Experience the Maitree Express (3107 & 3108), an exceptional train
journey seamlessly connecting Dhaka in Bangladesh to Kolkata, India. This
exploration delves into the historical background, routes, and essential
details of this noteworthy cross-border express.
Table of contents
History of Maitree express
Journey routes and timings
Ticket information
Return journey
Tips for travellers
History of Maitree Express
Inauguration: Launched on april 14, 2008, by the prime ministers
of bangladesh, sheikh hasina, and india, manmohan singh, the maitree express
was envisioned as more than a mode of transportation.
Symbolic name: "Maitree," derived from the sanskrit
word for "friendship," not only encapsulates the diplomatic relations
between bangladesh and india but also underscores the shared cultural and
historical bonds dating back centuries.
Historical significance: The launch of maitree express marked
a historic moment, reviving direct rail connectivity between dhaka and kolkata
after a hiatus of 43 years. The train aimed to rekindle the rail links that
existed before the 1965 india-pakistan war, further enhancing bilateral relations.
Journey routes and timings:
Maitree express (3107) routes and timing :
Departure at Dhaka:
Start your journey at Dhaka's Cantonment railway station.
Departures at 08:15 am bst
Working days: friday, sunday, and tuesday.
Seamless transit:
The train swiftly passes through the border, with a brief stop for
immigration checks, ensuring a seamless transition from Bangladesh to India.
Arrival at Kolkata:
At the end of this journey you will arrive at Kolkata's howrah
junction
Arrival at 03:30 pm ist
A 7-hour and 45-minute journey, with no scheduled halts for an efficient
travel experience.
Return journey: Maitree express (3108)
Departure at Kolkata
Start your return journey at Kolkata Chitpur station
Departures at 07:10 am IST
Working days: saturday, monday, wednesday.
Seamless transit:
The train swiftly passes through the border, with a brief stop for
immigration checks, ensuring a seamless transition from india to
bangladesh.
Arrival at Dhaka
Finish your return journey at Dhaka Cantonment railway station.
Arrival at 04:05 pm bst
An 08 hour and 25 min journey comes to an end.
Ticketing information:
For now, tickets are only sold at the kamlapur railway station counter.
But it will be soon available for purchase on online platforms.
AC_S class:
Cost: BDT. 3899* per ticket.
Inclusions: luxurious and air-conditioned travel experience.
AC_Chair class:
Cost: BDT. 2599* per ticket. Inclusions: budget-friendly option for a
pleasant journey.
Additional charges:
Travel tax: BDT. 1000 per seat for adults. The travel tax should be paid
before the travel. Bedding charge: BDT. 200 per seat for added comfort.
Return ticket:
You can buy return train ticket to dhaka, bangladesh at fairy palace and
chitpur station in india. However, for optimal convenience, it is
advisable to procure your return ticket from komlapur station in dhaka.
Tips for travelers
Language connections:
Learn a few bangla(bengali language) phrases. "kemon achen"
for greetings, "dhonnobad" for thanks, and "ami [place
name] jete chai" to express your destination.
Local currency:
Keep some bangladeshi taka and indian rupees in your pocket. This
ensures smooth transitions when making small purchases or dealing with
local vendors in both countries.
Navigating issues:
In case of concerns, reach out to the railway police, ticket counter, or
station master. They are your go-to sources for assistance, ensuring a
prompt and reliable resolution.
Safety first:
Exercise caution with food. Avoid consuming anything offered by
strangers to prioritize your well-being.
Emergency contacts:
Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers. Checkout our this page for emergency contact numbers of Bangladesh . A quick response in unforeseen circumstances is crucial.
Document organization:
Keep your travel documents organized. Having tickets, identification,
and necessary permits easily accessible streamlines any administrative
processes.
