Howrah

Howrah

About Howrah

Howrah, one of the most historic and culturally rich places in West Bengal, is sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to Kolkata” due to its close proximity to Kolkata and its renowned role in the region's history. It is also renowned for its iconic bridges, colonial architecture, ancient temples, beautiful riverfronts, botanical gardens and traditional Bengali culture. Howrah is situated on the west bank of the river Hooghly, which is an important industrial, commercial and transport centre of eastern India. The city is also famous for the Howrah Bridge, which is one of the most beautiful engineering marvels in India and connects Howrah with Kolkata, providing breathtaking views of the Hooghly River. Howrah is also the site of the famous Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, renowned for its gigantic Great Banyan Tree and the historic Howrah Railway Station, one of the busiest railway stations in India. Belur Math, Santragachi Jheel, Gadiara, Andul Rajbari and the ancient temples of the area are also popular attractions to visit. Equally, the city is a unique combination of spirituality, heritage, nature and traditional Bengali lifestyles. Howrah is a place to witness the grand spectacle of magnificent bridges and calm riverbanks, visit the ancient temples, discover historical palaces, enjoy a boat ride or taste Bengali delicacies.

Best Time to Visit Howrah

The best time to visit Howrah is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, exploring historical sites, visiting temples, enjoying river activities and discovering the city's cultural attractions. Visiting Belur Math, the Indian Botanic Garden, Howrah Bridge and the scenic river banks is very comfortable during the winter months (November to February). October is also a great time to visit as the region is also celebrated during Durga Puja with colourful pandals, traditional rituals, cultural performances and festive decorations. During the monsoon season (June to September), there will be heavy rainfall and the surrounding landscape will be greener and more refreshing, but there may be a chance of flooding or waterlogging, which can be a hindrance to outdoor activities. The Summer months (April-June) can be hot and humid, and midday touring can be fairly uncomfortable.

Howrah: Places, Experiences & Food
Places to Visit in Howrah

• Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu)
• Vidyasagar Setu
• Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden
• Belur Math
• Howrah Railway Station
• Santragachi Jheel
• Gadiara
• Vivekananda Setu
• Bally Bridge
• Hooghly Riverfront
• Garchumuk Deer Park
• Geonkhali
• Fort Mornington
• Shibpur Botanical Garden
• Avani Riverside Mall
• Pancharatna Temple, Amta
• Melai Chandi Temple
• Siddheshwari Kali Temple
• Shree Shree Anukul Thakur Temple
• Dhulagori
• Uluberia
• Bagnan
• Amta
• Sankrail
• Bauria
• Gadiara River Confluence
• Narendrapur Rajbari
• Bagnan Rajbari

Things to Do in Howrah

• Architecture of the iconic Howrah Bridge
• Hooghly River from the riverside ghats
• Explore the peaceful surroundings of Belur Math
• Spiritual teachings and heritage of Ramakrishna Math
• Indian Botanic Garden and admire its enormous Great Banyan Tree
• Nature walks through the beautiful botanical gardens
• Relaxing boat ride along the Hooghly River
• Photography around Howrah Bridge and Vidyasagar Setu
• Historic Howrah Railway Station and its impressive architecture
• Santragachi Jheel and enjoy birdwatching, especially during the migratory bird season
• Historical heritage of Andul Rajbari
• Peaceful riverside getaway at Gadiara
• Witness the beautiful confluence of the Hooghly and Rupnarayan rivers at Gadiara
• Religious ceremonies and festivals at Belur Math
• Grand celebrations of Durga Puja in the city
• Scenic drive across Vidyasagar Setu
• Traditional markets and shopping areas of Howrah
• Local culture and lifestyle of traditional Bengali neighbourhoods
• Day trip to Garchumuk and explore its natural surroundings
• Beautiful riverside villages and experience rural Bengal
• Local handicraft markets and traditional shops
• Bengali sweets and traditional street food
• Peaceful evening walks along the Hooghly River

What to Eat in Howrah

• Macher Jhol
• Shorshe Ilish
• Chingri Malai Curry
• Kosha Mangsho
• Kolkata-Style Biryani
• Luchi and Aloor Dum
• Radhaballabhi
• Koraishutir Kochuri
• Ghugni
• Kolkata-Style Puchka
• Churmur
• Kathi Roll
• Mughlai Paratha
• Telebhaja
• Beguni
• Aloo Chop
• Mochar Chop
• Vegetable Chop
• Muri Ghonto
• Shukto
• Aloo Posto
• Cholar Dal
• Bengali Thali
• Basanti Pulao
• Dhokar Dalna
• Potoler Dolma
• Kheer Kadam
• Mihidana
• Sitabhog
• Patishapta
• Pithe Puli
• Payesh
• Malpua