Visiting more than one iconic Pujo pandal in a single day is an essential Kolkata Durga Pujo experience. Talking about Kolkata’s iconic Durga Puja pandals, you cannot miss mentioning the Mohammad Ali Park and College Square pandals. They are located just 600 meters away from each other but offer a distinct contrast in their decor and idol design. So here’s how you can visit both these iconic pandals in just one evening. Check this Central Kolkata Pujo route guide.
Central Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal Hopping
Begin your day a bit early which is before the peak evening crowds gather. Take the Kolkata Blue Metro Line (Line 1), which starts from Dakshineshwar and ends at Kavi Subhash. Now get off at Mahatma Gandhi Road Metro Station (MG Road Metro Station). From here, you need to take an exit towards Chittaranjan Avenue (CR Avenue) or MG Road Junction. Now take a 3-minute walk south from here, which is about 200 metres. Mohammad Ali Park will be on your left.
Also Read: Where To Go Pandal Hopping In North Kolkata This Durga Puja 2026
Mohammad Ali Park Durga Pujo Pandal
Mohammad Ali Park pandal was established in the year 1969 by the Youth Association. It is known as one of the most anticipated and prestigious puja pandals in Central Kolkata. It is loved and celebrated for its grand scale and unbelievable structural art. The pandal has consistently created full-scale monumental replicas of global heritage sites, ancient temples, and historical places.
Every year’s celebration blends provoking social or environmental themes with beautiful, intricate craftsmanship. Inside the pandal sits the adorable Sabeki Durga idol, which is loved for its classic Bengali cultural features. The fact that, despite the grand modern theme, the central deity is rooted in the Sabeki Ekchala arrangements is what makes this pandal an iconic one.
For 2026, the theme is still under wraps, but the pandal, as usual, looks massive from outside as it rises multiple stories high. The perimeter transforms into a carnival ground with cultural performances, food kiosks, artisan stalls, and more for the five days of Pujo.
Also Read: Which Kolkata Durga Puja Pandals Are Inspired By Indian History In 2026?
Towards College Street
Head east from Mohammad Ali Park towards College Street along MG Road. You can also take the connecting central lane shortcut. Walk through the illuminated corridors, with streets decorated with temporary food stalls and hanging lights.
While reaching College Street, make sure you try the famous Daab Sherbet from Paramount Sherbet and Syrups. If you wish to eat anything, you can try the Kolkata-style Fowl Cutlet or Kaviraji from the famous Dilkhusa Cabin. You can also try various street food delicacies like Puchka, Mughlai Paratha, and Egg chicken rolls.
Moving forward, you will reach the iconic College Square Sarbojanin Durgotsav pandal.
College Square Sarbojanin Durgotsav
Established in 1948, College Square Sarbojanin Durgotsav is known as one of Central Kolkata’s most iconic pandals. It is loved for its nostalgia-infused festival traditions. What sets it apart from all the other pandal sis its signature setting. Yes, it is built directly over a vast historic water tank. This creates an enchanting mirror reflection of the grand structure across the lake.
The renowned light craftsmanship of Chandannagar lines the edges of the water, and the surrounding heritage arcades offer a breathtaking spectacle. Each year, the organizers present grand architectural concepts that include floating sacred shrines and international monuments. Beyond the visual spectacle, traditional rituals like Kumari Puja are hosted with great fervor. College Square is hence known as an unmissable centerpiece of Kolkata’s Durga Puja trail.
Also Read: Why Does Kolkata Celebrate Durga Puja For 5 Days? The Story Behind Sasthi To Dashami
Tips For Pandal Hopping On Central Kolkata Pujo Route
Make sure you rely exclusively on the Metro and avoid surface road transport such as rideshares, taxis, or buses. This is because MG Road, BB Ganguly Street, and Central Avenue face severe vehicular restrictions. The best way is to use the North-South (Blue Line) Metro, which travels via Central, MG Road, or Girish Park stations.
Try to begin your pandal hopping at dawn so that you do not have to wait in long queues. The ideal time is between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM. If early morning is not your option and you wish to explore the pandals at night, target the 1:00 AM to 4:00 AM window. This is another good time, as the illuminations stay lit and the queues clear up.
Wear comfortable clothes and cushioned footwear. Make sure you keep yourself hydrated by drinking water and juices. There are many small food stalls and street vendors around College Street offering amazing food and beverage options.
Also Read: Kolkata During Durga Puja 2026: 5 Must-Visit Places Beyond The Pandals
Note: This article was compiled after verifying current publicly available business information.
Summing Up
Being in Kolkata during Durga Puja and not exploring the Central Kolkata Pujo pandals is surely a crime! We have curated a route for you to easily explore two iconic pandals of Central Kolkata: Mohammad Ali Park and College Square. Make sure you save it or share it with your friends.
