The City of Joy becomes a true representation of its name, pulsing with colour and life, when Durga Puja arrives. A city that’s already known for its vibrant street life, literary heritage, and artistic spirit truly comes alive during the five days of celebration!
The kaleidoscope of devotion and joy draws travellers to the city, where they want to explore the streets, adorned with intricate decorations. They want to explore and experience the excitement in neighbourhoods, going along with the festive flow!
Every corner of the city offers a unique glimpse with awe-inspiring pandals and mouth-watering food. Whether you have been to Kolkata before or you’re a first-time visitor, if you plan to visit, here’s a guide for you! So, book your luxury hotel in Kolkata, grab your bags, and get ready to revel in the spirit of Durga Puja.
Exploring the Best Kolkata Neighbourhoods for Durga Puja
Certain neighbourhoods in the city become celebration epicentres as the festival approaches. Every area has its charm and unique experiences, even the boutique hotels in Kolkata get decked up for the festivities! Here’s a guide to the best Kolkata neighbourhoods to explore during Durga Puja:
Kumartuli
Your Durga Puja journey must begin with the artisan hub, Kumartuli. This is an area renowned for its artists who craft the Durga idols. Here, you get to witness the detailed idol-making process, where clay transforms into divine figures. The streets smell like fresh clay, and the sounds of tools chiseling away, providing an extraordinary insight into the craftsmanship that makes the festival special. Also, if you want, you can chat with the local artists and learn more about their traditions.
Bagbazar
You can’t miss Bagbazar because it’s one of the most iconic and oldest celebrations in the city!
The Bagbazar Sarbojonin Durgotsav is well-known for its traditional rituals and elaborate decorations. Stroll through the area and you can find yourself captivated by the bright atmosphere and vibrant community. It will surely envelop you, pulling you into participating and enjoying the festive spirit.
Ballygunge
If you book one of the best hotels in Park Street, Kolkata, getting to this neighbourhood is easy. Once you’ve soaked in the old-world charm of Bagbazar, head to Ballygunge for a modern adventure.
Ballygunge is an upscale neighbourhood that boasts some of the most innovative and artistic pandals, usually featuring contemporary technology and themes. The puja organised by the Ballygunge Cultural Association showcases creativity that blends modernity with traditions. While you explore the more new-age pandals, don’t forget to explore the food because this area is full of fantastic cafes and restaurants!
Salt Lake
Book a cab from your luxury hotel in Kolkata and head to Salt Lake, a well-planned neighbourhood that you can’t overlook. The community here organises events that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The pandals are also famous for their accessibility, spaciousness, and extremely innovative themes. Additionally, we must mention the food scene as well. The local eateries are serving up amazing Bengali, continental, Asian cuisines and more!
Savour the Festive Food Culture
While the lunch and breakfast buffet at your hotel’s banquet hall in Kolkata is unmatched, you have to step out and explore some more! After all, what’s a festival if you don’t indulge in some delicious food?
Must-Try Iconic Delights
The food culture in Kolkata truly shines during this time. You have local eateries and street vendors dishing out scrumptious treats that are irresistible. As you meander through the decked-up streets, don’t forget to sample kathi rolls, mishti doi, and phuchka.
Little Bites of Festive Luxury
If you’re anywhere near Park Street, you have to dip into the Mahabhoj arranged by The Park Hotels Kolkata in their sumptuous Rosewood Banquet. Food, tradition, and music are celebrated in this three-day festive extravaganza. You get to enjoy divine rituals, a live band, and an evening aarti all under one roof!
However, if you want to skip the rituals, you can simply chill by the Aqua with a drink in hand. It’s alright, sometimes, we do need breaks from all the festivities!
Make a Few Legendary Stops
On the topic of sweets, Kolkata is a haven for anyone with a serious sweet tooth. There’s KC Das, Girish Ch. Dey & Nakur Ch. Nandy, Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick, and more!
The City of Joy is ready to embrace you during Durga Puja! So, prepare your itinerary and start exploring.
