The River Hooghly passes through the metropolis of Kolkata, India. For most of us, we know River Hooghly as the river passing through Kolkata and the suburbs.

The Ganges (popularly known as Ganga in India) is a major river in the plains of India. At Farakka (West Bengal), the Ganges form its first distributary, Bhagirathi-Hooghly. This distributary at the confluence of Bhagirathi River and Ajay River at Katwa (West Bengal) forms River Hooghly. Many rivers join River Hooghly as tributaries. The River Hooghly ends at the Bay of Bengal in Sagar Island (West Bengal). River Hooghly is a distributary of the Ganges from Katwa to Sagar Island in West Bengal.

The River was a major transportation route in Bengal. During colonial era, the river became a flourishing trading route. Heritage towns, like Chandannagar and Bandel, are located on the banks of Hooghly. Ordnance factories were established on the bank of River Hooghly during the colonial era.

Today many commuters cross the river using the waterways transportation services commonly called as Ferry. The goods are transported through the river route even today using cargo vessels. The river supports agriculture and industrial activities. The river banks offer a serene place to unwind oneself. Many spiritual centers and prayer places are located on the banks.

The river played an important role in the overall economy and culture of the area it passed through. A rich history is linked to the River Hooghly. River Hooghly has been an integral part of history, culture, and economy.