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How to Get to Khulna

How to Get to Khulna

Khulna Khulna Division, Bangladesh Travel Guide

Airports and Routes

Major Airports Serving Khulna

Jessore Airport (JSR): This stands as the nearest major domestic airport to Khulna city, situated about 70-80 km (43-50 miles) north. It acts as the main aerial gateway for travelerthe chief ofing to Khulna and the Beautiful forest.

International Arrivals

  • Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka: The main international gateway to Bangladesh. All international travelers first arrive here.
  • From Dhaka, domestic flights connect to Jessore.
  • No direct international flights to Jessore (JSR).

Airlines and Availability

Several domestic airlines operate regular flights on the Dhaka (DAC) to Jessore (JSR) route, offering multiple daily flights for travel schedule flexibility.

Domestic Carriers

  • Biman Bangladesh Airlines: The national carrier.
  • US-Bangla Airlines: A popular private airline.
  • Novoair: Another reputable private airline.

Flight Availability

Domestic flight schedules between Dhaka and Jessore maintain stability year-round, with high frequency.

Price Fluctuations

Prices for domestic flights may see slight increases during peak tourist season (November-February) and major public holidays. Booking in advance at these times stands as a good practice. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Jessore Airport Facilities

Jessore Airport (JSR) has a compact facility with basic amenities: a waiting lounge, check-in counters, plus some snack stalls. Do not expect extensive shopping or dining options. Services remain limited to essential flight operations.

Transfer from Jessore Airport to Khulna

Taxi/Private Car

  • This is the most common and convenient transfer option.
  • You can pre-arrange a private car with the place you are staying or a tour operator.
  • The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, traffic dependent.
  • Expect to pay around ৳2,000 to ৳3,500. Negotiate fare if hiring directly.

Local Bus

  • This is a cheaper but less convenient option.
  • You take local transport from the airport to Jessore bus stand, then board a public bus to Khulna.
  • This option is much cheaper but significantly slower and less comfortable.
  • It involves multiple transfers and can be crowded.

Land Transportation to Khulna

Border Crossing

The Benapole-Petrapole border crossing to India is approximately 80 km to the northwest of Khulna. A a current passport and visa for entry/exit are requirements. Immigration and customs checks can consume time.

Train Connections

Khulna Railway Station offers regular train services to Dhaka (Sundarban Express, Chitra Express) and Rajshahi. The journey to Dhaka lasts around 7-8 hours. AC Chair or AC Cabin classes come with recommendations for comfort. Advance booking is strongly recommended.

Long-Distance Buses

Khulna boasts excellent bus connections to major cities like Dhaka (6-8 hours), Chittagong, and Barishal. Sonadanga Bus Terminal serves as the main hub. Reputable companies include Shohag Paribahan, Hanif Enterprise, Eagle Paribahan, and Green Line Paribahan (AC services). AC services offer greater comfort and speed. Advance booking is advisable.

Driving & Road Conditions

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving generally receives no recommendation for foreign tourists in Bangladesh. Road conditions pose challenges, local driving styles can become aggressive and unpredictable, and clear road signage often falls short.

Legal Aspects & Advice

  • Legal Requirements: An International Driving Permit (IDP) stands as a legal requirement alongside your home country's driver's license.
  • Consider hiring a car with a local driver for inter-city travel for safety and convenience.
  • For inter-city travel, opt for AC train classes or AC bus services for a more comfortable and safer journey.

Road Conditions & Safety

The principal highways generally feature pavement but vary in quality, with potholes and irregular ground common. Congestion frequently arises, especially near urban centers. Rural roads may be unpaved or poorly maintained.

Driving Dynamics

  • Driving Style: Local driving can become chaotic. Drivers often disregard traffic rules.
  • A mix of vehicles (buses, trucks, cars, rickshaws, motorcycles) shares the road.
  • Night Driving: Specifically risky due to poor lighting, unmarked obstacles.

Sea/River Arrivals in Khulna

Khulna's identity deeply intertwines with its rivers, making water transportation an unique and historically significant way to arrive.

Rocket Steamer Service

  • The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) operates the "Rocket Steamer" service.
  • This unique overnight journey connects Khulna (via Mongla) to Dhaka (Sadarghat) through a beautiful network of rivers.
  • First Class cabins (basic private sleeping) come with recommendation for comfort and privacy.

Sundarbans Cruises & Terminals

Khulna is a main starting point for multi-day cruises into a Unesco world heritage site mangrove forest. These are typically organized tours on private vessels, combining transportation, accommodation, and guided exploration.

Local Connections

  • For typical tourist river travel within Bangladesh, no specific immigration procedures apply upon arrival at river ports in Khulna.
  • The main launch/steamer terminals in Khulna, like Jelakhana Ghat or Rupsa Ghat, are easily accessible from the city center.
  • Upon disembarking, you find cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws (CNGs), or taxis to your accommodation.

Departure Information from Khulna

  • Air Travel (from Jessore Airport - JSR): Arrive at the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Allocate 1.5 to 2 hours for the car journey from Khulna to Jessore Airport.
  • Train/Bus: Arrive at the station or terminal at least 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Rocket Steamer: Arrive at the ghat well in advance, perhaps 1 hour.
  • Exit Fees/Taxes: No specific departure tax for flying from Bangladesh.
  • No exit fees apply for tourists departing by land or river from Khulna.

Departure Facilities & Tips

Airport/Station Amenities

Jessore Airport provides limited facilities for departing travelers, mainly a basic waiting area. Khulna Railway Station/Bus Terminals offer basic waiting areas and often feature local food stalls.

What to Expect

  • Do not expect extensive amenities at Jessore Airport or local terminals.
  • Local food stalls offer snacks or drinks before your journey.
  • Basic waiting areas are the norm.

Travel Reconfirmation

Reconfirm your flight, train, or bus schedule a day or two before your departure. Local schedules can sometimes change.

Departure Tips

  • Ensure your onward travel documents are easily accessible.
  • Confirm departure times directly with the carrier or your hotel.
  • Keep your phone charged for any last-minute notifications.

Seamless Air Departure

Pre-booking your airport transfer from Jessore to Khulna simplifies your arrival, especially after a long international flight.

Comfortable Land Travel

For inter-city travel, notably between Dhaka and Khulna, opt for AC train classes or AC bus services for a more comfortable and safer journey.

Unique River Experience

If taking the Rocket Steamer, arrive at the ghat (dock) well in advance of departure to find your cabin or spot and settle in comfortably. The the experience is rustic but memorable.

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General Travel Needs

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Specialized Travel Tools

Visa Services

Consumer visa application at IVisa or direct passport service at VisaHQ.

Connectivity

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Electronics

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