Hotels turn into festive destinations as bookings soar

Durga Puja has always been Kolkata’s heartbeat. But ever since the festival was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021, the city has seen an influx of travellers - both international tourists and local staycationers - who want to live the Puja magic from the front row. This year, luxury hotels across the city are reporting packed bookings, curated experiences, and festive calendars that mirror the grandeur of the season.

Rooms gone before the dhak starts
Premium rooms and family suites are vanishing fast. “We are witnessing a very strong demand this year, with many categories already close to being sold out,” says Manisha Sharma, General Manager, The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat. At another property, the pattern is the same. “Compared to past years, we have seen a marked increase in early reservations, particularly from guests who plan their Pujo holidays well in advance,” says Glen Dsouza, General Manager, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata. Even in the outskirts, villas are leading demand. “Our Earth Villas and One-Bedroom Villas are emerging as the most sought-after choices,” adds Rajib Roy Choudhury, Associate Vice President, Vedic Village Spa Resort.


NRIs, tourists, and city staycationers
The city is drawing a mix of guests this year — from domestic travellers and NRIs to international tourists who see Pujo as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. “Durga Puja is more than a festival – it is an emotion, an experience, and now, a global heritage,” says Pramode Bhandari, Area General Manager, The Park Kolkata. “A large portion of bookings are coming from international travelers and NRIs returning home to celebrate Pujo with their families,” adds Dsouza. Meanwhile, locals are checking in for staycations to be at the heart of the action.


From bhog to buffets, dandiya to dance floors
Hotels are turning their dining tables and dance floors into festive stages. “Every year, we curate experiences that blend the city’s festive spirit with our signature hospitality,” says Mr. Kamal Raza, General Manager, The LaLiT Great Eastern Kolkata, referring to live music, Dandiya Nights, and their exclusive Navami Party. Lavish spreads are also central to the celebrations. At different properties, Mahabhoj-style buffets, themed evenings, rooftop grills, and even midnight feasts are keeping the season alive long after pandals close for the night.


Calm beyond the city buzz
For those who want to step away from Kolkata’s frenzy, the outskirts offer slower-paced celebrations. “We see Durga Puja not just as a festive season, but as a time for our guests to reconnect with family, tradition, and wellness,” says Rajib Roy Choudhury. Pottery, alpona-making, dandiya, folk performances and cultural evenings round out the line-up before the season culminates in Debi Boron and Sindoor Khela.

Puja trends at a glance
Occupancy: Premium suites, city- and lake-view rooms, and villas are almost sold out.
Who’s coming: Strong domestic market, high NRI traffic, rising foreign arrivals.
Staycation boom: City dwellers booking in for live puja, festive feasts, and nightlife.
Dining focus: Mahabhoj buffets, themed evenings, and midnight spreads in demand.
Cultural add-ons: Pottery, alpona, dandiya, folk performances, and Navami parties.


“Durga Puja is the largest open-air art festival in the world that is publicly funded. There are more than 2,500 art installations in every nook and corner of the city. Few celebrations rival its scale and splendour" - Niloy Nag, Founder, Flying Squirrel Holidays





“Ever since Durga Puja in Kolkata got the UNESCO tag, the city has become the world’s festive capital. Tourists are pouring in, airfares have shot up, and hotels are full. For the city, this surge is not just business but sharing its cultural soul with the world,” - Arunodoy Dey, owner of Paperboat Holidays.