping berth, bedding |
Children, students, and senior citizens can get discounts on select seat classes. For the most accurate and up-to-date prices, check the Bangladesh Railway fare list.
How to Buy Train Tickets: Easy Steps
Booking tickets is simple and can be done in two ways:
- Online Booking: Visit the Bangladesh Railway e-ticket portal or use the official mobile app to select your train, seat class, and pay securely. Book tickets up to 10 days in advance for the best chance at your preferred seat.
- At the Station: Tickets are also available at Santahar Railway Station, Kamalapur Railway Station, and other major railway junctions. Always bring a valid ID.
If you miss out on your preferred train, check for mail trains or passenger train services, or consider other public transports such as buses for your trip.
What to Expect on the Train: Comfort and Facilities
Intercity trains such as Ekota Express, Drutajan Express, Lalmoni Express, Nilsagor Express, and others offer a range of seat classes, including Shovon Chair, Snigdha, AC class seat, and 1st class seat. AC class seats and AC berths provide air conditioning and extra comfort, especially for overnight travel. Shovon 360 and chair cars are popular for regular trips, while Snigdha and AC classes are best for those seeking a more comfortable trip.
You’ll find restrooms and food vendors on board. For longer trips or busy train routes, booking a higher seat class can make your trip more comfortable and quiet.
Main Stops and Route Details
The Santahar to Dhaka route covers about 232 kilometers by train, which is often faster than the road distance due to traffic. The trip passes through important railway junctions like Santahar Junction Station and ends at Kamalapur Railway Station in Dhaka, the country’s largest railway town.
Some trains have extra stoppages at busy stations, like Bogra Train Station or Bir Muktijoddha Sirajul Islam Railway Station, to help more passengers board. The driving distance by road is slightly longer, and buses may take 7–9 hours depending on traffic.
Return Route: Dhaka to Santahar Train Schedule
The same intercity trains operate in the return direction, with similar schedules but different departure and arrival times. Always check the latest Dhaka Train Schedule before planning your return trip.
| Train Name | Train Code | Off Day | Departure (Dhaka) | Arrival (Santahar) | Average Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ekota Express | 705 | None | 10:15 AM | 03:55 PM | 5h 40m |
| Lalmoni Express | 751 | Friday | 03:45 PM | 03:45 AM | 12h |
| Drutajan Express | 757 | None | 08:00 PM | 01:25 AM | 5h 25m |
| Nilsagar Express | 765 | Monday | 06:45 AM | 12:30 PM | 5h 45m |
| Rangpur Express | 771 | Monday | 09:10 AM | 03:03 PM | 5h 53m |
| Panchagarh Express | 793 | None | 11:30 PM | 04:40 AM | 5h 10m |
| Kurigram Express | 797 | Wednesday | 08:45 PM | 02:15 AM | 5h 30m |
| Chilahati Express | 805 | Saturday | 05:00 PM | 10:45 PM | 5h 45m |
Comparing Seat Classes: What Fits Your Needs?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you pick the right seat class for your trip:
| Feature | Shuvon/Shuvon Chair | Snigdha/First Class | AC Seat/AC Berth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ticket Price | Low | Medium | High |
| Comfort Level | Basic seating | Spacious, quieter | Air-conditioned, bedding (berth) |
| Ideal For | Budget travelers | Mid-range comfort | Long trips, overnight travel |
| Availability | Most trains | Selected trains | Selected trains |
If you need extra comfort, especially for overnight trips, choose AC berth or first class seat. For short or daytime trips, Shuvon Chair or Snigdha are good options.
Tips for a Comfortable Train Trip
- Book tickets early, especially for busy train routes and holidays.
- Arrive at the railway station at least 30 minutes before departure.
- Carry your ticket and ID for checks.
- Bring snacks, water, and entertainment for the trip.
- Use a travel planner or informative guides if you’re new to the route.
- If your train is full, check for mail trains or passenger train service as alternatives.
Updates and Improvements in Bangladesh Railway Services
Bangladesh Railway has improved its railway infrastructure and online ticket booking facilities, making it easier for everyone to plan and book tickets. The e-ticketing system provides real-time updates and secure payments. According to a railway official, “Online booking has made it much easier for passengers to secure their seats, especially during holidays.”
The railway sector is also adding more direct trains and upgrading seat distribution for quality seats, especially on busy train routes like Santahar to Dhaka. Numerous trains now run daily, and popular train services are being improved for a more comfortable trip.
Other Transport Options and Related Routes
If you can’t get a train ticket or need to compare, buses and cars are available, but the road distance can be longer and less comfortable due to traffic. For those traveling from or to nearby districts, you can find connections to the Khulna Train Schedule, the Lalmonirhat Train Schedule, the Rangpur Train Schedule, and the Bogra Train.
Santahar is a key railway junction, so you can also catch trains like Simanta Express, Barandra Express, Bogra Express, Dolonchapa Express, Karotoa Express, Padmaragh Express, Rocket Express, Titumir Express, Biman Bandar Panchagarh Express, and Uttara Express, depending on your final destination.
Main Stops and Stoppages
Here are some of the main stops on the Santahar to Dhaka route:
| Station Name | Type |
|---|---|
| Santahar Junction Station | Major railway junction |
| Bogra Train Station | Busy train route stop |
| Bir Muktijoddha Sirajul Islam Station | Important stoppage |
| Kamalapur Railway Station | Central railway town |
Some trains may add extra stoppages for passenger convenience.
FAQ:
How long does the train take from Santahar to Dhaka?
The trip usually takes 6 to 8 hours, depending on the train and stops.
What is the distance from Santahar to Dhaka by train?
The approximate distance is 232 kilometers.
Can I book tickets online for this route?
Yes, Bangladesh Railway offers online ticket booking facilities.
Which trains run between Santahar and Dhaka?
Popular intercity trains include Ekota Express, Lalmoni Express, Drutajan Express, Nilsagor Express, Rangpur Express, Panchagarh Express, Kurigram Express, Chilahati Express, and Burimari Express.
What are the ticket prices for different seat classes?
Ticket prices range from 300 BDT (Shuvon) to 1,472 BDT (AC Berth), depending on your seat class.
Where can I board the train in Santahar?
You can board at Santahar Railway Station, a major railway junction in North Bengal.
Are there mail trains on this route?
Yes, mail trains are available, but they take longer and make more stops than intercity trains.
This guide covers everything you need for a comfortable and informed trip from Santahar to Dhaka by train. For more details, use the Bangladesh Railway official e-ticket portal to check current schedules, book tickets, and get crucial info for your travels.
