West Bengal
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3 Days in Howrah for Street Food Lovers
Howrah is often overshadowed by Kolkata, but its food scene is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From bustling street stalls to century-old sweet shops, this itinerary takes you through the best bites in town. I've spent years exploring these lanes, and these are the spots locals actually love.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Howrah
A mix of iconic landmarks and local flavors, starting with the famous Howrah Bridge and ending with a deep dive into Bengali street food.
Activities
Howrah Bridge & Riverfront Stroll
Start your day with a walk across the iconic Howrah Bridge, soaking in the morning hustle and the views of the Hooghly River. Head to the riverfront near Howrah Station to watch boats glide by and locals going about their day. The area is lively, with chai wallahs and snack stalls adding to the vibe.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the bridge is long!
- Try the masala chai from the stalls near the bridge.
Explore Howrah Railway Station
Howrah Station isn’t just a transit hub—it’s a cultural landmark. Wander through its colonial-era architecture, watch the chaotic yet rhythmic movement of trains and people, and grab a quick bite from the stalls inside. The station has a unique energy, especially in the late morning.
- Keep an eye on your belongings—it’s crowded.
- Try the nimki (savory crackers) from the stalls.
Lunch at a Local Bengali Eatery
Head to a no-frills Bengali restaurant for an authentic thali. Think steamed rice, dal, fish curry (like ilish or rui), and a mix of veg dishes like shukto (bitter gourd stew) and begun bhaja (fried eggplant). The flavors are bold and homely, perfect for a midday meal.
- Ask for the day’s special—it’s usually the freshest.
- Don’t skip the mishti doi (sweet yogurt) for dessert.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Day 2 in Howrah
Dive deeper into Howrah's cultural and culinary scene, exploring historic landmarks and savoring authentic Bengali flavors.
Activities
Visit Belur Math
Start your day with a peaceful visit to Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. The serene campus, blending Hindu, Christian, and Islamic architectural styles, offers a tranquil escape. Don’t miss the main temple dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, where the evening aarti is particularly mesmerizing.
- Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
- Carry a scarf or shawl for the temple
Explore Howrah Museum
Head to the Howrah Museum, a lesser-known gem showcasing fascinating artifacts, including ancient sculptures, coins, and historical documents. The museum’s quiet atmosphere makes it a great spot to learn about the region’s rich heritage without the usual tourist hustle.
- Check for photography rules inside
- The museum is small, so take your time
Lunch at a Traditional Bengali Sweet Shop
Wrap up your day with a hearty Bengali lunch at a local sweet shop. Try classics like 'shorshe ilish' (mustard hilsa fish) or 'chholar dal' with luchi. Save room for mishti doi (sweet yogurt) and roshogolla, a must-have Bengali sweet.
- Ask for seasonal specials
- Try the sandesh if you have a sweet tooth
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Hidden Gems of Howrah
A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and savoring local flavors in Howrah, away from the usual tourist trails.
Activities
Morning at Ramrajatala Ghat
Start your day with a peaceful walk along Ramrajatala Ghat, a serene riverside spot where locals gather for morning rituals. Watch fishermen at work and enjoy the calm before the city wakes up. The ghat offers a raw, unfiltered glimpse into daily life along the Hooghly.
- Carry a camera for candid shots of river life
- Avoid weekends if you prefer fewer crowds
Breakfast at a Century-Old Tea Stall
Head to a tiny, legendary tea stall near Ramrajatala that’s been serving strong, milky chai and crispy kochuri (fried bread) since the British era. The owner still uses traditional brass utensils, and the taste hasn’t changed in decades.
- Try their special 'railway chai'—a local favorite
- Cash only—no digital payments here
Explore the Forgotten Clock Tower
Visit Howrah’s lesser-known but stunning 19th-century clock tower near the old market area. Unlike the famous Howrah Station clock, this one stands quietly in a neighborhood, its mechanical gears still ticking after 140 years. Climb the narrow spiral staircase for panoramic views (if the caretaker allows).
- Ask politely to climb up—locals know the caretaker
- Wear comfortable shoes—stairs are steep