Kolkata, West Bengal
Howrah Junction, also known as Howrah Station, is the oldest and largest railway complex in India, serving the twin cities of Howrah and Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Established in 1854, it is one of the busiest railway stations globally, with approximately 600 passenger trains passing through daily and serving over a million passengers each day. The station comprises 23 platforms divided into two terminals, with Terminal 1 including platforms 1 to 15 serving local and long-distance trains of the Eastern Railway, and Terminal 2 encompassing platforms 16 to 23 catering to long-distance trains of the South Eastern Railway. Howrah Junction is a pivotal hub connecting various parts of India, including major routes to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Guwahati, making it a significant landmark and transportation hub in the region.
Howrah Junction was established in 1854, making it one of the oldest railway stations in India and playing a crucial role in India's railway history. The station was built during the British colonial period and has been a vital transportation link connecting Kolkata and Howrah with the rest of India. Over the decades, Howrah Junction has evolved from a small railway station to one of the largest and busiest railway complexes in the country. The station has witnessed significant historical events and has been a witness to India's transformation from a colonial territory to an independent nation. The station's architecture and infrastructure have been expanded and modernized over the years to accommodate the growing passenger traffic and changing needs of rail transportation. Today, Howrah Junction continues to serve as a crucial transportation hub, connecting millions of passengers to various destinations across India and standing as a testament to India's railway heritage and development.
23 Platforms: The station comprises 23 platforms divided into two terminals for efficient train operations
Terminal 1: Platforms 1 to 15 serving local and long-distance trains of the Eastern Railway
Terminal 2: Platforms 16 to 23 catering to long-distance trains of the South Eastern Railway
Waiting Areas: Large covered waiting areas for passengers awaiting connecting trains
Wi-Fi Facilities: Free Wi-Fi available for passengers, enhancing the travel experience
Left Luggage: Cloakroom facility available for storing luggage, with charges applicable per bag
Food and Drink: Numerous eateries and hawkers offering a variety of food options, including authentic Bengali cuisine and international fast-food chains
Retail Shops: Various retail shops and vendors offering travel essentials and local products
Boarding trains to various destinations across India
Experiencing one of the busiest railway stations in the world
Exploring the historic architecture and infrastructure
Enjoying authentic Bengali cuisine and local food from station vendors
Using the station as a transit point for connecting trains
Accessing free Wi-Fi and other passenger amenities
Observing the bustling activity and daily operations of a major railway hub
Connecting to various parts of India via major railway routes
Location: Howrah, West Bengal, India (serving Howrah and Kolkata)
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 15 km
Major Railway Connections: Pivotal hub connecting major routes to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Guwahati, and various other destinations across India
Metro Station: Howrah Metro Station – accessible via connecting transport
Howrah Bridge: Located near Howrah Bridge, providing easy access to Kolkata across the Hooghly River
Ferry Services: Ferry services available across the Hooghly River connecting to Kolkata
Howrah Junction is strategically located in Howrah, providing excellent connectivity to Kolkata across the Hooghly River and serving as a major gateway to eastern and northeastern India.
Howrah Junction is well connected by road, metro, ferry, and rail. The station is located in Howrah, on the western bank of the Hooghly River, which provides excellent connectivity to Kolkata on the eastern bank. The station is easily accessible via Howrah Bridge, one of the busiest bridges in the world, connecting Howrah and Kolkata. Ferry services operate across the Hooghly River, providing an alternative mode of transportation to Kolkata. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area from various parts of Howrah and Kolkata. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for passengers. The Howrah Metro Station provides additional connectivity via the Kolkata Metro network. The station is easily accessible from the international airport, making it convenient for both local passengers and tourists. Howrah Junction's strategic location and excellent connectivity make it easily accessible and a vital transportation hub, serving over a million passengers daily and connecting various parts of India through its extensive railway network.