Crossing Borders from Dhaka to Kolkata for 570 Taka.

**Introduction:**

Embarking on a journey from Dhaka to Kolkata offers a myriad of experiences, from cultural immersion to breathtaking landscapes. What's more enticing is that this adventure can be pursued on a budget, allowing travelers to explore without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we'll delve into a detailed itinerary of the journey from Dhaka to Kolkata, highlighting key aspects and cost-saving tips along the way.

**Starting Point: Komlapur Railway Station**

Our journey commences at Komlapur Railway Station, a bustling hub of activity in Dhaka. On the 14th of March, armed with online booked tickets, my friend and I boarded the Benapole Express (Train 796). Priced at only 480 Bangladeshi Taka per person for the S_CHAIR class, our tickets ensured a comfortable yet affordable journey.

**Onboard Experience:**

The Benapole Express boasts 12 coaches, accommodating nearly 896 passengers. It's advisable to purchase tickets online at least a week in advance to secure your spot. Departing at 11:00 PM, the train journey commenced with a ticket check by the TT shortly after. The train offers two food canteens, ensuring passengers stay refreshed throughout the journey. As we traversed, the sight of Padma Bridge illuminated the night, offering a scenic delight.

**Crossing the Borders: Darshana to Gede**

Arriving at Darshana_halt around 5:00 AM, we transitioned to a Van (Ricksha) for  30 Bangladeshi Taka per person to reach the Gede Border. Upon arrival at the border, we encountered a considerable queue, navigating through the throngs of brokers. It's imperative to exercise caution in such environments. The border office operates from 7 AM to 6:30 PM, facilitating the immigration process smoothly.

**Navigating Noman's Land:**

Following the border procedures, we found ourselves in Noman's Land, a transient zone between the two nations. Opting for another Van (Ricksha) ride at 30 Bangladeshi Taka per person, we hastened towards the Indian Gede Railway Station. Prioritizing promptness in queues is crucial here, given the sizable lines. Once through the Indian border process, we secured tickets at 9:00 AM from Gede/GEDE to Sealdah/SDAH, priced at approximately 25 Indian Rupees (30 Bangladeshi Taka) per person.

**Final Destination: Sealdah Railway Station**

Our journey culminated at Sealdah Railway Station, Kolkata, at 1:15 PM. The station's vibrant atmosphere welcomed us, marking the successful completion of our budget-friendly expedition from Dhaka to Kolkata.

**Cost Breakdown:**

- Komlapur to Darshana_halt (Train Ticket): 480 Bangladeshi Taka

- Darshana_halt to Darshana/Gede Border (Van/Ricksha): 30 Bangladeshi Taka

-Darshana/Gede Border  to Noman's Land(Van/Ricksha): 30 Bangladeshi Taka

- Gede to Sealdah (Train Ticket): 30 Bangladeshi Taka 

Total Cost: [570Tk]