Each autumn, Kolkata comes alive as the stage for Bengal’s grandest celebration—Durga Puja. Though firmly rooted in religious tradition, the festival has grown into a dazzling expression of art, culture, and community spirit. Streets turn into open-air galleries, and entire neighbourhoods collaborate to create elaborate installations and themed pandals. In recognition of its scale, creativity, and social significance, UNESCO added Kolkata’s Durga Puja to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021. If you’re visiting the city during this festive season, consider staying somewhere that adds to the magic—whether it’s a riverside retreat along the Hooghly or a character-filled heritage mansion. These atmospheric stays promise to make your Kolkata experience even more memorable.
Kolkata is home to more surviving heritage houses than any other Indian metro, showcasing a unique blend of British colonial and local architectural styles. These homes feature ornate facades, airy verandas with pillars, high ceilings, and inner courtyards suited to the climate. Many have been restored and turned into boutique stays. One such example is Calcutta Bungalow, a 1920s townhouse in North Kolkata, revived by Iftekhar Ahsan of Calcutta Walks and his friend Chris Chen. Each room draws from the city’s history, reflecting trades of old neighbourhoods. The Mochipara room, for example, is dedicated to cobblers and displays vintage leather bags once used by tram and bus conductors—subtle yet powerful nods to Kolkata’s layered past. Perfect for an atmospheric Durga Puja stay.
For more details, check here - www.calcuttabungalow.com.
Address: 5, Radha Kanta Jew St, Fariapukur, Shyambazar
The Red Bari is a beautifully restored 1920s heritage building near Kalighat that blends old-world charm with modern functionality. Retaining original features like mosaic floors, wooden door frames, and high ceilings, it offers a vibrant space for community, creativity, and short-term stays. The ground floor houses a cosy café serving coffee, snacks, and meals in a warm, aesthetic setting.
Upper levels include a dedicated coworking space for remote workers and professionals. The top floor offers short-term accommodation, allowing guests to experience living in a historic Kolkata home with contemporary comforts. This unique stay, available through Airbnb, provides an immersive experience of the city’s architectural legacy while fostering a sense of community through its cultural and artistic spaces.
For more details, call 089106 73389.
Address: 18, Sadananda Rd, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026
If you're looking to soak in Kolkata’s genteel colonial charm, this heritage hotel is the perfect stop. Housed in a 1783 building on Sudder Street—close to Park Street, Victoria Memorial, and the Maidan—it exudes old-world atmosphere. Once run by eccentric memsahib Violet Smith, it has hosted an eclectic mix of celebrities, including Nobel laureate Günter Grass, musician Sting, playwright Tom Stoppard, and actor Patrick Swayze. Now managed by Elgin Hotels & Resorts, the interiors are filled with antiques, vintage furniture, and soft furnishings. Room 17 is famously known as "The Shashi Kapoor Room," named after the actor who stayed often. With creaky floors, rich history, and a central location, this hotel is full of personality and timeless charm.
For more details, check here - www.elginhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata-elgin-fairlawn-heritage-hotel-since-1783.
Address: 13A, Sudder St, Fire Brigade Head Quarter, Esplanade, Dharmatala
Docked on the Hooghly River off Strand Road, the Polo Floatel is a floating boutique hotel offering stunning views between the iconic Howrah and Vidyasagar Setus. Accessed via a jetty on the river, the marine-themed reception leads to well-appointed cabins with vintage décor, colonial-era maps, and Calcutta-inspired souvenirs. Room categories include Strand and River View Cabins, Suites with balconies, and Heritage Suites with private decks. Each offers modern comforts like Wi-Fi, in-room dining, TVs, and wardrobes. The hotel also features The Bridge – Bistro Bar, an all-day multi-cuisine restaurant with river views, making this a unique stay that blends old-world charm with riverside luxury.
For more details, check here - www.hotelpolotowers.com/polo-floatel-kolkata.
Address: 9, Jetty, 10, Strand Rd, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001
This elegant boutique hotel is a passion project by the team behind Darjeeling’s Glenburn Tea Estate, once featured in Tatler’s list of the world’s top hotels. Tucked into the top two floors of a central Kolkata office building, it offers nine beautifully curated rooms. Some suites boast views of the Victoria Memorial, while others have private gardens with jacuzzis. Interiors feature antique Burma teak four-poster beds, mirrored desks with elephant-head handles, and luxurious bathrooms with bathtubs, walk-in showers, and Glenburn’s signature Darjeeling green-tea bath products. The rooftop infinity pool opens onto sweeping city views. Highlights include a Paris-made trippy wallpaper in the restaurant, pink chandeliers in the lounge, and a charming cafe.
For more details, check here - www.glenburnpenthouse.com.
Address: Kanak Towers, 7A Russell Street
What is the significance of Durga Puja in Kolkata?
Durga Puja celebrates Goddess Durga's annual visit to her parental home, symbolising a sense of "homecoming." It's a blend of religion and art, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
When does Durga Puja take place this year?
The main festivities start from September 28 and end on October 2 (Dashami).
What are the best activities to enjoy during Durga Puja?
Visit themed pandals, enjoy traditional music and dance performances, shop for crafts at fairs, and savour authentic Bengali festive food.
What is 'pandal hopping'?
Pandal hopping involves visiting elaborately decorated temporary pavilions (pandals) that house Durga idols. It's a central activity during the festival, showcasing creativity and community spirit.
Where can I experience traditional Durga Puja rituals?
Temples and pandals across Kolkata hold daily rituals and prayers, especially during the main days of the festival.
Are there special food stalls during Durga Puja?
Absolutely! Streets and pandals feature stalls selling Bengali sweets, street food, and festival delicacies like luchi, aloo dum, and misti.
