Introduction:

Honey & Ginger Holidays believes that travel should be as personal and meaningful as the festivals we cherish. Our commitment to crafting unique, customized experiences stems from a deep understanding of what makes every journey special. Having spent over 10 years living in Delhi, our founder, being a Bengali, often felt a longing for curated, immersive travel experiences that resonate with diverse interests—especially during festive times like Durga Puja. This personal experience inspired him to create a travel company dedicated to offering meaningful journeys across various themes and cultures.

Durga Puja is more than just a religious festival for Bengalis—it’s an emotion. For Probashi Bengalis (Bengalis living outside Bengal), the vibrant celebrations in Delhi offer a home away from home. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the city, this carefully curated itinerary will help you immerse yourself in the vibrant Durga Puja celebrations of Delhi NCR. From pandal hopping to savouring traditional Bengali cuisine, every moment is designed to offer an unforgettable experience.

Morning: Begin with Rituals at Kashmere Gate

Start your day at one of Delhi’s oldest and most revered Durga Puja pandals, the Kashmere Gate Durga Puja Samiti. This Puja has been a cornerstone for the Bengali community in Delhi since 1910. The early morning rituals, featuring traditional prayers and the offer of Pushpanjali, along with the first glimpse of Devi Durga adorned beautifully, are a must-see.

Best time to visit: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM

Location: Bengali Senior Secondary School, Kashmere Gate

Pro Tip: The streets get crowded fast, so reach early to find a good spot for observing the rituals.

Late Morning: Pandal Hopping in CR Park

No Durga Puja celebration in Delhi is complete without a visit to Chittaranjan Park, often called the “Mini Kolkata” of Delhi. CR Park is famous for its vibrant pandals, each one offering something unique in terms of decoration and artistic expression.

Best time to visit: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Notable Pandals: Kali Mandir Society, B-Block Puja, and Mela Ground Puja.

Pro Tip: Download a map or list of the major pandals to plan your route efficiently. Many locals recommend starting with B-Block as it tends to be less crowded in the morning.

Afternoon: Bengali Bhog at CR Park

After a busy morning of pandal hopping, recharge with the traditional bhog, a divine offering made to the goddess and later distributed to devotees. Most pandals in CR Park serve bhog around noon, consisting of khichuri (rice and lentil porridge), labra (mixed vegetable curry), chutney, and payesh (rice pudding).

Best time for bhog: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

Pro Tip: The queues can be long, so aim to arrive early or grab your bhog.

Early Evening: Shopping and Snacks at CR Park Market 2

After a fulfilling lunch, Indulge in some last-minute Durga Puja shopping at CR Park’s Market 2 , and  Bengali street food . The market offers everything from ethnic saris and jewellery to kumro phool bhaja (pumpkin flower fritters), fish chops, and misti doi (sweetened yogurt).

Best time to visit: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Must-Try Delicacies: Fish rolls, ghugni (curried chickpeas), and Fish Fry (Bhetki fish)

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to buy traditional clothing or puja accessories, go earlier in the day to avoid the evening rush.

Evening: Cultural Experience at Minto Road or Matri Mandir, Safdarjung Enclave

Choose to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Durga Puja festivities at either Minto Road or Matri Mandir. At Minto Road, enjoy some of the city’s best cultural performances, featuring exciting dhunuchi dance competitions, musical acts, and poetic recitations that evoke the traditional charm of Kolkata. Alternatively, head to Matri Mandir to witness the beautifully decorated pandal and participate in the rituals. The ambiance here, filled with traditional music and the fragrance of flowers, creates a captivating experience that resonates deeply with every attendee.

Best time to visit: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Location: Minto Road or Matri Mandir, Safdarjung Enclave

Pro Tip: Whichever location you choose, arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good spot, as both venues tend to attract large crowds during the celebrations.

Location: Matri Mandir, Safdarjung Enclave

Pro Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to find a good spot, as this location tends to attract large crowds during the celebrations.

The Bengali Spirit Thrives in Delhi NCR

For Probashi Bengalis in Delhi, Durga Puja is a time to reconnect with their roots and celebrate the culture, traditions, and community spirit that define the festival. By following this itinerary, you can immerse yourself in the best that Delhi NCR has to offer during Durga Puja. Whether it’s the spiritual aura of the rituals or the mouth-watering food, this celebration in the capital is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

If you’re looking for a more detailed itinerary or want us to help plan your Durga Puja celebrations in Delhi, don’t hesitate to call or email us. Our team at Honey & Ginger Holidays is here to make your experience truly memorable!

Looking for a personalized tour experience across India? Honey & Ginger Holidays ensures every aspect of your journey is thoughtfully curated and tailored to your preferences.

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