If you are planning to travel from Bangladesh to Kolkata via Agartala, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the journey. This guide will cover everything from the starting point in Cumilla to the final destination in Kolkata.
Day of Travel
(Since the journey starts from Cumilla, all details and calculations are based on this starting point.)
Step 1: Cumilla to Akhaura
- Train: Take the Chattala Express at 9 AM.
- Ticket Price: 60 BDT per person.
- Note: The train might arrive a bit early or late.
Step 2: Akhaura Junction to Agartala Border
- Rickshaw Ride: The 6 km journey costs 100 BDT.
- Tip: Negotiate the fare to avoid being overcharged.
- Travel Tax: Pay 1000 BDT at the tax office.
Step 3: Travel Tax and Immigration
- Stamping Tax Receipt: Get it stamped in the adjacent room. Officials might try to solicit a bribe if they see a high dollar endorsement on your passport. Be firm and smart in your responses to avoid this.
- Bangladesh Immigration: Queue up to complete the immigration process.
- With Agartala Entry Mentioned: You can easily clear immigration.
- Without Agartala Entry Mentioned: You might need an agent, costing around 500 BDT.
- Checkpoint: Show your passport once more before heading to Indian immigration.
- Indian Immigration:
- Your body and belongings will be checked.
- Fill out a form with your details and submit it along with your passport to the immigration officer.
- The officer might ask basic questions and request to see your hotel booking slip.
- After clearing immigration, have your bags scanned.
Step 4: Entering India
- After clearing the gate, you are now in India.
- Auto-Rickshaws: Available to take you to your next destination.
- Currency Exchange: Exchange a small amount of BDT for rupees (they might give you only 70 rupees for 100 BDT).
Step 5: Visiting Agartala
- Local Sightseeing: If you have time, visit nearby locations like Raj Bari.
- Auto Fare: 50 rupees.
- Entry Fee: 100 rupees for foreigners.
- Travel to Agartala Airport: Take an auto for 150 rupees.
At Agartala Airport
- Entering the Airport: Show your passport and ticket to collect your Indigo boarding pass.
- Hand Baggage: May be allowed if it fits the weight limit.
- Security Check: Remove all items like belts and watches, and take out laptops from bags for scanning.
- Power Banks: Power banks over 10,000 mAh are not allowed and will be kept with the Indian Airport Authority.
Flight and Arrival in Kolkata
- Boarding the Flight: Complete all formalities and board your flight to Kolkata.
- Kolkata Airport: Avoid overpriced taxis at the airport. Walk out to find more reasonably priced taxis.
- Fare: Approximately 400 rupees to Marquis Street, Kolkata.
Sightseeing in Kolkata
You can cover most of the following places in a day:
Howrah Bridge
Victoria Memorial (Entry fee: 100 rupees)
St. Paul's Cathedral (Entry fee: 10 rupees)
Jorasanko Thakur Bari (Entry fee: 50 rupees)
Birla Planetarium (Entry fee: 120 rupees)
New Market
College Street Coffee House
Agartala Rajbari
Tips for Air Travelers
- Do not carry power banks over 10,000 mAh.
- Avoid bringing lotions or powders.
- Always reserve cars outside the airport.
- Mention you are visiting from Bangladesh when buying tickets for sites in Kolkata.
- Avoid numerous spa centers you might come across while roaming the streets.
Returning to Bangladesh
If there are no issues with customs in Bangladesh, you can safely return home.
Conclusion
By following this guide, you can navigate your journey from Bangladesh to Kolkata smoothly. Safe travels!
