A remarkable architectural marvel, a treasured landmark, the Howrah Bridge is the crossing point over the Hooghly River linking the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah in the state of West Bengal. Rabindra Setu (as it is officially known) is a cantilever bridge and its daily flow of traffic both vehicular and pedestrians, and surprisingly with no pier in the middle of the river is colossal. Constructed in the year 1943 this engineering masterpiece has long been representing the grandeur, history and life of Kolkata.Major Attractions: Hooghly River views, engineering marvel, Kolkata skyline, vibrant local atmosphereTop Activities: Photography, riverside walk, ferry ride, street food tasting, sightseeingDuration: 1–2 HoursBest Time to Visit: October to MarchFrom being the city’s most cherished tourist attraction during sunrises and sunsets, to its illumination that twinkles in the night sky, the Howrah Bridge is always a photographer's delight. Not just a river crossing, the Howrah Bridge is actually the heartbeat of the city of Kolkata. Tourists can capture unique angles and views from a ferry crossing, and no visit is complete without taking a walk across the Howrah Bridge and enjoying the unique vibrancy of the flower market that flourishes here, the Mullick Ghat Flower Market, a feast for senses. While the sunsets here paint the bridge in a plethora of colors, the lights that dot the bridge in the evenings and gleam from miles add a magical glow. Being between the two cities, accessing the bridge from both Kolkata and Howrah is straightforward and a good starting point to experience popular landmarks of Kolkata like Victoria Memorial, Prinsep Ghat and Park Street.
