Haora, also spelt Howrah, is a city located in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is situated on the western bank of the Hooghly River, directly opposite Kolkata (Calcutta), which is the capital of West Bengal. Howrah is an integral part of the greater Kolkata metropolitan area and is known for its connectivity to Kolkata through various bridges, including the iconic Howrah Bridge (officially named Rabindra Setu). The city of Howrah is an important industrial and transportation hub in the region, and it plays a significant role in the economic life of West Bengal and eastern India.
What kind of climate does Haora have?
Haora, or Howrah, experiences a tropical wet-and-dry climate, characterized by distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, post-monsoon, and winter. Here’s an overview of the climate in Haora:
- Summer (March to June): Summers in Haora are hot and humid. Daytime temperatures can soar to 35 to 40 degrees Celsius (95 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity levels are relatively high, making the weather feel even hotter.
- Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Haora. The southwest monsoon winds bring abundant rainfall, which can lead to occasional flooding in low-lying areas. The city becomes lush and green during this period.
- Post-Monsoon (October to November): After the monsoon season, the weather becomes more pleasant. Humidity levels decrease, and temperatures start to drop, making it a more comfortable time to visit.
- Winter (December to February): Winters in Haora are relatively dry and cool. While daytime temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 12 to 25 degrees Celsius (54 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), nights can be chilly, with temperatures dropping further.
Overall, the best time to visit Haora is during the post-monsoon and winter months, from October to February, when the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities and exploration. The monsoon season can be challenging due to heavy rains and humidity, while the summer months can be very hot and uncomfortable.
Who were the early inhabitants of Haora?
The region around Haora (Howrah), like much of Bengal, has a rich history of human habitation dating back to ancient times. The early inhabitants of the region were diverse and included various indigenous communities, ethnic groups, and cultures.
Some of the prominent early inhabitants of the Haora region included:
- Bengali People: The region has historically been home to the Bengali people, who have their own distinct language, culture, and traditions. The city of Haora is part of the greater Kolkata metropolitan area and is culturally intertwined with the Bengali identity.
- Indigenous Communities: West Bengal, including the Haora region, is home to several indigenous tribal communities, such as the Santhal, Munda, and Oraon tribes. These communities have deep-rooted traditions, languages, and ways of life.
- Early Settlers and Migrants: Over the centuries, the region attracted traders, settlers, and migrants from various parts of India and beyond. This diversity has contributed to the cultural tapestry of Haora and the broader Bengal region.
The region’s history has also been influenced by various dynasties, empires, and colonial powers, including the Mauryas, Guptas, Mughals, and the British East India Company, which had a significant impact on the development of the area.
Today, Haora is a bustling and cosmopolitan city within the state of West Bengal, and its population is a mix of various cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The city’s history and heritage reflect this diversity and the contributions of its early inhabitants.
What are the famous schools and colleges of Haora?
 Haora, also known as Howrah, is a part of the greater Kolkata metropolitan area and has several renowned educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities. Here are some of the famous schools and colleges in Haora:
- Howrah Zilla School: Established in 1845, Howrah Zilla School is one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in the region. It offers quality education from primary to higher secondary levels.
- Howrah Vivekananda Institution: This institution includes both Vivekananda Mission School and Vivekananda Mission Asram Vidyalaya, known for their commitment to academic excellence and value-based education.
- St. Thomas’ School: St. Thomas’ School is a well-known institution in Howrah, offering education from nursery to higher secondary levels.
- Don Bosco School, Liluah: Part of the Don Bosco network of schools, it is known for its holistic education and emphasis on extracurricular activities.
- Kendriya Vidyalaya, Howrah: A branch of the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), it provides quality education to the children of central government employees.
- Colleges and Universities:
- Surendranath College: A renowned college affiliated with the University of Calcutta, offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various fields.
- Shibpur Dinobundhoo Institution (College): Known for its academic excellence, it offers undergraduate programs in arts, science, and commerce.
- Ramakrishna Mission Residential College: Affiliated with the University of Calcutta, this college provides education in various streams.
- Bengal Engineering and Science University (BESU): Now Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST): An esteemed institution known for engineering and technology education.
- Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata:Â Giridih Campus: While not in Howrah itself, this campus of ISI offers postgraduate programs in statistics and related fields and is nearby in Giridih, Jharkhand.
- Gokhale Memorial Girls’ College: A well-known college for women, offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts and science.
These are some of the famous educational institutions in Howrah. The city has a rich educational heritage and continues to provide quality education in various fields of study.
Top places to visit in Haora?
Haora (Howrah) is known for its proximity to Kolkata and its historical and cultural attractions. While many of the popular tourist destinations are located in Kolkata itself, Haora offers some interesting places to visit as well. Here are some of the top places to visit in Haora and its vicinity:
- Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu): This iconic cantilever bridge spans the Hooghly River and connects Haora with Kolkata. It’s a symbol of the city and a popular landmark.
- Belur Math: Located in nearby Belur, this serene place is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. The architecture of the main temple is a blend of various religious styles and is a beautiful place to explore.
- Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, this famous temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. It’s a place of worship and a significant religious site.
- Howrah Railway Museum: Located near Howrah Railway Station, this museum showcases the history and development of the Indian Railways, with a focus on the Eastern Railways.
- Botanical Gardens, Shibpur: These gardens house the Great Banyan Tree, one of the largest trees in the world. The gardens are a peaceful place for a leisurely stroll.
- Indian Botanical Gardens (Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden): Located in nearby Shibpur, these gardens are known for their diverse plant collections, including the famous Banyan tree and the Royal Botanic Garden.
- Vidyasagar Setu (Second Hooghly Bridge): This cable-stayed bridge connects Haora with Kolkata and offers panoramic views of the river and the city.
- Howrah AC Market: A bustling market known for shopping, dining, and exploring local culture.
- Shri Mayapur Chandradoya Mandir: Located in Mayapur, this temple is a significant pilgrimage site for followers of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).
- Millennium Park: Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, this park offers a riverside promenade, gardens, and a replica of the Howrah Bridge.
While Haora is more often associated with its transportation and connectivity to Kolkata, these attractions provide visitors with opportunities to explore some of the cultural and historical aspects of the city and its surroundings. Many more attractions are easily accessible in Kolkata itself, making Haora an ideal base for exploring the broader metropolitan area.
FAQs on Howrah, Calcutta
How many platforms are there in Howrah Railway Station?
Howrah Railway Station, one of the busiest and oldest railway stations in India, boasts a total of 23 platforms. This massive station serves as a major gateway for trains entering and leaving Kolkata, and it's renowned for handling a high volume of passenger traffic every day.
Where is Howrah Bridge located?
Howrah Bridge, also known as Rabindra Setu, is a cantilever bridge that spans over the Hooghly River in West Bengal, India. This iconic landmark connects the city of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) on the eastern bank with the city of Howrah on the western bank. It's a celebrated architectural marvel and a vital part of the daily commute for thousands of people in the region
Where is Howrah located?
Howrah is a city located in the Indian state of West Bengal. It's situated on the western bank of the Hooghly River and is directly adjacent to Kolkata, the state capital. Howrah is part of the Kolkata Metropolitan Area and is known for its industrial base and as the location of the Howrah Railway Station, one of the major railway hubs in India