Crossing Bangladesh border at Agartala

[ManuDani]

Namastè . Anybody knows if it is possible to obtain the Bangladesh visa crossing at Agartala (Tripura) and then proceed to Kolkata trought Dacca? I will be there at the end of december 2025.

 

[Admin]

Namastè ManuDani and welcome to the forum!

Since you are planning this for the end of December 2025, you need to be very careful with your timing and paperwork.

1. Can you get a Visa at the border (Akhaura Checkpost)? No. Do not plan on this. While "Visa on Arrival" is available at international airports (like Dhaka), it is rarely issued at land borders like Agartala-Akhaura without prior permission. Tourists are frequently turned back.

2. Where to get the Visa in Agartala? You must apply at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala city before you go to the border.

• Location: Kunjaban, near the Circuit House (about 2-3 km from the city center).
• Process: You need to fill out the online form (visa.gov.bd), print it, and submit it with your passport and photos.
• Time Warning: Processing usually takes 3 to 4 working days. Since you are traveling at the end of December, please account for the Christmas holidays (Dec 25) when the mission will likely be closed. If you arrive on a Friday, you might be stuck until the next week.

3. Crucial Tip: "Port of Exit" When you apply for the visa, you must specify your route correctly to avoid issues when leaving Bangladesh:

• Entry Port: Akhaura (Agartala).
• Exit Port: You must select Benapole (Haridaspur) or Darshana (Gede) if you are proceeding to Kolkata.
• Warning: If your visa doesn't explicitly mention "Benapole" as the exit, the border guards may refuse to let you cross into Kolkata, forcing you to go back to Dhaka to get a permit change.

Summary: Do not go straight to the border. Go to the High Commission in Agartala first, and allow at least 3 days for the visa sticker.

Have a safe trip! The bus journey from Agartala to Dhaka is short and scenic.