The Five Days When Kolkata Goes Bonkers
Durga Puja in Kolkata isn't a festival; it's an emotion. People who usually moan about walking to the corner shop suddenly get superhuman stamina. Grandmothers who haven't left their houses in months start planning elaborate pandal-hopping routes. Even the city's grumpy auto drivers turn friendly.
Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata pop up everywhere - that empty lot where kids play cricket becomes this stunning masterpiece overnight. Each neighbourhood thinks it's built the next wonder of the world, and honestly? Sometimes they're not wrong.
Places to visit in Kolkata during Durga Puja are the legendary pandals in Kumartuli Park, Bagbazar, Shobhabazar Rajbari, College Square, and Ekdalia Evergreen. Finding the Best Durga Puja in Kolkata becomes everyone's mission. Office WhatsApp groups buzz with pandal recommendations. Social media feeds explode with photos.
The whole city runs on pure adrenaline and street food. Sleep becomes optional. Work becomes secondary. For five glorious days, art and celebration take over everything.
Want to join this beautiful chaos? Our Events and festival packages put visitors right in the heart of the action.
Durga Puja in Kolkata is magic in its entirety - you do not realise, you experience it. The Durga festival, which is a festival held every autumn, is the time the city turns into one big art gallery with blazing lights, spectacular pandals and idols that are too glamorous to create words. Durga Puja is not merely about rituals, and it is the hopping about late in the night of the pandals, the aroma of the street foods and the dhaak which sends shivers.
And now the giant flex - In 2021, Durga Puja in Kolkata was indeed listed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Yep, it is iconic, known to the world! Family members come out in their finest clothes, friends jump all over the pandals, and food lovers are lost in their infinite dishes of biryani, rolls and sweets. It is traditional giving way to creativity, worship becoming carnival and a festival that makes Kolkata really the happiest city in the world.
Handpicked Festival & Adventure Trip in Northeast India
- Mahalaya: 21 September 2025 - this is the invocation, when people begin remembrances and invite the goddess.
- Maha Panchami: 27 September 2025
- Maha Shashthi (Sasthi): 28 September 2025 - the day the idols are unveiled and pandal hopping begins in full force.
- Maha Saptami: 29 September 2025
- Maha Ashtami: 30 September 2025 - one of the most important days, with Pushpanjali, Sandhi Puja, etc.
- Mahanavami: 1 October 2025
- Vijaya Dashami / Dashami (Visarjan): 2 October 2025 - the final day of the five-day Durga Puja festival, when the goddess is bid farewell.
Knowing the dates of Durga Puja 2025 helps plan travel, stay, and choose pandals in Kolkata to visit (especially big ones which get very crowded).
Durga Puja Pandals in Kolkata 2025: Guide to the Best Pandals & What to Expect
North Kolkata: Tradition, History, and Heart
North Kolkata is where you feel the city’s soul. Narrow lanes, old houses, and centuries-old culture make the Durga festival in Kolkata special. These pandals focus more on tradition, artistry, and devotion.
Bagbazar is one of the oldest and most revered in the North Kolkata Durga Puja list, and the puja has more than a century old been hosted in Bagbazar. It is well-known for its classical rituals and simple but strong designs of pandals. It is one of the famous Durga Puja in Kolkata, as the emphasis is always made on devotion and not only on glamour.
- Location: Bagbazar Street, near Nivedita Uddan
- Nearest Metro Station: Shobhabazar Sutanuti / Shyambazar
- Highlight: One of Kolkata’s oldest and most revered community pujas, known for its traditional rituals and simple yet elegant decorations.
Located in the potters’ hub, Kumartuli Park is special because it stands at the birthplace of the idols themselves. Watching the goddess idols crafted with clay in Kumartuli is a divine experience. During Durga Puja 2025, this pandal will once again draw thousands who want to witness art, culture, and tradition blend.
- Location: Kumartuli, near Rabindra Sarani
- Nearest Metro Station: Shobhabazar Sutanuti
- Highlight: Situated in the potters' quarter, this pandal offers a glimpse into the artistry behind the idols, making it a must-visit for those interested in the craft of idol-making.
3. College Square Durga Puja
If you want a pandal beside a waterbody, College Square is the place to go. The reflection of lights and the idol in the lake creates a magical effect. It is one of the most photogenic Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata, and the evening is the best time to visit.
- Location: College Square, near Sealdah
- Nearest Metro Station: Sealdah
- Highlight: Famous for its grand lighting and the reflection of the idol on the adjacent lake, creating a mesmerising visual experience.
Known for its artistic themes, Belgachia attracts those who enjoy creativity with meaning. In Durga Puja 2025, this pandal will explore a unique theme that blends tradition and modern thought. It is also a popular spot for families during the celebration of Durga Puja.
Belgachia Sarbojanin Durga Utsav committee has chosen the theme “Existence” for 2025 - a philosophical/artistic treatment exploring reality, presence, etc.
- Location: Belgachia, near Maniktala
- Nearest Metro Station: Shyambazar
- Highlight: Known for its innovative themes and artistic presentations, it attracts visitors with its creative displays.
5. Nalin Sarkar Street Puja
A true gem of North Kolkata, Nalin Sarkar Street is smaller in size but grand in artistry. Every year, it surprises visitors with fresh ideas. It represents how even a compact pandal can rank as a top Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata.
- Location: Nalin Sarkar Street, near Shyambazar
- Nearest Metro Station: Shyambazar
- Highlight: A hidden gem in North Kolkata, this pandal is celebrated for its mix of traditional values and creative pandal designs.
6. Sikdar Bagan Sadharan Durgotsav
Another highlight of North Kolkata, Sikdar Bagan, is known for its innovative concepts. It is a great example of how the Durga festival continues to evolve, keeping both heritage and modern design alive.
- Location: Sikdar Bagan, near Shyambazar
- Nearest Metro Station: Shyambazar
- Highlight: Offers a blend of traditional rituals and modern themes, making it a favourite among both locals and tourists.
Close to the Ganga, this pandal mixes spirituality with art. It attracts large crowds every year and is a key stop for those exploring the Durga Puja pandal Kolkata circuit in the north.
- Location: Ahiritola, near Beniatola
- Nearest Metro Station: Mahatma Gandhi Road
- Highlight: Almost a century old, this pandal emphasises culture, rituals, and devotion, offering a carnival-like atmosphere with art events.
For those who love history, Sovabazar Rajbari is a heritage family puja. It is not just a pandal but a part of Bengal’s aristocratic past. It gives you a deep insight into Durga Puja and how it was celebrated in traditional homes centuries ago.
- Location: Sovabazar, near Shobhabazar
- Nearest Metro Station: Shobhabazar Sutanuti
- Highlight: A heritage family puja, offering a glimpse into Bengal's aristocratic past and traditional celebrations.
9. Sreebhumi Durga Puja Pandal
Sreebhumi has become one of the best Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata in recent years. Famous for its huge structures and Bollywood-like themes, it is expected to be one of the biggest attractions in Durga Puja 2025. From massive crowds to glittering lights, this is a pandal you cannot miss.
Sreebhumi Sporting Club has already announced its theme for Durga Puja 2025 - this year, they are recreating the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in New Jersey. This pandal is expected to be one of the biggest draws among all Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata.
- Location: Sreebhumi, near Lake Town
- Nearest Metro Station: Lake Town
- Highlight: Known for its grand structures and elaborate themes, this pandal often features life-sized replicas of famous landmarks.
Located in one of Kolkata’s busiest markets, Hatibagan is well-known for its creative themes. It beautifully balances the cultural spirit of North Kolkata with the festive joy of the Durga festival.
- Location: Hatibagan, near Shyambazar
- Nearest Metro Station: Shyambazar
- Highlight: Famous for its creative themes and artistic presentations, it attracts visitors with its innovative displays.
Suggested Read: Navratri Celebrations
South Kolkata: Innovation, Lights, and Grandeur
South Kolkata has a different vibe. Wider streets, open parks, and grand spaces make it perfect for larger pandals. This is where you’ll find the best Durga Puja in Kolkata for lights, creativity, and big crowds.
11. Ekdalia Evergreen Club
One of the most popular names in Durga Puja in South Kolkata, Ekdalia Evergreen is known for tall idols and eye-catching decorations. Every year, it recreates famous temples of India. For many, this is the best Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata.
- Location: Ekdalia, near Gariahat
- Nearest Metro Station: Rabindra Sarovar
- Highlight: Known for its tall idols and eye-catching decorations, recreating the famous temples of India.
With a long history, Singhi Park is another must-visit pandal in the South. It is famous for its grandeur and is counted among the famous puja pandals in Kolkata.
- Location: Singhi Park, near Kalighat
- Nearest Metro Station: Rabindra Sarovar
- Highlight: Famous for its grandeur and elegant lighting, offering a peaceful yet festive vibe.
13. Ballygunge Cultural Association
This pandal is family-friendly and known for its beautiful lighting. It offers a peaceful yet festive vibe, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the Durga Puja festival without too much crowding.
- Location: Ballygunge, near Gariahat
- Nearest Metro Station: Rabindra Sarovar
- Highlight: Elegant and well-managed, known for its beautiful lighting and festive atmosphere.
Home to record-breaking large idols, Deshapriya Park is a showstopper in the South. It always experiments with size and scale, attracting lakhs of visitors during the Durga Puja celebration.
- Location: Deshapriya Park, near Kalighat
- Nearest Metro Station: Rabindra Sarovar
- Highlight: Home to record-breaking large idols, known for its massive structures and grand decorations.
Creative, dramatic, and bold in its themes, Jodhpur Park is loved by youngsters. It is often regarded as a top Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata for its stunning designs.
- Location: Jodhpur Park, near Gariahat
- Nearest Metro Station: Tollygunge
- Highlight: Creative and bold themes, appealing to a younger audience with their dramatic presentations.
Famous for its cultural performances and international themes, Suruchi Sangha is one of the most talked-about pandals. It represents the modern face of the Navaratri Durga Puja in Kolkata.
- Location: Suruchi Sangha, near the New Alipore
- Nearest Metro Station: Kalighat
- Highlight: Combines cultural performances with beautifully decorated idols, offering a unique experience.
Shibmandir is more than just a pandal; it is a community space where families gather. It is accessible, lively, and represents the warmth of the Durga festival in Kolkata.
- Location: Shibmandir, near Kalighat
- Nearest Metro Station: Kalighat
- Highlight: A community-centric pandal known for its warm atmosphere and traditional rituals.
18. Naktala Udayan Sangha
This pandal is known for creative storytelling through art. In Durga Puja 2025, it will again be a hotspot for those who enjoy experimental designs during the celebration of Durga Puja.
- Location: Naktala, near Garia
- Nearest Metro Station: Gitanjali
- Highlight: Known for its creative storytelling through art, offering a unique thematic experience.
19. Bosepukur Sitala Mandir
This pandal always surprises visitors with quirky and thoughtful concepts. It proves that the Durga Puja in Kolkata is not just about tradition, but also about artistic expression.
- Location: Bosepukur, near Kasba
- Nearest Metro Station: Ruby Hospital
- Highlight: Surprises visitors with quirky and thoughtful concepts, showcasing artistic expression.
20. Badamtala Ashar Sangha
With social messages and creative flair, Badamtala is among the famous Durga Puja in Kolkata. It stands out because it uses art to spread awareness along with devotion.
- Location: Badamtala, near Kalighat
- Nearest Metro Station: Kalighat
- Highlight: Known for its social messages and creative flair, using art to spread awareness along with devotion.
What to Expect: Trends & Themes
From recent news sources, here are a few confirmed and emerging trends for Durga Puja in 2025 in Kolkata:
- The Red Road Sharad Samman portal has been opened by the West Bengal government so that puja committees can register to compete across categories such as best idol, best pandal theme, lighting, eco-friendly themes, etc.
- Agarpara Tarapukur Adi Sarbojanin will take up a theme inspired by Kumbh Mela in its 86th year.
- Another pandal, Lake Town Shripalli Welfare Association’s puja, is showcasing the evolution of city life and lifestyle - reflecting how Kolkata has changed in its day-to-day life.
These give a sense of how the celebration of Durga Puja in 2025 will combine tradition with commentary, art, and socially relevant themes. Eco-friendly design, storytelling, reflecting modernity, and philosophical ideas are showing up.
Getting Around During Puja:
- Metro Rail: Fastest way to major pandals, stations like Esplanade, Rabindra Sadan, Kalighat nearby
- AC Local Trains: Sealdah-Bongaon and Sealdah-Krishnanagar routes added for festive rush
- App Cabs: Convenient, but expect surge pricing
- Walking: Many pandals are close, wear comfortable shoes
What To Eat: Bhog And Street Food
Must-Try Street Food
- Kathi rolls
- Puchka (Kolkata's pani puri)
- Mutton chops and fish fry at old-school cabins
- Mishti doi and rosogolla from iconic sweet shops
Tip: Carry tissues and water, as street food can be messy.
Suggested Pandal Hopping Plan
If you only have 2-3 days to visit Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata, here’s a suggested route to cover many big ones, balancing the Best Durga Puja in Kolkata experiences from both North and South:
- Route A (Evening Tour): Start from College Square or Bagbazar in North - see Bagbazar, Belgachia, Kumartuli - then head south in the evening to Jodhpur Park, Ballygunge Cultural or Deshapriya Park. Good for seeing contrasts in lighting and atmosphere.
- Route B (Full Day): Morning: visit North (Tridhara Sammilani, College Square, Belgachia). Lunch break. Afternoon rest. Evening: Suruchi Sangha, Ekdalia Evergreen, Jodhpur Park, Deshapriya Park.
- Route C (Focused South Day): If staying in South Kolkata, spend the night touring there: Singhi Park, Shibmandir, Bosepukur, Naktala, Badamtala, Ballygunge Cultural.
- Route D (Traditional Heritage Tour): Stick to North: Bagbazar, Belgachia, Bagbazar’s neighbouring smaller ones, Kumartuli Park, College Square, Sreebhumi (if manageable). Good for photography, immersion in tradition, quieter crowd until evening.
Safety, Logistics & Things to Note
To enjoy Durga Puja in 2025 in Kolkata properly, here are some tips & confirmed information:
- Organisers are being asked to follow stricter crowd control, traffic routing, safety norms, lighting, eco-friendly materials, etc.
- The Red Road carnival and the Sharad Samman awards mean extra scrutiny and more ambitious designs.
- Public transport, trains, etc, see a heavy surge around these dates.
- Indian Railways has announced over 150 special trains for Durga Puja/Diwali/Chhath in 2025.
- If you're coming from outside Kolkata, book early.
Key Things to Note for Durga Puja 2025 Kolkata Visitors
Here are some of the important travel tips for Kolkata Durga Puja 2025
- The dates of Durga Puja 2025 (Mahalaya, Sasthi, Ashtami, etc) are essential to plan, especially for pandals that open late or have special events. Arrive early in the day or evening to avoid peak crush.
- Pandals, especially in North Kolkata, may have narrower paths; give extra time for walking, queuing, and photo stops. South pandals often have more space for pedestrians.
- Lanterns, lighting displays are best after dusk. So time parts of your route to be in places that light up beautifully - Sreebhumi, Jodhpur Park, Ballygunge Cultural, etc.
- Use public transport where possible, since parking is tight around many major pandals. Metro/buses can help you move from the North to the South circuits.
- Bring a camera or phone with good low-light capability; many “best Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata” prizes go to beautiful lighting, facades, and art installations.
- Respect rituals, timings; some pandals conduct pushpanjali, aartis, and rituals at specific hours. Being there at those moments gives more meaning to the celebration of Durga Puja.
So, if you are wondering what is the festival of Durga Puja, it is a time when faith meets creativity, and tradition meets innovation. From the old lanes of Bagbazar to the glowing lights of Deshapriya Park, the Durga festival in Kolkata is truly unforgettable. In Durga Puja 2025, plan your trip wisely, keep time for both North and South, and experience the joy that only this city can offer.
Kolkata’s Durga Puja pandals in 2025 are waiting to welcome you with devotion, art, and celebration. Come, be a part of this grand festival, and witness why the world knows it as the biggest Durga Puja celebration on earth.
So, mark the dates of Durga Puja 2025, plan your pandal hopping routes, and dive into the magic of the Durga festival in Kolkata. After all, there is nothing in the world quite like the celebration of Durga Puja in the City of Joy.
