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Getting Around Sylhet

How to reach Sylhet from Dhaka and move around the city and tea country safely and without overpaying.

Dhaka to Sylhet

  • Train: intercity services such as Parabat Express, Jayantika Express, Kalni Express and Upaban Express run between Dhaka and Sylhet. Book on the official Bangladesh Railway e-ticket site.
  • Bus: several coach companies run day and night services, including air-conditioned coaches; the trip usually takes 5–7 hours depending on traffic.
  • Air: domestic flights from Dhaka take under an hour and are operated by Biman and private Bangladeshi airlines.

In and around the city

  • CNG auto-rickshaw — the green three-wheeler; agree the fare before getting in.
  • Cycle rickshaw — good for short hops in the centre.
  • Ride apps such as Pathao for motorbike and car rides where available.
  • Car with driver — best for day trips to Jaflong, Ratargul, Bisnakandi or Sreemangal; hire through your hotel or a known agency.

Travel safely

  • Avoid road travel late at night on highways where possible.
  • In the monsoon (June–September), check river and road conditions before trips to hill and haor areas.
  • Keep small notes for fares; drivers often lack change.

Official sources

Common questions

How long is the train from Dhaka to Sylhet?

Roughly 6–8 hours depending on the service; check the Bangladesh Railway e-ticket site for current times.

What is a CNG in Sylhet?

A gas-powered three-wheeled auto-rickshaw — the most common taxi for short trips.

Checked 22 October 2026. Rules, fees and timetables change — confirm with the official source before you travel or pay. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.

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