howrah

Why to Travel Howrah

Howrah, located on the western bank of the Hooghly River in West Bengal, is one of the most important gateways to eastern India. Often seen as the twin city of Kolkata, Howrah is famous for its historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and bustling railway station. The city offers a mix of colonial history, beautiful river views, spiritual sites, and local markets. Traveling to Howrah allows visitors to experience authentic Bengali culture, taste delicious street food, and explore iconic landmarks that represent the heritage of West Bengal.

Must Visit Places in Howrah

1. Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu)
One of the most famous landmarks of India, Howrah Bridge connects Howrah with Kolkata. This massive steel bridge over the Hooghly River is an engineering marvel and one of the busiest bridges in the world.

2. Belur Math
Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission and a major spiritual center. The architecture beautifully blends Hindu, Islamic, and Christian styles, symbolizing unity among religions.

3. Botanical Garden (Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden)
This garden is known for the famous Great Banyan Tree, which spreads over several acres and looks like a small forest. It is a peaceful place for nature lovers.

4. Santragachi Jheel
A large lake known for attracting migratory birds during winter. It is a perfect spot for bird watching and peaceful walks.

5. Mullick Ghat Flower Market
Located near the Howrah Bridge, this is one of the largest flower markets in India. The colorful flowers and bustling atmosphere make it a great place for photography.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Howrah is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing. Winter months are perfect for exploring the city and enjoying festivals like Durga Puja, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the region.

Things to Do

• Walk across the iconic Howrah Bridge and enjoy views of the Hooghly River.

• Visit Belur Math to experience spiritual peace and beautiful architecture.

• Explore the Botanical Garden and see the massive Great Banyan Tree.

• Watch migratory birds at Santragachi Jheel during winter.

• Explore local markets and taste famous Bengali sweets and street food.

• Take a ferry ride on the Hooghly River for scenic views of the city.

How to Reach

By Air:
The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata), about 15 km from Howrah.

By Train:
Howrah Junction is one of the largest railway stations in India and is well connected to almost every major city in the country.

By Road:
Howrah has good road connectivity with nearby cities and states through national highways and local bus services.

Where to Stay

Visitors can find many accommodation options in and around Howrah and Kolkata. Some good choices include:

• Budget hotels and guest houses near Howrah Station

• Mid-range hotels in central Kolkata

• Luxury hotels along the Hooghly River and Park Street area

Staying in nearby Kolkata can also give you access to more dining and entertainment options.

Final Thoughts

Howrah is more than just a railway hub—it is a city full of culture, spirituality, and historical charm. From the iconic Howrah Bridge to the peaceful Belur Math and lush Botanical Garden, the city offers unique experiences for travelers. Whether you are visiting for a short stopover or planning to explore West Bengal, Howrah provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s heritage and everyday life.