Bengalis are famed for celebrating all festivals with exalted zeal, but the enthusiasm and the grandeur that Durga Puja brings about is hard to rival. Even the Brazilian carnivals can seem like a small local function in comparison to the extravagance of Durga Puja.
Dos
Here are a few tips on how to plan the best puja experience-
- From Detroit to Dispur, where ever there are Bengalis there is bound to be a well organised Durga Puja. If you wish to enjoy the spirit of the celebrations then the best place to get your festive fix is in Kolkata. Every locality in Kolkata is sure to have a makeshift temple dedicated to the Goddess Durga and her children. So while booking Durga puja holiday packages it is best to book Durga puja tour packages that take you around Kolkata.
- Every year the dates of the puja keep changing. This is because the puja dates and timings are not set according to the western calendars. So, if you want to book Durga puja holiday packages beforehand, ensure that you have the right dates.
- There are many locations that are worth a visit within Kolkata. The traffic is sure to increase commute time. Plan your visits accordingly. Divide the areas and check out the famous pujas one area at a time.
- Various Durga puja tour packages entail different localities. Although the modern pujas are the ones that attract most crowds it is best to check out the old pujas. Try to find the packages that can take you to the oldest family pujas.
- Book everything in advance. If you think that landing in the city you will find transport and boarding, then be prepared to have the worst experience ever. Book a car, a room and your tickets in and out of the city well in advance.
Don'ts
While making plans for Durga Puja make sure to avoid a few things-
- Most of the larger pujas will have a large number of food stalls around it. Try to avoid eating from those stalls. Even the hardiest of stomachs falter in the face of the fiery phuchkas. If your stomach does give up post puja feast, your entire experience can be ruined.
- Avoid public transport. The best thing to do is book vehicles to take you around. These bookings must be done months in advance. The fares are increased significantly and so is the crowd. Getting a taxi can be the hardest hunt. Getting onto a bus can give you a glimpse of hell.
- Durga puja draws in tourists from all over the world. The city ends up teeming with people trying to dupe tourists. If you are unsure of managing on your own, book a guide well in advance. Do not trust any random person who seems to know a lot about what is going on.
- Although the night time lights up with all the puja decorations, avoid travelling at night. It is not a question of safety. The crowds multiply at night and the rush can be crushing.
If you plan the trip well, Kolkata has much to offer during Durga Puja.
Martin Wynn
