Howrah Bridge

About The Howrah Bridge
The Howrah Bridge is the first cantilever suspension bridge of its type. Its a feat in modern engineering and technology. Constructed in 1874 over the river Hooghly, the bridge joins the twin cities of Howrah and Kolkata (Calcutta). In year 1871, the need for a bridge between Howrah and Calcutta was felt. After its completion in 1874, it became India's first floating structure. The bridge was partially built in India and partially in Britain. It is one of three bridges on the river Hooghly and is the most famous symbol of not only Calcutta but also West Bengal.

The Architecture
Calcutta-Howrah Bridge is a feat of nineteenth-century bridge engineering and technology. The 270 ft high and 1528 ft long bridge was completed in 1874, becoming the biggest floating structure of India. Famed British professional Engineer Sir Bradford Leslie was appointed the chief architect for the project. Due to some technical reasons, a portion of the bridge was made in England and shipped to Calcutta. The bridge got partially destroyed by the great cyclone of 20 March 1874. A steamer, collided with the bridge and damaged three pontoons, amounting to total destruction of 200 ft of the massive structure. The bridge eventually got completed and was opened for traffic on 17 October 1874. It was described as a structure of novelty and originality in its design. The bridge though has gone very old but is still holding good. A new bridge, alongside the old bridge, got constructed to reduce the traffic load on the older one.

Tourist Information
Visiting Hours: Is open throughout for the traffic.
Entry Fee: Nil.
When to visit: Best time to visit Kolkata is October to March.

Other Attractions near the Howrah Bridge
In Kolkata, the famous Victoria memorial (1921) and Indian Museum (1814) can be visited. These museums have some exclusive collections of ancient paintings, sculpture, stamps etc. India's oldest cricket ground, Eden Garden, is also in this city. Birla Planetarium, one of the largest
planetariums in the world is a good place to enjoy. The auditorium has a capacity of 500 and it conducts regular shows in Hindi, English and Bengali.

Getting There
Air: There is N.S.C. International airport at Dumdum in Kolkata. Regular flights to rest of India and world are available here.
Rail: Kolkata is very well connected to rest of India through two major railway station, Sealdah and Howrah.
Road: Kolkata is connected to the rest of India by excellent road network.

Accommodation
Kolkata has numerous options for stay. One can find luxurious star rated hotels, government owned hotels, guest houses, hostels, lodges and budget hotels to choose from.