During Durga Puja, Kolkata transforms into a living, breathing art gallery. From Monday, September 22nd to Thursday, October 2nd, 2025, the city explodes in a carnival of art, devotion, and culinary delights. The main festivities, from Panchami to Dashami, are an experience that rightly earns the title 'The Pride of Kolkata.' If you're planning to visit, you need a smart itinerary to navigate the joyous chaos. This 3-day guide is designed for first-timers to help you experience the very best of the pandals, food, and rituals without feeling overwhelmed.
Day 1: Heritage Pandals & Culinary Delights
Morning: Begin in Historic North Kolkata
Kickstart your journey in North Kolkata, home to the city’s oldest and most culturally significant pandals. Areas like Kumartuli, Sovabazar, and Bagbazar remain timeless in their celebrations. At Kumartuli, you may catch idol-makers giving finishing touches to their hand-sculpted creations. A visit to the Sovabazar Rajbari lets you step into a world where puja rituals are steeped in centuries of tradition.
Afternoon: Feast Like a True Bengali
After your cultural dive, treat yourself to authentic Bengali cuisine. Head to local favourites like 6 Ballygunge Place or Bhojohori Manna for dishes like Shorshe Ilish (hilsa in mustard sauce), Kosha Mangsho (slow-cooked mutton), and the classic Mishti Doi for dessert.
Evening: Aarti & Aesthetic Pandals
Conclude your first day with the soul-stirring evening aarti at iconic pandals such as Bagbazar Sarbojonin or Mohammad Ali Park. These venues not only wow with their elaborate themes and craftsmanship but also hold deep spiritual significance.
Day 2: Artful South Kolkata & Festive Markets
Morning: Explore South Kolkata’s Artistic Marvels
South Kolkata brings a modern twist to tradition. Pandals like Ekdalia Evergreen, Deshapriya Park, and Singhi Park dazzle with their creativity, tech-enabled installations, and storytelling themes. Each one is a testament to the artistic soul of the city.
Afternoon: Retail Therapy at Gariahat & New Market
No Durga Puja is complete without some shopping! Head to New Market for a mix of traditional saris, accessories, and handicrafts. For a trendy ethnic wardrobe, Gariahat is your go-to—offering everything from Kanchipuram silks to handwoven cottons at affordable prices.
Evening: Catch a Live Performance
Kolkata’s love for art extends to the stage. Visit venues like Rabindra Sadan or Nazrul Mancha for live performances—be it Rabindra Sangeet, folk theatre, or modern dance acts. Many community pandals also host cultural evenings, so keep an eye out.
Day 3: Celebrating the Spirit of Farewell
Morning: Soak in the Vibe at Maddox Square
Start your day at the ever-popular Maddox Square, where the vibe is young, energetic, and community-driven. It’s a place where generations gather for adda (chats), selfies, and morning puja rituals. Ideal for soaking in the joyous essence of the festival.
Afternoon: Dive into Kolkata’s Street Food Scene
Puja and food go hand in hand. Explore College Street or Vivekananda Park to sample Kolkata’s beloved street eats—puchkas, kathi rolls, telebhaja, and more. Street food during Durga Puja hits differently, with vendors upping their game for the festive crowds.
Evening: Sindoor Khela & The Grand Immersion
As the festival comes to a close, experience the emotional crescendo of Sindoor Khela, where married women playfully apply vermillion to each other and the goddess. Follow the immersion procession to Prinsep Ghat or Belur Math, where idols are carried to the river amidst chants of “Asche bochor abar hobe”—a hopeful promise of return next year.
Pro-Tips for Your Kolkata Durga Puja Tour
Embrace the Metro: It is your best friend. The metro runs overnight during the peak days and is the fastest way to get between North and South Kolkata. Buy a Smart Card to avoid queues.
Book Accommodation Early: Hotels are fully booked months in advance. Book your stay as soon as you decide to go.
Go Pandal Hopping at Night: The real magic begins after 7 PM when the lights come on and the crowds swell. Be prepared for long walks and even longer queues.
Dress Comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothing and, most importantly, comfortable walking shoes. You'll be on your feet for hours.
Stay Safe: Keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Stick to main roads at night and always have a portable charger for your phone.
Why You Shouldn't Miss Durga Puja 2025 in Kolkata
Durga Puja in Kolkata is more than just a religious celebration—it's a living, breathing tapestry of art, heritage, music, and unity. Whether you're drawn to the traditional rituals, the pandal artistry, or the sheer energy of the people, this 3-day tour offers a front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring festivals in the world.
Come for the goddess. Stay for the spirit. Leave with memories for a lifetime.
