The Sylhet to Dhaka train route spans approximately 233 kilometers and is one of the busiest train routes in Bangladesh. Four main intercity trains operate on this route: Parabat Express, Jayantika Express, Upaban Express, Kalani Express, and the Surma Mail train. These trains offer various seating classes, including Shuvon Chair, First Seat, Snigdha, AC, and AC Berth, with ticket prices ranging from 375 Taka to 1,288 Taka, including 15% VAT.
We know how important accurate train information is when planning your journey. That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide with all the details you need about the Sylhet to Dhaka train service.
Sylhet to Dhaka Train Schedule
The train service between Sylhet and Dhaka is quite robust, with several trains operating daily. The schedule includes both intercity trains and mail express trains.
Intercity trains are faster and offer more comfort compared to mail trains. These high-speed trains accommodate various seating classes to suit different preferences and budgets.
Here’s the current schedule for trains running from Sylhet to Dhaka:
| Train Name | Train Code | Off Day | Departure (Sylhet) | Arrival (Dhaka) | Journey Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parabat Express | 710 | Tuesday | 15:00 | 22:10 | 7 hours 10 minutes |
| Jayantika Express | 718 | Thursday | 08:20 | 16:20 | 8 hours |
| Upaban Express | 740 | None | 22:00 | 05:25 | 7 hours 25 minutes |
| Kalani Express | 774 | Friday | 06:15 | 13:00 | 6 hours 45 minutes |
The Upaban Express is perfect if you prefer overnight travel. You can board in Sylhet at night and arrive in Dhaka early morning, ready to start your day.
Kalani Express offers a morning departure option that gets you to Dhaka by early afternoon. This is ideal for those who prefer daytime travel but need to reach Dhaka with enough time for afternoon activities.
Mail Express Train Schedule
In addition to intercity trains, there’s also a mail express train that serves the Sylhet to Dhaka route:
| Train Name | Off Day | Departure (Sylhet) | Arrival (Dhaka) | Journey Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surma Mail | None | 18:45 | 09:15 | 14 hours 30 minutes |
The Surma Mail train takes longer than intercity trains, with a journey time of about 14 hours and 30 minutes. However, it offers more affordable ticket options and runs every day without any off days.
Sylhet to Dhaka Train Ticket Price
Bangladesh Railway offers various seating classes to accommodate different comfort levels and budgets. The ticket prices include a 15% VAT.
Here’s a breakdown of the current ticket prices from Sylhet to Dhaka:
| Seat Category | Ticket Price (Taka) |
|---|---|
| Shuvon Chair (Non-AC Regular Seats) | 375 |
| First Seat | 575 |
| Snigdha | 719 |
| AC Chair | 863 |
| AC Berth | 1,288 |
The Shuvon Chair is the most economical option, while the AC Berth offers the highest level of comfort with sleeping accommodations. The AC class provides air-conditioned seating, making your journey more comfortable, especially during hot weather.
First Seat and Snigdha classes offer a good balance between comfort and affordability. They’re popular choices for many travelers on this route.
How to Book Sylhet to Dhaka Train Tickets
Booking your train ticket has become much easier in recent years. Gone are the days when you had to stand in long queues at the station. Now you have multiple options to secure your ticket.
Online Booking
The Bangladesh Railway e-ticketing system makes the ticket booking process simple and convenient:
- Create an account using your email and phone number
- Select Sylhet as your departure station and Dhaka as your destination
- Choose your journey date and preferred ticket class
- Review the available trains and select your desired schedule
- Complete payment using mobile banking, credit cards, or other online payment methods
- Download and print your ticket to present during travel
The online booking system allows you to book tickets up to 10 days in advance. This is particularly useful during peak travel seasons when tickets sell out quickly.
Station Counter Booking
If you prefer the traditional method, you can still purchase tickets at the railway station:
- Visit Sylhet Railway Station
- Provide your travel details to the ticket officer
- Pay in cash to receive a printed ticket
We recommend arriving at the station at least 30 minutes before the ticket counter opens, as queues can get long, especially during holidays and weekends.
Mobile App Booking
The official Bangladesh Railway app “Rail Sheba” offers another convenient way to book tickets:
- Download the app from your app store
- Register with your National ID (NID) or birth registration number and phone number
- Book tickets, check schedules, and manage reservations
- Get real-time seat availability updates
- Pay securely through the app
The mobile app is particularly useful for checking seat availability and making last-minute bookings when you’re on the go.
Train Classes and Facilities
Bangladesh Railway offers various classes of seating to cater to different comfort preferences and budgets. Here’s what you can expect from each class:
Shuvon Chair
This is the most economical option with basic seating. The seats are arranged in rows and are suitable for short to medium journeys. While not luxurious, they provide a comfortable enough experience for budget travelers.
First Seat
First Seat offers more comfortable seating with better legroom than the Shuvon Chair. The seats are usually arranged in a 2+2 configuration, providing a bit more space for passengers.
Snigdha
Snigdha class offers cushioned chairs with good legroom and comfort. This class is a popular choice for those seeking a balance between comfort and affordability.
AC Class
The AC class features air-conditioned coaches with comfortable seating. This is ideal for summer travel when temperatures can get quite high.
AC Berth
AC Berth provides sleeping accommodations in air-conditioned coaches. These are perfect for overnight journeys, allowing you to arrive at your destination well-rested.
Most trains on this route offer basic amenities such as toilets and drinking water. Some trains also have food vendors who sell snacks and beverages during the journey.
Travel Tips for Sylhet to Dhaka Train Journey
To make your train journey from Sylhet to Dhaka smooth and enjoyable, here are some helpful tips:
- Book in advance: Especially during weekends and holidays, tickets sell out quickly
- Check off days: Always verify the train’s off days before planning your journey
- Arrive early: Reach the station at least 30 minutes before departure
- Carry ID: Keep your ID card handy, as it may be required during ticket checking
- Pack light: There’s limited storage space on trains
- Bring snacks and water: While some trains offer food service, it’s always good to have your supplies
- Keep valuables safe: Always keep your belongings within sight
- Download the Rail Sheba app: For real-time updates on train status
The journey offers beautiful views of Bangladesh’s countryside, including rivers, villages, and agricultural lands. If you’re traveling during daylight hours, try to get a window seat to enjoy the scenery.
Comparison with Other Transportation Options
When planning your trip from Sylhet to Dhaka, it’s worth comparing trains with other transportation options:
| Transportation Mode | Travel Time | Price Range (Taka) | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 6-14 hours | 375-1,288 | High |
| Bus | 7-8 hours | 600-1,200 | Medium |
| Flight | 45 minutes | 3,500-7,000 | Very High |
| Private Car | 6-7 hours | 3,000-4,000 | High |
While flights offered by Biman Bangladesh Airlines and US-Bangla Airlines are faster, they’re significantly more expensive. Buses are comparable in price to train tickets but don’t offer the same level of comfort or ability to move around during the journey.
Why Choose Train Travel from Sylhet to Dhaka
There are several advantages to choosing train travel over other modes of transportation:
- Affordability: Train tickets are generally cheaper than flights and comparable to bus fares
- Comfort: Trains offer more legroom and freedom to move around compared to buses
- Scenery: The route passes through beautiful landscapes, including tea gardens
- Reliability: Intercity trains generally maintain good time schedules
- Safety: Train travel is considered one of the safer modes of transportation in Bangladesh
For travelers who value comfort and want to avoid the congestion of road travel, trains are an excellent choice. The Sylhet to Dhaka train route is well-established and serves thousands of passengers daily.
Comparing Sylhet to Dhaka Trains
Each train on this route has its advantages. Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose:
Parabat Express: Known for its reliability and afternoon departure time, making it suitable for those who prefer to travel in the evening.
Jayantika Express: Offers a morning departure, perfect for those who want to reach Dhaka by evening.
Upaban Express: The only overnight train on this route, ideal for those who want to save on accommodation costs and arrive in Dhaka early morning.
Kalani Express: With its early morning departure, it’s perfect for those who prefer daytime travel and want to reach Dhaka by early afternoon.
Surma Mail: Though slower, it offers more affordable tickets and runs every day without any off days.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
If your travel plans change, you should know about the cancellation policy:
- Tickets canceled at least 24 hours before departure are eligible for a partial refund
- A 15% cancellation fee applies to all refunds
- For online bookings, cancellations can be made through the same platform used for booking
- For tickets purchased at stations, you must visit any railway station to process your cancellation
Children under 3 years of age can travel free without a seat, while those between 3 and 12 years may be eligible for reduced fares.
Conclusion
The train journey from Sylhet to Dhaka offers a comfortable, affordable, and scenic way to travel between these two important cities in Bangladesh. With multiple trains operating daily and various ticket classes available, you can choose the option that best suits your schedule, comfort preferences, and budget.
Remember to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, and check the train’s off days before planning your journey. Whether you choose the morning Kalani Express, the midday Jayantika Express, the afternoon Parabat Express, or the overnight Upaban Express, you’re sure to have a pleasant journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest train from Sylhet to Dhaka?
The Upaban Express completes the journey in about 7 hours and 25 minutes, making it one of the fastest trains on this route.
How much does an AC class ticket cost from Sylhet to Dhaka?
An AC class ticket costs 863 Taka, including 15% VAT.
Can I book tickets online for Sylhet to Dhaka trains?
Yes, you can book tickets online through the Bangladesh Railway e-ticketing portal or using the Rail Sheba mobile app.
How far in advance can I book train tickets?
You can book tickets up to 10 days in advance of your travel date.
Are there any overnight trains from Sylhet to Dhaka?
Yes, the Upaban Express departs Sylhet at 22:00 and arrives in Dhaka at 05:25, making it an ideal overnight option.
What facilities are available on the trains?
Most trains offer basic facilities like toilets and drinking water. AC class coaches have air conditioning, and some trains have food vendors selling snacks and beverages.
How early should I arrive at the station before departure?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
What is the railway distance between Sylhet and Dhaka?
The railway distance between Sylhet and Dhaka is approximately 233 kilometers.
Are there discounts available for students or senior citizens?
Yes, Bangladesh Railway offers reduced fares for students with valid ID cards and senior citizens aged 60 and above.
