The Early Bird Catches the Deal
For many Kolkatans, the five days of Durga Puja are the perfect opportunity for a getaway. But in 2026, the familiar trend of festive travel has a new sense of urgency. Instead of waiting until after Mahalaya, families and solo travellers are locking
in their plans now, in August. Travel agents across the city report a significant uptick in early bookings for the Puja holidays, which fall in October this year. The primary motivation is financial. There's a widespread belief, supported by travel industry experts, that waiting any longer will mean paying a steep premium. Travellers are becoming more strategic, adapting to a market where last-minute deals are increasingly rare. This has shifted the booking window several weeks, or even months, earlier than usual.
Decoding the Price Surge
The fear of rising prices is not unfounded. Several factors are converging to make travel more expensive. A significant reason is the rising cost of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), which makes up a large portion of an airline's operating expenses. This cost is inevitably passed on to consumers through higher fares and fuel surcharges. Furthermore, geopolitical issues have led to airspace restrictions on some popular long-haul routes, forcing airlines to fly longer, more fuel-intensive paths. This, combined with a resilient demand for travel and a weaker rupee making international trips pricier, creates a perfect storm for inflated holiday budgets. Experts note that what cost ₹2-3 lakh for an international trip previously is now closer to ₹3-5 lakh. Domestic hotel rates in popular destinations also see a sharp spike during the Puja week, with occupancy rates soaring.
Where is Everyone Going?
The destinations of choice reflect a mix of old favourites and new interests. Internationally, Southeast Asia remains a top draw for its accessibility and value. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Bali, and Singapore are seeing heavy bookings from Kolkata. These destinations offer a blend of culture, luxury, and adventure that appeals to festive holidaymakers. Domestically, the evergreen choices remain popular. Many are heading towards the hills of North Bengal, with tour packages to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Sikkim being snapped up quickly. The serene beaches of the Dooars and the spiritual tranquility of places like Arunachal Pradesh are also high on the list for those looking to escape the city bustle. Many tour operators are offering all-inclusive packages with confirmed train tickets to cater to the high demand and bypass festive travel anxiety.
A Traveller’s Dilemma: Book Now or Wait?
Given the market dynamics, the consensus among travel professionals is clear: book sooner rather than later. For popular destinations, especially during the peak Puja dates from Shashthi to Dashami (September 28 - October 2), prices are unlikely to drop. In fact, flight fares from major cities to Kolkata for those returning home for the festival can spike by 60-90% for last-minute bookings. If your travel dates are fixed, waiting for a last-minute deal in 2026 is a risky strategy. Experts advise that if you find a flight or package that fits your budget, it's safer to book it now than to gamble on a price drop that may never come. For those with more flexibility, travelling just before or after the main Puja week can offer some respite from the highest fares. Considering alternative destinations that are less crowded during the holidays can also be a smart move to manage costs without sacrificing the holiday spirit.
