5 Indian railway stations that take you to other countries

If you love travelling by train, how about travelling from India to another country via train? It's not an impossible idea, trust us. India shares borders with seven countries, and while most borders can be crossed by road or air, there are also train options, which means you can travel by train to some of these neighboring nations. Curious by now? Read on to find out the five Indian railway stations that serve as gateways to international destinations, offering a unique cross-border travel experience.

Haldibari Railway Station, situated about 4.5 km from the Bangladesh border in West Bengal, plays a vital role in connecting India and Bangladesh through Chilhati Station. This rail link was officially opened in December 2020, with the Mitali Express commencing its service in 2021. Starting from New Jalpaiguri Junction, the train travels to Dhaka, with a stop at Haldibari.

Petrapole, India’s busiest border railway station, is located in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district and serves as a vital link between India and Bangladesh. It is the departure point for the Bandhan Express, which connects Kolkata to Khulna in Bangladesh, functioning as a crucial transit hub for both passengers and freight. The journey offers a fascinating view of the Indo-Bangladesh border, but travelers must possess a valid passport and visa to board the train.

Jaynagar Railway Station, located in Bihar's Madhubani district, is just 4 km from the India-Nepal border and serves as a gateway to Nepal via Kurtha Station in Janakpur. The resumption of passenger rail services between the two countries allows travelers to undertake cross-border journeys without requiring a passport or visa. This initiative has greatly simplified travel and enhanced connectivity between India and Nepal.

Located in West Bengal's Malda district, Singhabad serves primarily as a freight transit station, playing a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of goods between India and Bangladesh. Its strategic connection to Rohanpur Station in Bangladesh and its significance as a hub for freight trains bound for Nepal streamline cross-border trade. While passenger train services are limited, Singhabad remains a key player in bolstering India's commercial ties with neighboring countries.

Radhikapur, situated in Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, serves as a zero-point railway station on the Indo-Bangladesh border and a crucial transit hub for freight and goods. It directly connects to Bangladesh's Biral Railway Station, enabling seamless trade between India’s Assam and Bihar states. Focused primarily on freight operations, Radhikapur plays a pivotal role in strengthening the India-Bangladesh rail network and fostering economic cooperation. Its strategic position makes it a key asset in regional trade and logistics.