Interstate Passenger Train Schedule (আন্তঃদেশীয় যাত্রীবাহী ট্রেনের সময়সূচি)

The interstate passenger train schedule is your essential roadmap for seamless international rail journeys. These trains connect major cities like Dhaka, Khulna, Kolkata, and New Jalpaiguri offering travelers a comfortable, affordable, and culturally rich alternative to flights.

However, all interstate passenger train services have remained suspended since 18 July 2024 due to operational and diplomatic circumstances. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: historical schedules, train routes, booking procedures, and what to expect when services resume.

What Are Interstate Passenger Trains?

Interstate passenger trains are cross-border rail services operating between two sovereign nations. In the context of Bangladesh and India, these trains represent decades of diplomatic cooperation and people-to-people connectivity.

Currently, three main trains serve this corridor:

• Maitree Express: Connects Dhaka (Bangladesh) with Kolkata (India)
• Mitali Express: Runs between Dhaka Cantonment and New Jalpaiguri (India), with select services to Kolkata
• Bandhan Express: Links Khulna (Bangladesh) with Kolkata (India)

These services are jointly operated by Bangladesh Railway and Indian Railways, making them official government-backed transportation modes. The interstate passenger train schedule is negotiated bilaterally and published by both railway authorities.

Expert Insight: Cross-border rail travel reduces carbon emissions by up to 75% compared to short-haul flights, according to International Energy Agency data. For the Dhaka-Kolkata route (approximately 375 km), trains remain the most sustainable option.

Complete Interstate Passenger Train Schedule

Understanding the interstate passenger train schedule is critical for planning your journey. Below is the last officially published timetable before the July 2024 suspension.

Train Departure Schedule

Train Name	Leaving Bangladesh	Arrives in India	Leaving India	Arrives in Bangladesh
Mitali Express	Dhaka Cantonment 08:15 (BST)	Kolkata 16:00 (IST)	Kolkata 07:10 (IST)	Dhaka Cantonment 16:05 (BST)
Bandhan Express	Khulna 13:30 (BST)	Kolkata 18:10 (IST)	Kolkata 07:10 (IST)	Khulna 12:30 (BST)
Mitali Express	Dhaka Cantonment 21:50 (BST)	New Jalpaiguri 07:15 (IST)	New Jalpaiguri 11:45 (IST)	Dhaka Cantonment 22:30 (BST)

Important Notes:

• BST = Bangladesh Standard Time (UTC+6)
• IST = Indian Standard Time (UTC+5:30)
• There is a 30-minute time difference between the two countries
• All timings are subject to border customs and immigration clearance
• Journey durations include stops at border stations (Darshana/Gede for Maitree, Petrapole/Benapole for Bandhan)

Interstate Passenger Train Operating Days

Day	Bangladesh to India	India to Bangladesh
Friday	Maitree Express (3107)	Maitree Express (3109)
Saturday	Maitree Express (3110)	Maitree Express (3108)
Sunday	Mitali Express (3130), Maitree Express (3107)	Bandhan Express (3129), Mitali Express (3132)
Monday	Mitali Express (3131)	Maitree Express (3108)
Tuesday	Maitree Express (3107)	Maitree Express (3109)
Wednesday	Maitree Express (3110), Mitali Express (3132)	Maitree Express (3108)
Thursday	Bandhan Express (3130), Mitali Express (3131)	Bandhan Express (3129)

Operating Days & Train Numbers

Each interstate service operates on specific days with unique train numbers. Here’s the breakdown:

Maitree Express Schedule

• Train 3107: Dhaka → Kolkata (Friday, Sunday, Tuesday)
• Train 3108: Kolkata → Dhaka (Saturday, Monday, Wednesday)
• Train 3109: Kolkata → Dhaka (Friday)
• Train 3110: Dhaka → Kolkata (Saturday, Wednesday)

Mitali Express Schedule

• Train 3130: Dhaka → Kolkata/New Jalpaiguri (Sunday)
• Train 3131: Dhaka → New Jalpaiguri (Monday, Thursday)
• Train 3132: New Jalpaiguri → Dhaka (Sunday, Wednesday)

Bandhan Express Schedule

• Train 3129: Kolkata → Khulna (Sunday, Thursday)
• Train 3130: Khulna → Kolkata (Thursday)

Pro Tip: Always double-check your train number against your travel date. Booking the wrong day could strand you at the border.

How to Book Interstate Train Tickets

Booking tickets for international rail routes requires extra preparation. Follow this step-by-step process:

Step 1: Check Service Status

Before anything else, verify whether services have resumed. Contact:

• Bangladesh Railway: www.railway.gov.bd

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Valid visa for the destination country
• Return ticket proof (if applicable)
• Vaccination certificates (if mandated)

Step 3: Purchase Tickets

Tickets can typically be bought:

• At designated railway counters (Kamlapur, Khulna, Chitpur)
• Through authorized travel agents
• Online via official portals (when available)

Step 4: Arrive Early

Reach the station at least 2 hours before departure for immigration processing.

Benefits of Traveling by Interstate Train

Why choose rail over air for Bangladesh-India travel?

1. Cost-Effective: Fares are typically 40-60% lower than budget flights
2. Baggage Allowance: Generous luggage limits compared to airlines
3. Scenic Routes: Witness rural Bengal landscapes, rivers, and countryside
4. No Airport Hassles: Avoid long security queues and distant airports
5. Cultural Experience: Interact with fellow travelers from both nations
6. Eco-Friendly: Lower carbon footprint per passenger kilometer
7. Direct City-to-City: Stations are centrally located (unlike airports)

Drawbacks & Common Challenges

Despite the advantages, international rail travel has limitations:

Challenge	Impact	Mitigation
Service Suspensions	Travel plans disrupted	Always have backup flight options
Border Delays	1-3 hour stops for customs	Carry snacks and entertainment
Limited Frequency	Only 3-4 weekly services per route	Book weeks in advance
Time Zone Confusion	Missed connections	Set dual time zone watches
Documentation Errors	Denied boarding	Triple-check visa validity

Common Mistakes Travelers Make

Avoid these critical errors when using the interstate passenger train schedule:

Mistake 1: Ignoring Time Zone Differences

Bangladesh is 30 minutes ahead of India. A departure listed as “08:15 BST” means 07:45 IST. Many travelers miss trains by confusing the two.

Mistake 2: Assuming Daily Services

Unlike domestic trains, interstate services run only on specific days. Maitree Express doesn’t operate on Mondays or Thursdays from Dhaka.

Mistake 3: Inadequate Visa Preparation

Your visa must cover the exact entry date. If your train crosses on Friday but your visa starts Saturday, you’ll be refused boarding.

Mistake 4: Overpacking

Border customs inspect luggage thoroughly. Keep valuables accessible and declare restricted items.

Mistake 5: Not Checking Service Updates

Political events, natural disasters, or pandemics can halt services overnight. The July 2024 suspension caught many travelers off-guard.

Step-by-Step Travel Guide

Before Your Journey

1. 60 days ahead: Apply for Indian/Bangladeshi visa
2. 30 days ahead: Monitor service announcements
3. 14 days ahead: Book train tickets (when sales open)
4. 3 days ahead: Confirm departure times and platform numbers
5. Day before: Pack documents, snacks, and local currency for both countries

At the Station

1. Arrive 2 hours early
2. Complete immigration forms
3. Submit luggage for security screening
4. Board according to coach numbers
5. Keep passport accessible throughout

During the Journey

1. Stay seated during border crossings
2. Follow crew instructions for customs
3. Exchange small currency for onboard purchases
4. Enjoy the scenery—the Sunderbans region is particularly beautiful

FAQs About Interstate Passenger Train Schedule

When will interstate trains resume between Bangladesh and India?

As of early 2026, there is no official resumption date. Services were suspended on 18 July 2024. Monitor Bangladesh Railway updates.

What is the fastest train from Dhaka to Kolkata?

The Maitree Express covers the Dhaka-Kolkata route in approximately 11-12 hours including border formalities. This is the only direct rail option between the two capitals.

How much does an interstate train ticket cost?

Fares vary by class (AC Chair, First Class, Sleeper). Historically, prices ranged from BDT 2,500–6,000 depending on service and accommodation type.

Can I book interstate train tickets online?

Online booking was available through IRCTC and Bangladesh Railway portals before the suspension. Upon resumption, digital booking is expected to return.

What documents do I need for interstate train travel?

You need: (1) Valid passport, (2) Valid visa for destination country, (3) Return/onward ticket, (4) Completed immigration forms, and (5) Any health certificates required by bilateral agreements.

Are there food services on these trains?

Yes. All three services (Maitree, Mitali, Bandhan) provide onboard catering with both Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine options. You may also carry sealed packaged foods.

Conclusion

The interstate passenger train schedule between Bangladesh and India represents more than just timetables—it’s a lifeline for millions of travelers, traders, and families separated by borders. While the current suspension (since 18 July 2024) has temporarily halted these historic services, preparation is key.