Howrah

Introduction

You will find Howrah situated on the western bank of the Hooghly River, positioned directly opposite its twin city, Kolkata. Located within the state of West Bengal, this area serves as an essential industrial and transportation hub for the region.

As you navigate the local geography, you will recognize Howrah as a primary gateway to Kolkata. You can access the neighboring city through the prominent Howrah Bridge or by traveling through the Howrah railway station.

Before you go

Before you arrive in Howrah, you should familiarize yourself with its unique identity as a twin city located on the western bank of the Hooghly River. You may find interest in the local history, where the modern urban landscape evolved from several distinct villages—including Salica, Harirah, Cassundeah, Ramkrishnopoor, and Battar—which eventually merged into a single city. The name itself carries various historical interpretations, potentially linked to an early 18th-century village or the local geography of mud and water.

As you navigate the city, you will encounter numerous neighborhoods that maintain a strong sense of community, often centered around local clubs and playgrounds. These areas provide a distinct local character as you explore the different regions of the city.

Getting there

You can reach Howrah via several modes of transport, including train, metro, car, bus, and ferry. The East–West Line of the Kolkata Metro offers a fast route from Esplanade to Howrah Maidan, traveling beneath the Hooghly River as part of India's first underwater metro service. If you prefer traveling by rail, there are three major stations: Howrah, which is located near the city center; Santragachi, serving West Howrah; and Shalimar, serving Shibpur. Smaller stations such as Dasnagar, Padmapukur, Ramrajatala, and Tikiapara also serve specific neighborhoods on the South Eastern Line.

For those traveling by road, you can cross into Howrah using one of four bridges: Howrah Bridge, Vidyasagar Setu, Vivekananda Setu, or Nivedita Setu. Major highways like the Grand Trunk Road and NH 19 also terminate in the vicinity. Alternatively, you can take a bus from various termini including Howrah Bus Terminus, Kolkata Central Bus Terminus, or Nabanna Bus Terminus. Crossing the Hooghly River by ferry is another convenient option; you can board at several jetties on the Kolkata side—such as Bagbazar, Armenian, Fairlie, Chandpal Ghat, and Babughat—and arrive at various points on the Howrah side including Howrah Station, Ramkrishnapur Ghat, Botanical Garden, Bandhaghat, and Golabari.

Getting around

Information regarding transportation and local transit options within the area is not provided.

Where to stay

You can find budget-friendly accommodations with a sense of history and character in the area near the railway station. One heritage property offers a homey atmosphere with airy rooms and cordial staff, situated within walking distance of both the bus stand and the train station.

• The Howrah Hotel features a large garden and provides neat, clean rooms with attached baths.
• Samrat Palace is another option located on GT Road.

What to see and do

Explore the diverse landmarks of Howrah, from its iconic infrastructure to serene natural spaces. You can cross the historic Howrah Bridge or witness the scale of Vidyasagar Setu, a massive cable-stayed bridge. For a taste of local history and heritage, visit the Rail Museum near Howrah Station to see vintage locomotives, including a steam locomotive captured during war and the oldest remaining shunting locomotive in India. If you prefer nature, find tranquility in the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, where you can admire the Great Banyan tree's massive canopy amidst a peaceful atmosphere. In the winter months, visit Santragachi Jheel to spot various migratory birds, such as the Saras Crane and Cotton Pygmy Goose.

Experience the local culture through its unique architecture and spiritual sites:

• Visit the Bangeswar Mahadeb Temple to see a towering four-headed statue of Shiva and view the Hooghly River from a nearby deck.
• Explore the Bhot Bagan Math, the first Tibetan Buddhist temple on the plains of India.
• View the Kolkata West Gate in Salap, which takes inspiration from the Brandenburg Gate.
• Experience the cosmos at the Howrah Planetarium and Astronomical Research Centre, featuring 3D shows about the solar system.
• Visit the large Howrah Maidan Idgah Masjid or enjoy the greenery and tall structures of Belilious Park.

When to go

You can experience Howrah's tropical wet-and-dry climate depending on your preference for weather. If you visit during the summer monsoon, you should prepare for the wet season characterized by a good deal of rainfall.

Alternatively, you can travel during the dry season, which spans from late autumn through spring. During these months, very little precipitation falls, providing a drier experience.

Three days in Howrah

Day one, you can begin your journey by crossing the Howrah Bridge to experience the bustling atmosphere of the city. You can explore the local area and take in the sights near the Hooghly River before heading toward the East.

Day two, you can travel through the various neighborhoods including Shibpur and the areas surrounding the Grand Trunk Road. You can also navigate the transit lines to see different parts of West Bengal.

Day three, you can visit the local landmarks such as Howrah Maidan or explore the surroundings of the nearby districts to complete your stay in the region.