What to see in Howrah, India | Howrah travel guides

Botanical Garden

Shalimar

foreigners: Rs.50; Indians: Rs.5

Mar-Sept: 5am-5.30pm; Oct-Feb: 5.30am-5pm

situated in the Southern part of Howrah, about 3km from Howrah station, get there by bus or taxi - depending on traffic it will take you anything between 25-45 minutes

A extraordinary place of vivid nature under the smog filled sky of the city. You will value the silence that is only filled by some birds singing. Nature is wonderfully beautiful here

Santragachhi Jheel

Middle part of Howrah city

7 km from howrah station by train, or 6 km from kolkata via Vidyasagar Setu

Santragachhi Jheel is a large lake, located next to the Santragachhi railway station. This lake attracts large number of migratory birds in the winter months, particularly in December and January. The number has increased in recent years, as migratory birds have started to avoid destinations like the lakes in Alipore Zoo, Kolkata. Birds like Saras Crane from North America and Australia, and many other local migratory birds such as Cotton Pygmy Goose, Comb Duck etc. are spotted here during this season. The lake area is owned by South Eastern Railway, though the Forest Department of West Bengal also looks after the place. Efforts are made by local residents, Forest Department and Railways to improve the environment for the birds. Forest Ministry of the State Government of West Bengal intends to convert the lake to a 'wildlife conservation centre'.

Belur Math

Northern part of Howrah

A visit to the temple is free and so is parking.

about 4 km from Howrah railway station. You can travel there by bus, auto or taxi. It takes 20-25 mins to get there and around 40 mins to return, because this route is longer and becomes more congested. All modes of transportation are easily accessible from adjacent to the Howrah railway station area/Howrah bus stand. Local trains also go th Belur Math, but going by auto, bus or taxi is much better as they drop you off at the entrance of Belur Math.

It's a worthwhile visit. Situated next to the Ganges one can sit on the banks of the river Hoogly during evening time and relax. Across the river Hoogly is the Dakhineshwar Temple.

By travelling with the "Howrah - Belur Math" local train to Belur Math you might catch a glimpse of the oldest operating Railway workshop in India built in 1853.