Kamalapur Railway Station, built in the 1960s, is an architectural marvel. Its roof has a domed umbrella design.
I arrived at the station almost an hour before my departure. People were walking and sitting around, but there weren't heavy crowds.
I bought my $9.70 ticket online 10 days in advance and chose the Snigdha class — which was pricier than first class ($5.02) but cheaper than a sleeper car ($11.50).
Snigdha cars offer air conditioning and reclining seats, which I thought would be necessary for such a long journey.