I rode the longest train route in Bangladesh for $10, and the 12 ½-hour journey was surprisingly scenic

Mahmudul IslamMay 5, 2024, 18:11 IST

The longest train route in Bangladesh goes from Dhaka to Panchagarh. Md Zahirul Islam

I traveled 12 ½ hours from Dhaka to the northernmost border district of Panchagarh in Bangladesh.
Despite some delays and lackluster food, the trip was pretty thrilling.

Asia is home to some of the fastest trains in the world — but train travel is all about the journey for me.

In March, I took the longest train route in Bangladesh. The whole trip is nearly 400 miles long — stretching from the bustling capital of Dhaka to the northernmost district of Panchagarh.

I bought a ticket for 1,073 Bangladeshi Taka, or about $9.70, and prepared to watch the diverse landscapes of my country pass by.

Here's what the train ride was like.

I started my trip at Kamalapur, the largest train station in Bangladesh.

Kamalapur Railway Station is the largest train station in the country. Md Zahirul Islam

The train left 14 minutes late.

I found my seat in Snigdha class.Md Zahirul Islam

The first leg of the journey felt unfamiliar.

I wasn't used to seeing these views of Dhaka.Md Zahirul Islam

Crossing the Bangabandhu Bridge was delightful

It took 30 minutes for the train to cross the Bangabandhu Bridge.Md Zahirul Islam

I wasn't very impressed by the food on the train.

I order a lunch box with chicken, bread, and a vegetable cutlet. Md Zahirul Islam

Later on, I went back to the snack stand for another meal.

The iftar box had an array of different foods. Md Zahirul Islam

The views out my window were beautiful, especially at sunset.

I loved watching the sunset on the train. Md Zahirul Islam

I reached Panchagarh later than I expected.

My train was delayed by almost two hours.Md Zahirul Islam

Even with the delays and lackluster food, I'm really glad I took the trip.

I really enjoyed traveling across my country by train. Md Zahirul Islam

I flew Ryanair for the first time. It may be Europe's biggest airline, but its endless extra fees mean I'm not convinced.

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