Indian Railway Stations Offering International Travel Adventures
India’s railway network, one of the largest and most complex in the world, offers a unique travel opportunity: crossing international borders by train. With India’s geographical proximity to seven neighboring countries, train journeys not only provide scenic views but also the convenience of direct connectivity to neighboring nations. Here are five Indian railway stations that serve as gateways to other countries, highlighting the charm of cross-border train travel.
1. Haldibari Railway Station
Situated in West Bengal, just 4.5 km from the Bangladesh border, Haldibari Railway Station connects India to Bangladesh through Chilhati Station. This connection was revived in December 2020 after decades of dormancy. The Mitali Express, introduced in 2021, departs from New Jalpaiguri Junction and travels to Dhaka, stopping at Haldibari along the way. This route symbolizes the growing collaboration between the two nations, making international rail travel seamless for passengers.
2. Petrapole Railway Station
Located in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, Petrapole Railway Station is India’s busiest border station. It links India and Bangladesh via the Bandhan Express, which operates between Kolkata and Khulna. Known for its dual passenger and freight services, this station is vital for Indo-Bangladesh trade and transit. Travelers need valid passports and visas to embark on this culturally enriching journey.
3. Jaynagar Railway Station
Positioned in Bihar’s Madhubani district, Jaynagar Railway Station is merely 4 km from the Indian-Nepal border. Its connection to Kurtha Station in Janakpur, Nepal, offers a hassle-free rail link between the two nations. Unlike most international crossings, this service doesn’t require a passport or visa, fostering closer ties and promoting ease of travel for people on both sides.
4. Singhabad Railway Station
Nestled in the Malda district of West Bengal, Singhabad Railway Station is primarily a freight hub. Its connectivity to Rohanpur Station in Bangladesh facilitates goods movement while also supporting transit to Nepal. Although passenger services are limited, Singhabad plays an instrumental role in bolstering cross-border trade and strengthening India’s economic relationships with its neighbors.
5. Radhikapur Railway Station
Radhikapur, located in Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, acts as a zero-point railway station on the Indo-Bangladesh border. Connecting to Biral Railway Station in Bangladesh, this station is crucial for freight movement between India’s Assam and Bihar regions and Bangladesh. By enhancing bilateral trade and logistics, Radhikapur underscores the importance of rail infrastructure in regional economic development.
The Appeal of Cross-Border Train Travel
These railway stations exemplify the potential of international rail travel in fostering cultural exchange, trade, and connectivity. Whether you’re a curious traveler or a logistics enthusiast, these routes demonstrate the power of railways to transcend borders, offering not just journeys, but unique stories to tell.
