Tour operators are anticipating an unprecedented surge in tourist arrivals in West Bengal during the upcoming Durga Puja season, provided there is no resurgence of Covid-19. Bookings and inquiries are flooding in from various countries and states across India. Anil Punjabi, the chairman of the Travel Agents Federation of India’s eastern region, mentioned a growing trend of travelers from West Bengal exploring destinations in Europe and the Far East, in addition to domestic spots.
“We are expecting substantial business this time if there is no Covid surge,” Punjabi stated optimistically to PTI. Raj Basu, the convenor of the Association for Conservation of Tourism, noted that numerous forest and hill destinations in the state have been booked from early October through Diwali.
With a significant influx of bookings and inquiries from both international and domestic travelers, Punjabi predicts that tourist arrivals in Kolkata and other parts of the state will reach an “all-time high” this season. The inclusion of Durga Puja in Kolkata in UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage in 2021 has heightened interest among foreign and domestic tourists.
Punjabi revealed a substantial demand from foreigners to visit Kolkata and other parts of Bengal. Expectations include NRIs with foreign companions coming from Europe, the USA, Canada, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Singapore, along with independent travelers from various countries. Post-Durga Puja celebrations, many are expected to venture to the hills for a cooler climate.
While the grand community pujas in Kolkata remain popular, there is a rising interest in visiting the historic ‘zamindar bari’ pujas known for their heritage and adherence to rituals.
Tourists from various regions are drawn to Kolkata for the five-day Durga Puja festivities in October. Simultaneously, a significant number of locals in Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal are inclined toward quieter destinations. Punjabi highlighted growing interest and bookings for European, Middle Eastern, Maldivian, and Far Eastern destinations like Thailand and Vietnam, facilitated by direct flight connectivity with Kolkata.
Concerns about high travel costs during the summer season, including exorbitant taxi fares and car rental prices, have prompted travel operators to call for government intervention. Raj Basu emphasized the need for state governments to announce a policy by September 15 to regulate car hiring costs, ensuring a hassle-free and affordable experience for tourists. The focus is shifting towards rural and offbeat destinations as people express more interest in exploring beyond main towns.
