Silk City Express (Train No. 765 Dhaka–Rajshahi; Train No. 766 Rajshahi–Dhaka) is the flagship intercity service connecting Dhaka with Rajshahi — Bangladesh's silk capital, university city, and gateway to the ancient archaeological Varendra region. The name honours Rajshahi's centuries-old silk weaving tradition, which produced some of the finest rajshahi silk muslin fabric in pre-Partition Bengal.
The outbound service (765) departs Dhaka Kamalapur in the morning and arrives in Rajshahi approximately 5–6 hours later, passing through Sirajganj and Natore. The return (766) departs Rajshahi in the morning. Class options: Snigdha (AC chair), AC Berth, and Shovan Chair.
The journey from Dhaka to Rajshahi crosses the Jamuna River via the Bangabandhu Bridge (visible from the train — a spectacular industrial structure) before entering the flat agricultural northwest. Natore is a significant intermediate stop, historically notable as the site of the Natore Rajbari palace complex from the Mughal-Nawab era.
What to see in Rajshahi: The city is ideal for a weekend trip or extended stay. Key attractions: (1) Padma (Rajshahi) River Embankment — a long, pleasant riverside promenade with evening markets; (2) Varendra Research Museum — Bangladesh's oldest museum (est. 1910), housing outstanding Buddhist and Hindu stone sculptures from the Pala and Sena dynasties; (3) Puthia Temple Complex (30 km from Rajshahi) — a remarkable cluster of 5 Hindu temples including Bangladesh's largest Shiva temple; (4) Rajshahi University campus — one of Bangladesh's most beautiful campuses with century-old trees; (5) Mango orchards (April–June) — Rajshahi produces Bangladesh's finest mangoes including Langra, Himsagar, and Fazli varieties.
Ticket tip: The Rajshahi corridor has fewer trains than Chittagong or Sylhet, meaning demand is concentrated. Book Snigdha class on Silk City Express at least 7 days ahead during weekends and holiday periods.