Goddess Rising: The Durga Puja Experience by Ekno Travels

Step into the heart of India’s most spectacular festival and discover a city transformed by colour, devotion, and creativity. During these magical days, Kolkata becomes a living celebration where art, music, rituals, and community come together in an unforgettable cultural experience. Wander through beautifully illuminated streets, witness breathtaking festival installations, and feel the energy of millions celebrating the divine feminine with passion and joy.

This immersive journey invites you to experience authentic traditions alongside warm local hospitality, riverfront sunsets, historic neighbourhoods, and extraordinary cuisine. From sacred rituals and artistic craftsmanship to vibrant markets and elegant colonial heritage, every moment reveals another layer of this captivating city—leaving you with memories of beauty, spirituality, and celebration that will stay with you long after the journey ends.

  • TOUR DATESSeptember-October
  • Tour CostCost on Application
  • TOUR HIGHLIGHT* Pandal Walks with Spirit. Explore illuminated streets and creative pandals. Every ritual and decoration tells a story. * Watch locals life closely. Wake to temple bells, join Pushpanjali, Sandhi Puja, and Sindoor Khela alongside devotees. * Heartfelt Meals. Savour authentic Bengali dishes at curated restaurants and local homes. * Real Connections. Walk through neighborhoods, meet artisans, and share stories with locals — beyond tourist crowds. * Raw Experiences. Witness rituals and Visarjan naturally, without staged setups. * Travel That Gives Back. Your journey supports artisans, communities, and festival preservation. * Festival Storytelling. Engage with local experts sharing legends, and historical context of Durga Puja.
  • Package Included
    • Met on arrival at the airport by an Ekno representative.
    • Services of an English-speaking guide for the duration of the tour
    • 07 nights’ twin share accommodation with breakfast, lunch & dinner
    • All transfers and sightseeing by private AC vehicle as per the itinerary
    • Entrance fees as per the itinerary
    • Sunset cruise experience on the Hooghly River.
  • Package Excludes
    • International airfares
    • Indian tourist visa
    • Personal expenditure such as drinks (including bottled water), laundry service and souvenirs
    • Tipping
    • Entrance fees for all sights and monuments in Delhi, Agra & Jaipur
    • Lunch & Dinners
    • Camera and video entry charges at local sights and monuments
    • Compulsory insurance of any kind

Tour Plan

01

Arrival in Kolkata (Maha Shashthi)

Arrive in Kolkata where you’re warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to rest before joining a gentle orientation walk through historic streets, sampling local snacks and soaking in the vibe of this dynamic city.
Overnight: Kolkata.

02

Kumartuli & Sunset River Cruise (Maha Saptami)

After breakfast, explore Kumartuli, the artisan hub where iconic clay idols are crafted. In the afternoon, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Hooghly River past the illuminated Howrah Bridge, followed by a curated Bengali dinner.
Overnight: Kolkata

03

Sacred Rituals & Sandhi Puja (Maha Ashtami)

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the spiritual rhythm of Kolkata with the morning Pushpanjali ceremony, offering flowers in devotion to the Goddess. Take a relaxed afternoon pause before the evening’s highlight: the awe-inspiring Sandhi Puja. Feel the energy as rituals mark the sacred transition from Ashtami to Navami, a moment charged with devotion and spectacle.
Overnight: Kolkata

04

Heritage & Navami Aarti (Maha Navami)

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning with an optional heritage walk or cultural exploration around Kolkata’s iconic streets and hidden gems.
In the afternoon, witness the vibrant Navami Aarti, and explore select award-winning theme pandals, each a masterpiece of artistry, storytelling, and creativity. Capture every moment – from the intricately designed idols to the electrifying festive energy.
Overnight: Kolkata

05

Sindoor Khela & Immersion Procession (Vijayadashami)

After breakfast, dive into the colorful Sindoor Khela, where married women bid the Goddess farewell with vermilion rituals, laughter, and joy. Later, join the city in its emotional farewell during the immersion procession along the riverbanks. Watch as beautifully adorned idols are carried to the waters for Visarjan – a powerful, unforgettable cultural spectacle.
Overnight: Kolkata

06

Spiritual & Colonial Kolkata

After breakfast, slow down the pace and explore Kolkata’s spiritual and colonial heritage. Stroll along riverside ghats, visit the serene Belur Math monastery complex, and soak in the city’s peaceful rhythm after days of festive fervor. Evening at leisure – sip tea at a quaint café or stroll through the quiet streets.
Overnight: Kolkata

07

Markets, Cuisine & Cultural Immersion

After breakfast, explore Kolkata’s vibrant local markets, hunting for textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Optional Bengali cooking experiences or guided food walks allow you to taste the city in its purest form. Evening free to relax, discover café culture, or simply wander through the city’s creative districts.
Overnight: Kolkata

08

Departure

After breakfast, bid adieu to Kolkata as you transfer to the airport. Carry home memories of vibrant Durga Puja celebrations, colorful rituals, and the magic of a city that celebrates with unmatched passion.

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