Gariahat from Howrah Station: Your Complete Transportation Guide
Navigating Kolkata’s busy streets can be exciting, but it can also be a bit tricky for newcomers. Don’t worry! This guide will walk you through all your options for getting to Gariahat, a lively shopping and cultural area, from Howrah Station, the city’s main railway hub. Whether you prefer the speed of a taxi, the efficiency of public buses, or the charm of the iconic Kolkata trams, we’ve got you covered.
The Taxi Tango: For a Quick and Convenient Ride
For the fastest and most convenient option, taxis are readily available right outside Howrah Station. You can find both pre-paid and metered taxis. Pre-paid taxis offer a fixed fare based on your destination, so you won’t need to worry about being overcharged. Metered taxis calculate the fare based on the distance traveled. Make sure to agree on a fair price with metered taxi drivers before starting your trip.
The taxi ride from Howrah Station to Gariahat usually takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. You’ll cross the iconic Howrah Bridge, offering stunning views of the Hooghly River, and pass through the heart of Kolkata, seeing its vibrant street life and beautiful buildings.
The Bus Buzz: An Economical and Efficient Choice
Kolkata has a wide network of public buses run by the West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) and private companies. These buses are a cost-effective and efficient way to get to Gariahat from Howrah Station. Several bus routes connect the two places, and you can find bus stops conveniently located near the station.
Recommended Bus Routes:
- Line 107: This direct bus route from Dharamtala (near Howrah Station) to Gariahat is a popular choice among locals and tourists. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Line 5: Another direct bus route from Chowringhee Road (a short walk from Howrah Station) to Gariahat is equally convenient, taking around 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Taking the Bus:
- Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about the right bus, don’t hesitate to ask fellow passengers or bus conductors for guidance. They are usually friendly and willing to help.
- Carry Change: Keep small denominations of cash handy for paying the bus fare, as most buses don’t accept card payments.
- Avoid Rush Hour: If possible, avoid traveling during peak hours (8 am-11 am and 5 pm-8 pm) when buses tend to be crowded.
The Tram Trot: A Nostalgic Journey
Kolkata is one of the few cities in the world where trams still run. These iconic trams offer a nostalgic and scenic way to travel across the city. While there isn’t a direct tram route from Howrah Station to Gariahat, you can take a tram from the station to Esplanade and then change to another tram or bus to reach your destination.
Recommended Tram Route:
- Line 25: Take this tram from Howrah Station to Esplanade. From Esplanade, you can take a bus or another tram line to Gariahat.
Tips for Taking the Tram:
- Buy a Ticket: Purchase a ticket from the tram conductor before boarding.
- Embrace the Slow Pace: Trams are slower than buses and taxis, but they offer a unique and charming way to experience Kolkata.
The Metro Marvel: A Modern and Efficient Option Kolkata’s Metro Rail network is another convenient way to travel between Howrah Station and Gariahat. While there isn’t a direct metro line connecting the two places, you can take the metro from Howrah Station to Esplanade and then switch to a bus or taxi to reach Gariahat.
Recommended Metro Route:
- Howrah Station to Esplanade: Take the East-West Metro Line from Howrah Station to Esplanade.
Tips for Taking the Metro:
- Buy a Token/Smart Card: Purchase a token or smart card from the metro station before boarding.
- Follow the Signs: The metro stations are well-signposted, making it easy to navigate.
