About Haora

Haora, more commonly known as Howrah, it is one of the oldest and most significant urban centers in eastern India. Located on the western bank of the Hooghly River, directly across from Kolkata, Howrah is more than just a twin city or an industrial satellite of the West Bengal capital. It is a city steeped in heritage, resilience, commerce, and craftsmanship, playing a vital role in shaping the economic and cultural narrative of Bengal for over two centuries. The name “Haora” is believed to be derived from the Bengali word Haur, referring to a marshy land or a wetland area, which describes the region’s topography before urbanization took over. Historically, the region saw gradual development under the rule of local chieftains and zamindars, but it rose to prominence during the British colonial era with the establishment of the East India Railway headquarters in 1854 and the construction of the Howrah Railway Station, which would become one of the largest and busiest railway terminals in India. A major transportation and commercial hub, it’s home to the iconic Howrah Bridge, the sprawling Howrah Railway Station, and a vibrant mix of culture, commerce, and colonial architecture. Whether you’re booking the best hotels in Haora for business or seeking cheap hotels in Haora for a quick city break, this riverside city offers a diverse stay experience. If you’re planning an extended stay, there are excellent options for hotel apartments in Haora, luxury hotels in Haora, and budget-friendly 2 star hotel Haora properties. Enhance your trip to Haora with our exciting Kolkata tour packages, offering seamless access to the cultural heart of Bengal just across the iconic Howrah Bridge.

Haora airport Address

Nearest Airport:
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata
Airport Road, Dum Dum, Kolkata, West Bengal 700052
+91-33-2511-8036
apdkolkata@aai.aero 

Travelers seeking hotels in Haora near airport can choose from a variety of properties with pick-up/drop options between Haora and CCU (approx. 30 km).

The Best Time to Visit Haora

The ideal time to visit Haora is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and pleasant for exploring landmarks, riverside strolls, and cultural activities. During this season, plan ahead to access the best places to stay in Haora, and enjoy better deals using Haora hotel price comparison tools online.

How to reach Haora

By air:

Fly into Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), and take a cab or shuttle to Haora. Many Haora hotels near airport offer transfer services.

By rail:

Howrah Railway Station is one of India’s busiest and most connected rail hubs. Choose hotels in Haora near railway station for easy access and convenience.

By road:

Haora is well-linked by the Vidyasagar Setu and Howrah Bridge to Kolkata. National and state highways make road travel smooth via taxis, buses, and self-drives.

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Things to do in Haora

1. Walk the iconic Howrah Bridge
2. Explore Indian Botanical Gardens
3. Visit Belur Math, the headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission
4. Stroll through Millennium Park by the river
5. Enjoy a ferry ride across the Hooghly
6. Explore the bustling Howrah Station area
7. Visit Santragachi Jheel for seasonal birdwatching
8. Check out local temples and cultural centers
9. Photograph colonial architecture around Shibpur
10. Enjoy street food tours near Mali Panchghara

Shopping in Haora

1. Howrah AC Market – clothes, accessories, and homeware
2. Shibpur Market – local spices and daily items
3. Avani Riverside Mall – fashion and lifestyle brands
4. Belilious Road Bazaars – bargain finds
5. Chatterjeehat Market – household goods and garments
6. Santragachi Market – for fresh produce and groceries
7. Howrah Station Hawkers’ Zone – snacks and trinkets
8. Mandirtala local stalls
9. Riverfront handloom shops
10. Weekly haats around Bally and Liluah

Famous Restaurants in Haora

1. Avani Riverside Food Court – family dining
2. Dada Boudi’s Hotel – iconic biryani
3. The Biryani Inc. – spicy and flavorful treats
4. Haldiram’s (Howrah Station) – quick bites and sweets
5. The Grub Club, Shibpur
6. Machhli Baba Fries, Mandirtala
7. Zaika Junction – Santragachi
8. The Coastal Munch – seafood specialties
9. Kolkata Rolls & Kebabs
10. Wow! Momo (AC Market Branch)

Popular Hotels in Haora

Searching for the best hotels in Haora? Here are highly-rated options catering to all budgets:

1. Hotel Shivam Plaza – Near Howrah Station; one of the Haora famous hotels
2. Avani Riverside Retreat – Luxury property with river view
3. The Majestic Suites – Top choice among 5 star hotels in Haora
4. Hotel Arcon Residency – Ideal for business travelers
5. Hotel Plaza Inn – Budget-friendly, also listed under 2 star hotel Haora
6. OYO Flagship Liluah Stay – Among cheap hotels in Haora
7. Hotel Nest International – Located near Shibpur
8. Maa Durga Guest House – Simple, clean and affordable
9. FabHotel Howrah Bridge View – Great riverfront views
10. Hotel Landmark Inn – One of the best places to stay in Haora

Popular Resorts in Haora

1. Avani Riverside Resort – Full-service luxury resort
2. Fortune Park Panchwati (Howrah)
3. The Heritage River Retreat
4. Hotel Dolphin Resort (near Santragachi)
5. Hotel River View Point – Boutique resort
6. Ganges View Holiday Resort
7. Hotel Nest Resort and Banquets
8. Resort Balaka Inn
9. Disha Eco Stay Retreat
10. Weekend Riverside Camp (Near Bally)

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Haora Travel Tips

1. Book Early to Save on Fares: Haora doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata, located around 30 km away. To secure the best fares, it’s advisable to book cheap flights to Kolkata well in advance.
2. Use Local Trains and Ferries for Quick Access: Haora is well-connected to Kolkata via local trains and Hooghly River ferries, which offer scenic and time-saving alternatives to road traffic.
3. Visit Howrah Bridge at Sunrise or Night: One of India’s most iconic landmarks, the Howrah Bridge is best experienced early in the morning or beautifully lit up at night.
4. Stay Near Howrah Station for Transit Ease: If you’re planning to explore both Haora and Kolkata, booking accommodation near Howrah Junction gives you easy access to rail and road transport.
5. Use Metro & App-Based Taxis for Efficient Travel: While Haora itself isn’t fully metro-connected yet, Kolkata Metro stations are easily reachable. Combine with Uber or Ola for local transit.
6. Explore the Flower Market Early Morning: Visit the Mullik Ghat Flower Market, one of Asia’s largest, during early hours for a colorful and aromatic experience.
7. Try Bengali Street Food Around the Station: Savor delicacies like kachori-sabzi, telebhaja, and misti doi from stalls near Howrah Station and Shibpur area.
8. Plan a Riverfront Walk: Spend time along the Hooghly Riverfront Promenade, especially in the evening, to enjoy panoramic views, snacks, and local culture.
9. Carry Change for Local Transport: Trams, autos, and ferries may require exact change or cash payments, so keep small denominations handy.
10. Avoid Peak Traffic Hours on Howrah Bridge: The bridge gets heavily congested during 8–11 AM and 5–8 PM. Plan intercity travel during non-peak hours if possible.

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