Is Howrah in Kolkata?

Howrah is a separate city located on the west bank of the Hooghly River, adjacent to Kolkata.

How to reach Kolkata from Howrah station?

You can take a local train to BBD Bag, a ferry to Fairlie Place, or a taxi/bus across the bridge.

Are there buses between Howrah and Kolkata?

Yes, numerous state and private buses operate across the Howrah Bridge and Vidyasagar Setu.

How much is the taxi fare?

Taxi fares vary based on distance and traffic, typically ranging from 150 to 300 INR.

Yes, the ferry services are regulated and are a standard mode of public transport for thousands daily.

Howrah

Kolkata

Train Ship

Howrah to Kolkata

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Howrah to Kolkata spans roughly 5 km across the Hooghly River. You can cross via the iconic Howrah Bridge or Vidyasagar Setu by road. Local suburban trains connect Howrah Junction to Sealdah or BBD Bag. Ferry services from Howrah Ferry Ghat provide a scenic and rapid transit option. Traffic is heavy during peak hours, making rail or water transport preferable.

Total Distance: 5 km driving distance, 4 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Ferry service takes approximately 10 minutes, bypassing all road traffic.

Cheapest Way

Ferry service at 10 INR is the most economical and fastest way to cross the river.

Compare Howrah to Kolkata Routes

	Train Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	15 mins	10 mins
Avg Price	10-20 INR	10-15 INR
Operator	Eastern Railway	WBTIDCL Ferry
Route	Howrah Junction to BBD Bag or Sealdah.	Howrah Ferry Ghat to Fairlie Place or Armenian Ghat.
Tip	Use the local EMU trains for the fastest transit to the city center.	Avoid during heavy monsoon rains when river currents are strong.

Travel Tips

Peak Hours
Avoid road travel between 9 AM and 11 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM due to extreme congestion.
Ferry Timing
Check the ferry schedule at the ghat as services may reduce frequency during late night hours.
Train Tickets
Use the UTS mobile app to book local train tickets to avoid long queues at Howrah station.
Bridge Crossing
If taking a taxi, ensure the meter is on or agree on a fare beforehand to avoid overcharging.
Walking
Walking across the Howrah Bridge is allowed and offers the best vantage point for city skyline photos.

Safety Tips

Pickpockets
Keep your wallet and phone secure in crowded local trains and ferry terminals.
Footpath Safety
Be cautious of uneven surfaces and heavy crowds on the Howrah Bridge pedestrian walkway.
Late Night
Prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs when traveling late at night from Howrah station.
River Safety
Do not lean over the ferry railings while the boat is in motion.