Bangladesh fits neatly into a longer trip around South Asia. Kolkata is a short drive from the border, the hills of Meghalaya look down on Sylhet, and Kathmandu is barely an hour’s flight from Dhaka. This guide covers the main routes and what to check before you go.
Bangladesh and Kolkata (West Bengal)
The two Bengals share a language and a culture, so it makes sense to see both. The busiest land crossing is Benapole–Petrapole on the Dhaka–Kolkata road. You can also take the direct Maitree Express train between Dhaka and Kolkata, or a short flight.
Bangladesh and Meghalaya or Assam
From Sylhet, the Tamabil–Dawki crossing leads into Meghalaya, with its living root bridges and waterfalls, a short drive from Jaflong. The Akhaura–Agartala crossing near Brahmanbaria connects with Tripura.
Bangladesh and Darjeeling or Sikkim
Fly to Bagdogra, or cross at Burimari–Changrabandha in the far north of Bangladesh, then drive up to Darjeeling.
Bangladesh and Nepal
Direct flights connect Dhaka with Kathmandu in about an hour. Nepal offers visas on arrival to most nationalities, so it is an easy add-on to the start or end of your trip.
Visas for combined trips
- Bangladesh: if you enter Bangladesh twice, or arrive overland, apply for a Bangladesh visa in advance rather than relying on visa on arrival.
- India: you need a visa before you travel. India’s e-visa is only valid at certain airports, seaports and land checkposts, so check that your chosen border crossing accepts it, or apply for a regular visa.
- Nepal: visa on arrival for most nationalities.
Sample combined routes
- Two Bengals, 14 days: Kolkata, overland to Bagerhat and the Sundarbans, then Dhaka and Sreemangal.
- Hills and tea, 12 days: Dhaka, Sreemangal and Sylhet, then cross at Dawki for Shillong and Cherrapunji.
- Himalaya and the delta, 14 days: Kathmandu and the Kathmandu Valley, then fly to Dhaka for the Bangladesh highlights.
We plan the Bangladesh part of your trip and meet you at the border or the airport. Tell us your route and we will suggest the best crossing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I cross from India to Bangladesh by land?
Yes, at several official crossings, including Petrapole–Benapole, Dawki–Tamabil and Agartala–Akhaura. You need the correct visas for both countries, and border hours are limited.
How far is Kolkata from Dhaka?
About 250 km by road, which takes most of a day with the border crossing. The flight takes under an hour.
