Howrah In West Bengal Map
Located on the west bank of the Hooghly River, Howrah is a bustling city in the state of West Bengal, India. It is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and scenic beauty. This comprehensive travel guide will take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Howrah.
Top Attractions
Howrah has a number of top attractions that are a must-visit for any traveler. The Howrah Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks of Kolkata, is a cantilever bridge that connects Howrah to Kolkata. The Belur Math Shrine, a spiritual center founded by Swami Vivekananda, is another popular attraction. The Santragachi Jheel, a lake surrounded by lush greenery, is a great spot for bird watching and picnics. The Vidyasagar Setu, a cable-stayed bridge that offers stunning views of the Hooghly River, is also worth a visit.
Hidden Gems
Howrah has a number of hidden gems that are off the beaten path. The Shibpur Botanic Garden, a serene botanical garden with a wide variety of flora, is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Ramakrishna Math, a monastery that houses the room where Swami Vivekananda stayed, is another hidden gem. The Jagannath Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, is also worth a visit.
Food Scene
Howrah is famous for its delicious food, with a variety of street food and fine dining options. Some must-try dishes include the famous Kolkata biryani, puchka, jhal muri, and rasgulla. The Ghatsila Mutton Curry, a spicy mutton curry from the nearby town of Ghatsila, is also a must-try.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Howrah on a budget? There are a number of budget-friendly tips that can help you save money. One tip is to take public transportation instead of taxis. Another tip is to eat at local street food stalls instead of expensive restaurants. Finally, consider staying at budget-friendly guesthouses or homestays instead of luxury hotels.
Outdoor Adventures
Howrah has a number of outdoor adventures that are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Some popular activities include bird watching at the Santragachi Jheel, hiking in the nearby hills and forests, and exploring the riverbanks on a boat tour.
Historical Landmarks
Howrah is steeped in history, and there are a number of historical landmarks that are worth a visit. The Howrah Rajbari, a palace built by the British in the 19th century, is a great example of colonial architecture. The St. John’s Church, one of the oldest churches in Kolkata, is another historical landmark.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? Howrah has a number of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep everyone entertained. The Science City, a science museum and park, is a great place to learn and have fun. The Eco Park, a large park with a variety of activities and attractions, is another great option.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Looking for something unique and off the beaten path? Howrah has a number of experiences that are sure to surprise and delight. The Howrah Flower Market, one of the largest wholesale flower markets in Asia, is a vibrant and colorful experience. The Kumortuli Pottery Village, where artisans make clay idols for festivals, is another unique experience.
Natural Wonders
Howrah is home to a number of natural wonders that are worth exploring. The Botanic Garden, with its wide variety of flora, is a great place to appreciate the beauty of nature. The nearby hills and forests are also great for hiking and exploring.
Vibrant Nightlife
Howrah has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. Some popular options include the Monkey Bar, a rooftop bar with great views, and the Roxy, a classic nightclub with live music.
Local Markets
Howrah has a number of local markets that are great for shopping and exploring. The Howrah AC Market, a large indoor market with a variety of goods, is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts. The Howrah Wholesale Fish Market, one of the largest fish markets in Kolkata, is also worth a visit.
Beaches and Mountains
Howrah is located near both the beaches and the mountains, making it a great base for exploring both. The nearby town of Mandarmani has a beautiful beach with a variety of activities. The nearby hills and forests are also great for hiking and exploring.
Cultural Immersion
Howrah is a great place to immerse yourself in Indian culture. The Belur Math Shrine, with its spiritual teachings and practices, is a great place to learn about Hinduism. The Kumortuli Pottery Village, where artisans make clay idols for festivals, is another great example of Indian culture.
Art and Music Scene
Howrah has a thriving art and music scene, with a number of galleries and venues showcasing local talent. Some popular options include the Academy of Fine Arts, a gallery showcasing local artists, and the Rabindra Sadan, a venue for music and theater performances.
Walking Tours
Howrah is a great city for walking tours, with a number of historical and cultural landmarks to explore. Some popular walking tours include the Howrah Bridge Walk, which takes you on a tour of the iconic bridge, and the Belur Math Walk, which takes you on a tour of the spiritual center.
Architectural Marvels
Howrah is home to a number of architectural marvels, with a variety of styles and influences. The Howrah Rajbari, with its colonial architecture, is a great example of British influence. The Belur Math Shrine, with its fusion of Indian and Western styles, is another great example.
Historical Sites
Howrah is steeped in history, and there are a number of historical sites that are worth a visit. The Howrah Rajbari, a palace built by the British in the 19th century, is a great example of colonial architecture. The St. John’s Church, one of the oldest churches in Kolkata, is another historical site.
Biking Routes
Howrah is a great city for biking, with a number of routes that offer scenic views and cultural landmarks. Some popular biking routes include the Howrah Bridge Circuit, which takes you on a tour of the iconic bridge, and the Belur Math Circuit, which takes you on a tour of the spiritual center.
Wellness Retreats
Howrah is a great place to relax and rejuvenate, with a number of wellness retreats that offer yoga, meditation, and other holistic practices. Some popular options include the Ananda Spa, a luxury spa and wellness center, and the Shreyas Yoga Retreat, a holistic retreat center.
Adventure Sports
Howrah has a number of adventure sports that are perfect for adrenaline junkies. Some popular activities include river rafting on the Hooghly River, paragliding in nearby hills, and zip lining through the forests.
With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re all set to explore the best of Howrah in West Bengal. Whether you’re looking for culture, adventure, or relaxation, Howrah has something for everyone.