Get in

When traveling between Kolkata and Dhaka, there are several options to choose from. Many people prefer the long-distance A/C bus services, which offer a comfortable journey with a change of bus in Benapole. Shyamoli and Greenline are reliable bus operators with offices on both sides of the border. If you prefer trains, you can take a local train from Sealdah station in Kolkata, which will take you to Bangaon in about 2 hours. From there, you can easily reach the border by autorickshaw or rickshaw. In Benapole, the bus stop is located about 2 km from the border crossing, from where you can catch buses to Jessore and beyond. It's important to note that if you have booked a bus from Kolkata to Dhaka, the journey will take around 4-5 hours to reach Haridaspur on the Indian side of the border, also known as Petrapole. While the bus operators have rest houses, their staff may not be very friendly, and the facilities may not be well-maintained. Before going through Immigration, make sure that your Bangladesh High Commission has specified entry/exit by road at Benapole. Take care to check your visa for any overwriting or cutting, as it could cause problems at the border. Overall, the customs and immigration officials at both sides of the border are generally more cooperative compared to the India-Pakistan border at Wagah. However, if you are traveling by direct buses, you are less likely to encounter any issues with customs.

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