With festive season dripping in, the flair in the air is extravagant and captivating. While not many would agree to the fact that travelling while festivities is a good idea but trust us, experiencing the real traditional vibe and soaking in the culture is only possible when you explore. The vibrant colours, the grandeur, the rituals and the cheerfulness will leave you hypnotic and elated. So, do not wait anymore, roll up your sleeve, grab your camera and head toward any of the following destinations to experience Durga Puja and Navratri at its best.
Kolkata, West Bengal
Keeping the obvious one at the top, the ‘city of joy’ is definitely the best place to visit if you want to experience the real magic of Durga Puja. The people of Kolkata celebrate this auspicious festival with themed pandals, unique idols and appetizing delicacies. You really shouldn’t miss Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata.
Estimated footfall in Kolkata this Durga Puja: 200,000-300,000 per day per Pandal.
Delhi
Soak up the pujo flavours this year by visiting the mini Kolkata, Chittaranjan Park in Delhi. The place offers some delicious Bengali cuisine that you can’t afford to miss. Other than this, the capital of India is also known for its Ramlila performances during Dusshera. So, plan a trip to Delhi this holiday season to experience this mesmerizing affair.
Estimated footfall in New Delhi this Durga Puja: 500,000-1 million per day per Pandal.
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
With every street and corner coming alive with colours, traditions and festivities, the city of Ahmedabad lights up with joy during Durga Puja and Navratri. People of all ages participate in the popular performances of dandiya and garba raas making these events extremely exuberant. Places like Navakhi ground, Laxmi Vilas Palace and more have singers and artists in cultural outfits who perform in major dandiya events. While you are here, do not forget to slurp on some of the authentic Gujarati cuisine!
Mumbai
Celebrate Durga Puja this year in the ‘city of dreams’! More than 100 community Durga Puja or Sarbojonin is held across the city making it a gala affair. Places like Santa Cruz Vashi, RK Mission at Khar and Andheri are some of the most prominent places in Mumbai that you should visit this time of the year.
Estimated footfall in Mumbai this Durga Puja: 100,000 per day per Pandal.
Guwahati, Assam
Welcoming Devi Durga with great vibrancy, the entire state of Assam lights up in joy and festivity. Guwahati is known as the Dussehra capital and it hosts more than 500 pandals that houses beautiful huge idols with intricate decorations. You might be not be aware but the Nayantara locality of Guwahati has received global media attention for its celebrations. Including this place on your travel list this festive season would allow you to experience something significant and exclusive.
‘From Sashthi to Dashami it’s time to enjoy, may Maa bless you with lots of happiness and joy.’ Now, that are you aware about the best places to visit during Durga Puja and Navratri , choose your destination, pack your bags, and go travel. Happy Durga Puja, Happy Dussehra and Happy Navratri to all!
