Howrah(India) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Howrah, the Hyatt Regency Howrah is a top choice, located just steps from the Howrah Bridge and offering panoramic views of the Ganges River. Its modern amenities, Indian-inspired dining, and proximity to Howrah Railway Station make it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Another excellent option is the Taj Hotel Howrah, blending colonial-era architecture with luxury services, perfect for those seeking heritage charm. For budget-conscious visitors, City Hotel Howrah provides clean, comfortable rooms at affordable rates, close to major attractions. Staying near the Howrah Bridge or railway hub ensures easy access to Kolkata’s cultural sites and transportation networks.

For an authentic experience, consider homestays in local neighborhoods like Kankurgachi or Shyambazar, where you can interact with residents and enjoy home-cooked meals.

The Howrah Bridge and Howrah Railway Station areas are the most convenient for accommodations. These districts offer excellent connectivity to Kolkata city center, local markets, and riverfront attractions. The Howrah City Center is bustling with life—ideal for travelers who enjoy vibrant street scenes, traditional shops, and religious sites like the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin. Areas near Hastinapur and Rabindra Sarobar are quieter, safer, and suitable for families or those seeking a peaceful stay. Avoid industrial zones; instead, prioritize hotels along main roads or riverside promenades for better security, cleanliness, and scenic views.

Visitors to Howrah should not miss the Ganges morning rituals at the riverbank ghats, where devotees perform prayers, bathe, and offer flowers—deeply spiritual and visually striking. Explore the Howrah Cathedral, a stunning example of British colonial architecture, and wander through Howrah Market, a sensory delight filled with spices, textiles, and street food. Take a ride on the historic Kolkata-Howrah railway line, one of India’s busiest commuter routes, for a true glimpse into daily Indian life. During festivals like Diwali or Kumbh Mela, join the Ganges Night Light Festival, where illuminated boats and lanterns create a magical atmosphere along the riverbanks.

Howrah offers rich West Bengal cuisine. Must-try dishes include Mughlai curry, a fragrant meat stew served with steamed rice, and Biryani, especially the Howrah-style Biryani with aromatic basmati and tender meat. Don’t miss Puchka (Pani Puri)—crispy hollow balls filled with spicy tamarind water and potatoes—available at every street corner. For healthy options, try Dhokla (fermented chickpea cake) or Savara (spiced lentil dumplings). At Anand Restaurant, sample their famous Chhena Poda, a sweet dessert made from cottage cheese and baked to perfection—a beloved local favorite. Pair your meal with jolokia chai (spicy milk tea) for a full sensory experience.

Driving in Howrah is not recommended due to heavy traffic, especially around the Howrah Bridge and railway station during peak hours. Public transport is more efficient: the Kolkata Metro Line 1 (Red Line) stops directly at Howrah Station, while buses and auto-rickshaws cover most local routes affordably. Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Ola for reliable, metered rides. Walking along the Ganges Riverfront or main boulevards is also safe and rewarding, offering immersive views of local life. If you must drive, avoid rush hours and stick to designated parking zones near hotels or malls to prevent congestion and fines.

Howrah Riverfront Park features playgrounds, shaded walkways, and open lawns—perfect for children to run and parents to relax. The Howrah Cathedral offers quiet interiors and beautiful stained-glass windows, making it a great spot for family photos and cultural learning. Howrah Zoo, though modest in size, houses native animals like Bengal tigers, giraffes, and monkeys—ideal for kids’ curiosity. Evening visits to the Ganges sunset viewing points provide breathtaking backdrops for family memories. Avoid midday heat; plan outings for early mornings or late afternoons to ensure comfort and safety. Many local parks also host weekend cultural events and storytelling sessions.

The best time to visit Howrah is from October to March, when temperatures range between 15–25°C and the weather is dry and pleasant. The monsoon season (June–September) brings heavy rains and humidity, which can disrupt travel plans and cause flooding. Summers (April–June) are extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. If attending festivals like Diwali or Kumbh Mela, book accommodations well in advance—crowds surge and prices rise. Avoid traveling during major Hindu holidays unless you’re prepared for high demand and limited availability.

Evening highlights in Howrah include the Ganges Night Light Festival (during festivals), where floating lanterns and colorful lights illuminate the riverbanks. Howrah Market Night Bazaar comes alive with food stalls, live music, and street performers—perfect for a lively night out. Stroll along the Howrah Riverfront Promenade, enjoying cool evening breezes and views of Kolkata’s skyline across the river. Some hotels offer Ganges dinner cruises with live music and regional cuisine—ideal for couples or groups. For a serene experience, visit Howrah Cathedral at dusk, where soft lighting enhances its architectural beauty and creates a peaceful ambiance.

Howrah Market is the heart of local shopping—stocked with spices, handloom fabrics, fresh produce, and souvenirs. Howrah Shopping Complex houses department stores, electronics outlets, and grocery chains for everyday needs. For traditional crafts, explore Nehru Road and nearby lanes selling West Bengal embroidery, bronze sculptures, and handmade paper umbrellas. Local artisans at Ghat-side stalls sell woven baskets, clay lamps, and painted masks—great for unique gifts. Most vendors accept cash, so carry Indian Rupees. Bargaining is common, especially in open-air markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for better deals.

Howrah is home to several significant religious landmarks. The Church of the Holy Virgin stands as a majestic example of British colonial ecclesiastical design, with intricate stained-glass windows and peaceful interiors. The Howrah Mosque reflects Islamic architectural elegance and hosts daily prayers—visitors may observe rituals respectfully. Near the Ganges ghats, the Shiva Temple draws pilgrims, especially during Mahashivratri and Kumbh Mela. For spiritual insight, visit the Yoga Center near Howrah University, where guided meditation and classical teachings are offered. These sites reflect the city’s religious diversity and provide deep cultural context for travelers.