Planning a return trip from the lush tea gardens of Sylhet back to the capital? Choosing the railway is often the smartest move. The roads can be unpredictable with traffic, but the train journey offers a relaxing view of the countryside and a reliable arrival time. Whether you are a regular commuter or a tourist wrapping up a vacation, knowing the exact Sylhet to Dhaka train schedule is the first step to a smooth journey.
Why Choosing the Train Matters
Traveling by train in Bangladesh is more than just getting from point A to point B. On the Sylhet to Dhaka route, you get to witness some of the most scenic views in the country. As the train leaves Sylhet, it passes through Srimangal and the Lawachara National Park areas. You see rolling hills and endless greenery that you simply miss when taking a bus or flight.
Beyond the scenery, safety and comfort are huge factors. Trains provide legroom that buses cannot match. You can walk around, use the washroom, and even buy snacks from the pantry car. For families traveling with children or seniors, the train provides a much less stressful environment. Plus, the schedule is generally maintained better than highway transport, which often faces unexpected delays due to congestion.
Intercity Sylhet to Dhaka Train Schedule
Bangladesh Railway operates several Intercity trains on this route. These are the most popular choices because they are faster and more comfortable than mail or local trains. There are four main Intercity trains you should know about: Parabat Express, Jayantika Express, Upaban Express, and Kalni Express.
Each train has a specific departure time and a specific “off-day” (a day when it does not run for maintenance). Knowing the off-day is critical so you do not show up at the station on the wrong day.
Quick Overview Table
Here is the complete schedule at a glance.
| Train Name | Train No. | Departure Time (Sylhet) | Arrival Time (Dhaka) | Off-Day |
| Kalni Express | 774 | 06:15 AM | 01:00 PM | Friday |
| Jayantika Express | 718 | 11:15 AM | 07:10 PM | Thursday |
| Parabat Express | 710 | 03:45 PM | 10:40 PM | Tuesday |
| Upaban Express | 740 | 10:30 PM | 05:30 AM | Wednesday |
(Note: Times are subject to minor changes by Bangladesh Railway, but these are the standard operating hours.)
In-Depth Look at Each Train
To help you decide which option suits you best, let’s look at the specifics of each train.
Kalni Express (774)
If you are an early riser, the Kalni Express is your best bet. Leaving shortly after sunrise, it gets you into Dhaka by early afternoon. This is perfect if you have business meetings or events to attend later in the day. The Kalni Express is known for having fewer stops compared to others, which often makes the journey feel quicker.
- Best for: Business travelers and those wanting to reach Dhaka before evening.
- Food: Has a pantry car, but options might be lighter since it is a morning train.
Jayantika Express (718)
This train leaves just before noon. It is a great option if you want to have a relaxed breakfast in Sylhet before heading to the station. You will arrive in Dhaka in the evening. The downside is that since it travels during the peak of the day, it can sometimes face delays at crossings near the capital.
- Best for: Families and tourists who prefer a late start to the day.
Parabat Express (710)
The Parabat Express is a favorite for many. It departs in the late afternoon. You get to see the sunset over the tea gardens during the first few hours of the trip. By the time it gets dark, you are well on your way, arriving in Dhaka just before midnight.
- Best for: Travelers who want to maximize their day in Sylhet before leaving.
Upaban Express (740)
This is the night owl’s choice. Departing late at night, the Upaban Express allows you to sleep through the journey. You arrive in Dhaka early in the morning, fresh and ready for the day. This option also saves you the cost of a hotel room for one night.
- Best for: Budget travelers and those who can sleep easily on moving vehicles.
Sylhet to Dhaka Train Ticket Price
Understanding the cost is just as important as the timing. Ticket prices vary depending on the class you choose. Bangladesh Railway offers several classes ranging from basic non-AC seats to luxurious sleeping berths.
The Sylhet to Dhaka train ticket price is quite affordable compared to air travel. Below is a breakdown of the standard ticket prices. Please keep in mind that these are the base fares. If you buy online, a small service charge usually applies.
| Seat Class | Description | Price (Approximate BDT) |
| Shovon | Basic seat, Non-AC | 315 – 340 |
| Shovon Chair | Comfortable chair, Non-AC | 375 – 380 |
| Snigdha | AC Chair, comfortable | 719 – 725 |
| AC Seat | AC Cabin seat | 863 – 870 |
| AC Berth | AC Sleeping berth (Cabin) | 1288 – 1300 |
Choosing the Right Class
- Shovon Chair: This is the most popular choice. It offers a decent reclining seat with fans overhead. It is value for money. The windows open, so you can enjoy the fresh air.
- Snigdha (AC Chair): If you cannot tolerate heat or dust, go for Snigdha. The windows are sealed, and the air conditioning is usually quite strong. It is quieter than Shovon.
- AC Berth: This is primarily available on night trains like the Upaban Express. You get a bed with bedding provided. It is the most expensive but ensures you get proper rest.
Mail and Local Trains
If you are on an extremely tight budget or if tickets for Intercity trains are sold out, you might consider the Mail train. The primary option here is the Surma Mail.
- Train Name: Surma Mail (Train No. 9)
- Departure: Usually late evening (around 11:00 PM, but varies)
- Arrival: Next morning.
- Price: Very low (Shovon is often under 200 BDT).
Warning: Mail trains stop at almost every single station. The journey takes much longer than Intercity trains. They are also often crowded, and cleanliness might not match the standard of trains like Parabat or Kalni. Only choose this if you have no other option or are looking for a raw, local experience.
How to Purchase Your Tickets
Getting a ticket can sometimes be a challenge due to high demand. You have two main ways to buy them: online or at the station counter.
1. Online Booking (Recommended)
This is the hassle-free method. You can buy tickets up to 10 days in advance.
- Register: You need to register on the Bangladesh Railway “Eticket” website or use the “Rail Sheba” app using your NID (National ID) and mobile number.
- Search: Select Sylhet as the starting station and Dhaka as the destination. Pick your date.
- Select Seats: The system will show available seats. You can choose your preferred coach and seat numbers manually if they are open.
- Payment: Pay using mobile financial services (like bKash, Nagad) or a debit card. The ticket is sent to your email or app.
Pro Tip: Tickets are released online at 8:00 AM. For holidays or weekends, log in exactly at 8:00 AM because seats vanish within minutes.
2. Station Counter
You can visit the Sylhet Railway Station to buy tickets physically.
- Go to the counters marked for “Intercity Advance Tickets.”
- Bring a copy of your NID.
- Lines can be long, especially before Eid or public holidays.
Station Information and Contacts
While direct phone numbers for station masters change frequently, knowing the general layout helps.
Sylhet Railway Station
Located near the Kean Bridge entrance of the city, the station is a beautiful structure designed to look like a tea leaf.
- Location: Kadamtali, Sylhet.
- Facilities: Waiting rooms (separate for men and women), VIP lounge, prayer room, and small snack shops.
- Inquiry: You can usually dial 131 from any mobile in Bangladesh to reach the national railway inquiry service for updates on train locations and schedule changes.
Dhaka (Kamalapur) Railway Station
This is the largest station in the country.
- Arrival: When you arrive here, you will find taxis, CNGs, and ride-sharing services waiting outside the main gate.
Read More:
- Dhaka to Narail Train
- Dhaka to Rajshahi Train
- Dhaka to Khulna Train Schedule
- Akhaura to Dhaka Train Schedule Bus
- Dhaka to Jamalpur Train Schedule
- Dhaka to Kushtia Train Schedule
- Dhaka to Chattogram Train Schedule
- Dhaka to Sreemangal Train
- Dhaka to Bhairab Train Schedule
- Dhaka to Faridpur Train Schedule
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions regarding the Sylhet to Dhaka train schedule.
How long does the train take from Sylhet to Dhaka?
The journey typically takes between 6 to 8 hours, depending on the train and the number of stops. Kalni Express is usually the fastest.
Q: Can I buy a standing ticket if seats are full?
A: Yes. If seat tickets are sold out, you can buy a “Standing Ticket” from the station counter on the day of travel. You will not have a reserved seat and will have to stand in the aisles or corridors.
Q: Do these trains have Wi-Fi?
A: Currently, most trains do not have reliable public Wi-Fi. It is best to rely on your own mobile data. Network coverage is generally good along the route, except for some forest areas near Lawachara.
Q: What is the distance between Sylhet and Dhaka by train?
A: The railway distance is approximately 319 kilometers.
Q: Is it safe to travel at night on the Upaban Express?
A: Yes, the Upaban Express is generally safe. Railway police are present on board. However, always stay awake or keep valuables secured if you are traveling alone in a non-AC compartment.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Sylhet to Dhaka by train is a wonderful experience that combines comfort with the beauty of rural Bangladesh. Whether you choose the speed of the Kalni Express, the convenience of the Parabat Express, or the overnight journey of the Upaban Express, you now have the knowledge to plan properly. Remember to check the Sylhet to Dhaka train schedule before you head to the station and try to book your tickets online to avoid the rush. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring your trip is stress-free.
