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Are you planning a thrilling adventure from Kolkata to Dhaka? Look no further! Embark on an unforgettable journey with the long-distance A/C bus services that run between these two captivating cities. But wait, there's more - you'll get to experience a change of bus in Benapole, adding a touch of excitement to your trip. Choose from reputable bus operators like Shyamoli and Greenline, who have offices located conveniently on both sides of the border (Haridaspur in India). For hassle-free bookings, check out the Kolkata and Dhaka articles. Looking for a different mode of transport? How about hopping on one of the local trains from Sealdah station in Kolkata? These trains will transport you to Bangaon in just two hours, with the border located a mere 6 kilometers beyond this station. While local buses may be hard to come by, fear not! Trusty autorickshaws and rickshaws will gladly ferry you from Bangaon station to the border. Once you've reached Benapole, located about 2 kilometers from the border crossing, embark on the next leg of your adventure. Board the buses bound for Jessore and beyond, providing you with an opportunity to explore even more captivating destinations. The journey to Jessore is a mere Tk 30 and takes approximately two hours. If you've opted for the Kolkata to Dhaka bus service, buckle up for an enchanting four to five-hour ride to Haridaspur, also known as Petrapole, on the Indian border side. Although the bus operators provide rest houses, be warned - their staff may not be the friendliest, and the toilets might not live up to your sanitary expectations. Before proceeding to Immigration, double-check with the Bangladesh High Commission that your entry/exit is by road at Benapole. When receiving your Bangladesh visa, ensure that all entries are clearly legible, with no overwriting or cutting. If any mistakes are discovered, kindly request for them to be initialed, signed, and stamped. Taking this precautionary step will help you avoid any border mishaps. Unlike the India-Pakistan border at Wagah, where customs and immigration officials might not always be the friendliest, you'll find the officers at the Kolkata-Dhaka border to be much more hospitable. However, it's worth noting that Indian officials may occasionally demand bribes, while their Bangladeshi counterparts tend to be better behaved. That said, if you opt for the direct buses, you are less likely to encounter such issues. Customs should pose no significant problems, unless you're a Bangladeshi citizen returning home. Prepare for an exhilarating journey and leave the border troubles behind!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Hilsa Mach (Hilsa Fish Curry) is a popular dish in Bangladesh featuring hilsa fish, a local delicacy, cooked in a spicy gravy with mustard oil, turmeric, chili, and other aromatic spices. The curry is typically served with steamy rice.

Khichuri (Mangsho) is a beloved Bangladeshi one-pot meal made from rice, lentils, and various vegetables, often seasoned with meat, especially goat or beef. This hearty dish offers a blend of flavors that can vary depending on regional tastes and preferences.

Chotpoti is a famous street food in Bangladesh made by stir-frying noodles, rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat (such as beef or chicken) in a pan. It's typically seasoned with a blend of spices, soy sauce, and chili sauce, resulting in an enticing fusion of flavors.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing