Babughat Kolkata
Historic ghat on the Hooghly River, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant Ganga Aarti, and ferry services.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Witness the Ganga Aarti
Babughat Kolkata
Best Time
Witness the Ganga Aarti
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic ghat on the Hooghly River, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant Ganga Aarti, and ferry services.
"Babughat isn’t just another riverside stop — it’s the ultimate throwback Thursday in stone and soul."
🌅 Catch the Ganga Aarti
Don't miss the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti performed daily around 6-7 PM. It's a highlight for many visitors.
🚢 Ferry for Sunset Views
Take a ferry from Babughat to Howrah at sunset for stunning views of the city and bridges.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ganga Aarti Ceremony
Babughat
Witness a soul-stirring evening ritual with chants and lamps by the Hooghly River.
Hooghly River Ferry Ride
Babughat Jetty
Experience a scenic and affordable boat ride across the Hooghly River, especially at sunset.
Colonial Architecture
Babughat
Admire the historic Greek-Doric columns and faded colonial charm of this 1830s ghat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Navigating the Ghats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Ganga Aarti
Don't miss the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti performed daily around 6-7 PM. It's a highlight for many visitors. 
🚢 Ferry for Sunset Views
Take a ferry from Babughat to Howrah at sunset for stunning views of the city and bridges.
📸 Capture Colonial Charm
The ghat's historic architecture is perfect for photography, especially with the river backdrop.
🚶♂️ Be Prepared for Crowds
Babughat is a busy transit point; expect crowds, especially during peak hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Ganga Aarti
Don't miss the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti performed daily around 6-7 PM. It's a highlight for many visitors.
🚢 Ferry for Sunset Views
Take a ferry from Babughat to Howrah at sunset for stunning views of the city and bridges.
📸 Capture Colonial Charm
The ghat's historic architecture is perfect for photography, especially with the river backdrop.
🚶♂️ Be Prepared for Crowds
Babughat is a busy transit point; expect crowds, especially during peak hours.
🧼 Cleanliness Concerns
Some visitors note cleanliness issues; be prepared and manage expectations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Babughat is a historically significant and bustling ghat on the Hooghly River, appreciated for its colonial architecture and the vibrant Ganga Aarti ceremony. Visitors enjoy the scenic ferry rides and the lively atmosphere, though some note concerns about cleanliness and facilities. It remains a vital transit point and a cultural hub for Kolkata.
"The place is good and adjacent to Babughat bus stand, but it lacks facility of clean urinal and eating place options. However it is vital way to travel for lot of daily commuters. Hope the place improves and is upgraded."
Rakesh Kumar Mahunta
"On 15.07.25 i went there and literally it's short space, and unhygienic steps somewhere, they deserve better....😁 but Babughat, a historic ghat on the Hooghly River in Kolkata, was built in 1830 by Rani Rashmoni in memory of her late husband, Babu Raj Chandra Das, the zamindar of Janbazar. It is the second oldest ghat in Kolkata and is known for its colonial-era architecture, including a tall structure with Greek-style pillars. The ghat served as a busy spot for ferry services and is also a popular location for religious rituals.
I want to invite you all ,please visit here and experience extraordinary things ....2nd time i came here so I was feeling glad to visit it.....For more interesting and informative reviews about West Bengal even kolkata then you should follow me here or on Facebook ..... Thanks🙏🌹❤"
Projjwal Datta
"One of the oldest ghats in the suburbs of Kolkata. Nearby is Nimtala Shashan.
Evening aarti is performed here every evening at 6:30 PM.
Howrah ferry service operates from here.
Yes. The place is very dirty."
iam pattanayak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Babughat is well-connected by public transport. You can reach it via buses that stop at the adjacent Babughat bus stand. It's also accessible by ferry from Howrah.
Yes, there is a Babughat bus stand, making it a convenient point for bus travel within Kolkata.
Absolutely! Ferries operate from Howrah to Babughat, offering a scenic way to travel across the Hooghly River.
While not directly at Babughat, the nearest major railway station is Howrah Junction, from where you can take a ferry or a short taxi ride.
Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services can easily drop you off at or near Babughat. It's a well-known landmark in Kolkata.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Babughat itself is a public ghat and generally does not have an entry fee. However, specific activities like river cruises may have separate charges.
The Ganga Aarti ceremony typically takes place every evening from 6 PM to 7 PM.
Yes, you will need to purchase tickets for the ferry service from Babughat to Howrah or other destinations. Prices are generally affordable.
Yes, several operators offer river cruises from Babughat, including sunset and dinner cruises. It's advisable to check availability and book in advance.
Babughat is generally accessible throughout the day and night as a public space, but specific ferry services and activities have their own operating hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The colonial portico, the riverfront with views of the Howrah Bridge, and the bustling ferry activity offer great photographic opportunities. The pedestrian bridge is also popular.
Generally, it is safe to take photos. However, be mindful of your surroundings and your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Sunset offers beautiful lighting for photography, capturing the golden hues on the river and the city skyline. Early mornings can also be less crowded and offer a different light.
There are no widespread restrictions on general photography. However, always be respectful of religious ceremonies and private events.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near sensitive infrastructure. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While direct dining facilities at the ghat might be limited, you can find street food vendors selling local snacks like 'jhalmuri'. Nearby areas offer more extensive dining options.
Yes, some river cruises departing from Babughat offer dinner buffets with views of the Ganges.
Look out for vendors selling popular Kolkata street food like 'jhalmuri' (spicy puffed rice), 'ghugni' (chickpea curry), and tea.
Some restaurants and cafes along the Strand Road near Babughat might offer river views. River cruises also provide a dining experience on the water.
Street food is very affordable. Dinner cruises can range from ₹700 to ₹1350 or more, depending on the package.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a sunset river cruise for a more comfortable family experience, as some offer dinner and entertainment. While the ghat itself can be crowded and a bit chaotic, keeping a close eye on children is recommended. Pack some snacks and water, as facilities might be basic.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
While there's no entry fee for the ghat itself, be mindful of costs for any river cruises or specific activities. The main draw, the Ganga Aarti, is a free spiritual experience. Simply exploring the ghat and observing the daily life is a rich cultural experience that costs nothing.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for the golden hours around sunrise or sunset for the best light. The pedestrian bridge offers unique vantage points. Be prepared for crowds and capture the vibrant street life and the iconic Howrah Bridge in the background.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Babughat
The ghat's name itself is a nod to Kolkata's aristocratic past, reflecting its historical association with the 'babus' of yesteryear. Over time, it has evolved into a dynamic space, hosting everything from religious ceremonies and daily commutes to political rallies and bustling markets. This multi-faceted nature makes Babughat a microcosm of Kolkata's vibrant and often chaotic soul.
Babughat is particularly active during religious festivals, most notably as an immersion ghat during Durga Puja. The blend of historical architecture, continuous activity, and its role in both daily life and cultural events makes Babughat a unique and enduring part of Kolkata's identity.
Experiencing the Ganga Aarti and River Cruises
+2Beyond the Aarti, Babughat is a popular departure point for various river cruises on the Hooghly River. These cruises offer a different perspective of the city, with options ranging from short sunset sails to more elaborate dinner buffets. A sunset cruise can provide stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Howrah Bridge and Vidyasagar Setu, often accompanied by live music.
+2Taking a ferry from Babughat to Howrah is also a quintessential Kolkata experience. It's an affordable and scenic way to cross the river, especially during sunset, offering cinematic views and a chance to observe local life. The combination of spiritual rituals and recreational river activities makes Babughat a multifaceted destination for visitors.
Navigating Babughat: Practicalities and Tips
For those interested in photography, Babughat offers numerous opportunities. The colonial architecture, the bustling riverfront, and the iconic Howrah Bridge in the distance provide picturesque scenes. Sunset is often recommended for its beautiful lighting. However, it's always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
+1When visiting, consider weekdays for a potentially less crowded experience, especially if you're aiming to witness the Ganga Aarti. While the ghat itself is free to access, be prepared to pay for ferry rides or river cruises. Engaging with local vendors for snacks like 'jhalmuri' can add to the authentic experience.
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