Summary
Navratri in Kolkata is celebrated with unmatched grandeur, blending the traditional nine-day Navratri with the world-famous Durga Puja. The city becomes a hub of devotion, art, and culture where visitors enjoy pandal hopping in Kolkata, cultural shows, and vibrant street food. The festival is famous for its creative pandals, spiritual rituals, and festive shopping at places like Gariahat and New Market. Travelers can taste authentic Bengali sweets, enjoy meals ranging from Rs100–Rs1,000, and explore the cultural heartbeat of Bengal. For accommodation, visitors can stay at the Oberoi Grand Kolkata hotel, Taj Bengal Kolkata hotel, ITC Royal Bengal hotel, or The Park Kolkata hotel, all offering easy access to major pandals. From Navratri shopping in Kolkata to traditional rituals, the city offers a complete festive package. This is Why Navratri is Famous in Kolkata for its fusion of devotion, celebration, and cultural richness.
Reasons Why Navratri is Famous in Kolkata
Blend of Navratri and Durga Puja
In Kolkata, Navratri beautifully merges with Durga Puja. The last four days of Navratri are celebrated as Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami.
This combination makes the festival grander and more special compared to other cities.
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Magnificent Pandals
Kolkata is world-famous for its creative pandals (temporary temples).
Each year, pandals have unique themes such as historical monuments, modern art, village culture, or Bollywood inspiration.
Visiting pandals is free, but some VIP entry passes cost around Rs200–Rs500 to avoid long queues.
Art & Culture on Display
Navratri in Kolkata is not only about devotion but also about celebrating art.
Local artists, craftsmen, and designers showcase their work in pandals and exhibitions.
Folk dances, music performances, and theater shows happen across the city during these nine days.
Street Food Delights
During Navratri, Kolkata’s food scene becomes even more vibrant.
From Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh to vegetarian snacks like kachori sabzi, food stalls line every corner.
A decent meal on the streets costs Rs100–Rs300 per person, while fine dining may go up to Rs1,000 per person.
Shopping During Navratri
Markets like New Market, Gariahat, and Hatibagan are buzzing with festive shoppers.
Traditional sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, and festive outfits are sold at discounted rates.
Spiritual Connect
The spiritual energy of the city during Navratri is unmatched.
People fast, perform rituals, and participate in aarti with full devotion.
Goddess Durga’s idol immersions on Dashami mark the emotional conclusion of the festival.
Best Hotels in Kolkata During Navratri
If you are visiting Kolkata for Navratri, staying near the main pandal areas is highly recommended. Here are the top options:
The Oberoi Grand Kolkata Hotel
Price: Approx. Rs10,000–Rs15,000 per night
Highlight: Known as the “Grande Dame of Chowringhee”, this luxury hotel is just a short drive from iconic pandals. Perfect for travelers seeking royal comfort and convenient access to Navratri festivities.
Taj Bengal Kolkata Hotel
Price: Approx. Rs9,000–Rs13,000 per night
Highlight: A blend of heritage and modern luxury. Located near Alipore, it offers premium dining, elegant rooms, and easy access to major pandals and cultural events.
ITC Royal Bengal Kolkata Hotel
Price: Approx. Rs8,000–Rs12,000 per night
Highlight: One of the city’s grandest luxury hotels, ideal for Navratri visitors. Famous for its huge banquet halls, lavish interiors, and traditional Bengali hospitality.
The Park Kolkata Hotel
Price: Approx. Rs6,000–Rs9,000 per night
Highlight: Centrally located on Park Street, perfect for those who want to enjoy both pandal hopping and Kolkata’s nightlife during Navratri.
Holiday Inn Kolkata Hotel
Price: Approx. Rs4,000–Rs6,000 per night
Highlight: A budget-friendly yet stylish option with comfortable rooms, located close to the airport and city hotspots. Great for families and solo travelers.
Why Visit Kolkata During Navratri?
- To witness the grand fusion of Navratri and Durga Puja.
- To explore artistic pandals and cultural shows.
- To enjoy street food and festive shopping.
- To experience the true cultural heartbeat of Bengal.
FAQs on Navratri in Kolkata
Q1. Why is Navratri famous in Kolkata?
Navratri in Kolkata is famous because it combines the nine-day Navratri with the grand Durga Puja celebrations. The city is known for its artistic pandals, spiritual rituals, cultural shows, and festive shopping.
Q2. What is special about pandal hopping in Kolkata?
Pandal hopping is the highlight of Navratri and Durga Puja in Kolkata. Each pandal is uniquely designed with themes ranging from temples to world monuments. Entry is free, but VIP passes cost Rs200–Rs500 for quick access.
Q3. How much does it cost to enjoy Navratri in Kolkata?
Street food: Rs100–Rs300 per person
Fine dining: Rs700–Rs1,200 per person
Local transport: Rs100–Rs400 per trip
Hotels: Budget stays start at Rs4,000, while luxury hotels like the Oberoi Grand Kolkata or Taj Bengal Kolkata cost Rs9,000–Rs15,000 per night.
Q4. Which are the best hotels in Kolkata during Navratri?
Some of the best hotels are The Oberoi Grand Kolkata hotel, Taj Bengal Kolkata hotel, ITC Royal Bengal Kolkata hotel, The Park Kolkata hotel, and Holiday Inn Kolkata hotel.
Q5. Is Navratri shopping in Kolkata worth it?
Yes, markets like Gariahat, Hatibagan, and New Market are filled with festive discounts on sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, and ethnic outfits.
Q6. When is the best time to visit Kolkata for Navratri?
The best days are from Saptami to Dashami (the last four days of Navratri), when pandals, cultural events, and rituals are at their peak.
