If you are looking for a convenient and affordable way to travel from Dhaka, Bangladesh to Kolkata, India, you might want to consider taking the Maitree Express train. This is an international train service that connects the two cities and runs four times a week. In this article, we will provide you with some useful information about the Maitree Express train, including its schedule, ticket price, station, and immigration process.
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What is the Maitree Express train?
The Maitree Express train (Bengali: মৈত্রী এক্সপ্রেস) is a fully air-conditioned express train that was launched in 2008 as a symbol of friendship between Bangladesh and India. It is the first modern-day international train service between the two countries and covers a distance of about 375 kilometers. The train has two types of seat classes: AC Chair and AC Cabin. The train also has a pantry car that serves food and drinks to the passengers.
Maitree Express train schedule:
The Maitree Express train runs four times a week, twice by Bangladesh Railway (BR) and twice by Indian Railway (IR). The train departs from Dhaka Cantonment station at 08:15 (BST) and arrives at Kolkata station at 18:10 (IST) on Fridays and Sundays (BR) and Saturdays and Wednesdays (IR). The return train departs from Kolkata station at 07:10 (IST) and arrives at Dhaka Cantonment station at 18:05 (BST) on Saturdays and Mondays (BR) and Fridays and Tuesdays (IR). The train takes about 10 hours to complete the journey, including the immigration formalities at the border stations.
Maitree Express runs from Dhaka Cantonment Station every day (except for Thursday) 8:15 am and reached Kolkata station at 6:10 pm, On the return Journey from Kolkata station start 7:10 am and reached Dhaka Cantonment Station 6:05 pm .
| From | Departure | To | Arrival | Off Day |
| Dhaka | 8:15 (BST) | Kolkata | 18:10 (IST) | Thursday |
| Kolkata | 7:10 (IST) | Dhaka | 18:05 (BST) | Thursday |
Maitree Express train ticket price:
The Maitree Express train ticket price varies depending on the seat class and the currency. The ticket price for AC Chair class is 1955 Taka or 12 USD, and for AC Cabin class is 2935 Taka or 20 USD. The ticket price includes a 15% VAT and a 500 Taka or 8 USD travel tax for exiting Bangladesh. The ticket price does not include any visa fees or other charges that may apply for entering India. Children under 5 years of age can get a 50% discount on the ticket price.
To buy Maitree Express train ticket You have to go to Dhaka Railway Station and must have a Passport with Indian Visa. There are two type of ticket exist in Maitree Express one is AC seat(cabin) and the other is AC Chair
| Seat Class | Price |
| AC Chair | 20 USD /2570 Taka |
| AC First seat /Cabin | 30 USD / 3605 Taka |
Where to collect tickets and station?
You can book your tickets online through the official websites of Bangladesh Railway or Indian Railway, or through authorized agents or counters. You can also collect your tickets from any National Rail station in Bangladesh or India that has self-service ticket machines. You do not have to collect your tickets from the station you are traveling from; you can choose any station that is convenient for you. However, you must collect your tickets before you board the train and have them with you throughout the journey.
The Maitree Express train operates from Dhaka Cantonment station in Bangladesh and Kolkata station in India. These are both major railway stations that have various facilities and services for passengers, such as waiting rooms, restrooms, luggage storage, food stalls, ATMs, etc. You can reach these stations by public transport, such as buses, taxis, rickshaws, etc., or by private vehicles.
The Immigration process:
The immigration process for traveling by Maitree Express train is similar to traveling by air or land. You need to have a valid passport, visa, and other documents required by both countries. You also need to fill out immigration forms and customs declarations at the border stations. The immigration formalities take place at Darsana station in Bangladesh and Gede station in India. You have to get off the train at these stations and go through the immigration checkpoints with your luggage. The immigration officers will check your documents, stamp your passport, scan your luggage, and issue you boarding passes for the next segment of the journey. The immigration process may take up to two hours depending on the number of passengers and the security situation.
Tips for traveling by Maitree Express train:
Here are some tips to make your travel experience by Maitree Express train more enjoyable and hassle-free:
- Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and secure your preferred seat class.
- Check your passport validity and visa requirements before you travel. Apply for your visa well in advance and carry all the necessary documents with you.
- Arrive at the station at least one hour before departure time to collect your tickets, check-in your luggage, and go through security checks.
- Carry some snacks, drinks, books, games, or other entertainment items to keep yourself occupied during the long journey.
- Respect the customs and cultures of both countries and follow the rules and regulations of the train service.
- Enjoy the scenic views of the countryside and the urban landscapes along the way.
Conclusion
The Maitree Express train is a great option for travelers who want to explore the cultural and historical ties between Bangladesh and India. It offers a comfortable, convenient, and affordable way to travel between Dhaka and Kolkata. By following the information and tips provided in this article, you can have a smooth and memorable journey by MAITREE EXPRESS train.
