Kali, also known as Shyama Kali, is the first of the ten incarnations of Goddess Durga. Kali Puja, also called Shyama or Mahanisha Puja, is observed on the new moon day of Kartik, coinciding with Diwali’s Lakshmi Puja. This year, it falls on October 31.
The festival is widely observed in West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Tripura, Bangladesh, and Titwala in Maharashtra. In this article, we discuss the top cities for celebrating Kali Puja and how a travel loan can help make your trip memorable and stress-free.
Best Places to Visit for Kali Puja
1. Kolkata, West Bengal
Kolkata is the epicentre of Kali Puja celebrations. The city transforms into a vibrant hub of devotion and festivity, with thousands of beautifully decorated pandals. Must-visit spots include Dakshineshwar Temple, renowned for its spiritual atmosphere and grand gatherings, and Kalighat Temple, one of India’s oldest and most revered Kali shrines, drawing crowds for its profound rituals and deep-rooted devotion.
2. Delhi
The capital of India hosts significant Kali Puja celebrations as well, with the oldest being at the Kashmere Gate Kalibari, dating back to 1910. Another notable location is the Matri Mandir Samity in Safdarjung Enclave, known for its traditional rituals and well-organised ceremonies
3. Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Bhubaneshwar also celebrates Kali Puja with grandeur, especially at the Kalikhetra temple. The city’s elaborate rituals and large-scale celebrations draw visitors from across the city, adding to the festive spirit.
4. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Grand Kali Puja celebrations are also held in Mumbai, particularly in areas with a significant Bengali population. Notable locations include the Sarvojanin Kali Puja Committee (SKPC), known for its extensive cultural programs and Bhog distribution, and Sarvajanik Kalipuja Sion Agma, a major site where thousands of devotees participate in the festivities.
5. Guwahati, Assam
Guwahati is home to the Kamakhya Temple, an important site for Kali Puja. This temple attracts devotees seeking spiritual experiences and mystical rituals, making it a unique place to observe the festival.
How to budget your trip?
Planning a trip during Kali Puja requires meticulous budgeting to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you manage your expenses:
1. Plan ahead
Start planning your trip well in advance. This includes booking flights or train tickets early to avail better prices. Early planning also gives you the flexibility to choose from a broader range of accommodations.
2. Set a budget
Determine a realistic budget for your trip. This should include travel expenses, accommodation, food, local transportation, and any additional costs like entry fees for tourist spots. Sticking to your budget helps in avoiding overspending.
3. Look for deals and discounts
Keep an eye out for discounts on travel and accommodation. Many travel websites and apps offer special deals during festive seasons, which can significantly reduce your expenses.
4. Use public transport
Opt for public transport instead of private cabs to reduce transportation costs. Many cities offer efficient and affordable public transportation options.
5. Emergency fund
Always keep aside a small emergency fund for unforeseen expenses. This ensures that you are prepared for any unforeseen situations without disrupting your trip.
How can securing a travel loan help you make the most of your trips?
Travelling during Kali Puja can be a significant expense, but securing a travel loan can ease your financial burden and allow you to enjoy your trip without worries. Here’s how it can help you –
1. High loan amount
Planning a trip involves various expenses such as bus, flight, and accommodation tickets. These costs can be pretty high, especially if you plan to go abroad for a luxury vacation. A travel loan can help by offering amounts up to Rs. 35 lakhs, allowing you to plan your dream trip without financial constraints.
2. Flexible repayment options
These loans offer flexible repayment options, allowing you to choose a tenure that suits your financial situation. This ensures you can repay the loan comfortably over time.
3. Competitive interest rates
Another key benefit of travel loans is their competitive interest rates, which make them an affordable alternative to credit cards or other high-interest borrowing methods.
4. No need to break fixed deposits
If you’re planning a trip, you don’t have to liquidate your investments. Instead, you can opt for a travel loan to finance your trip, keeping your savings intact.
5. Quick disbursal
A travel loan provides immediate access to funds, enabling you to plan your trip without delay. This is particularly useful if you come across last-minute deals or sudden travel plans.
How to apply for a travel loan?
Applying for a travel loan is an easy and hassle-free process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
1. Check eligibility
Visit the lender’s website to check the eligibility criteria for a travel loan. Generally, you need to meet the following requirements:
– You must be between 21 and 58 years old.
– Your minimum monthly income must be Rs. 15,000.
– You must have a minimum of one year of work experience.
2. Calculate the loan amount
Determine the amount you need for your trip. Use online loan calculators to understand the EMI and repayment tenure that fits your budget.
3. Gather documents
Collect all necessary documents such as address proof, identity proof, income proof, and travel details. Having these documents assembled in advance will speed up the application process.
4. Apply online
Most financial institutions offer online application facilities. To apply online, follow these steps:
– Visit your preferred lender’s website.
– Navigate to the personal loan section and select the travel loan option. Click on ‘Apply Now.’
– Enter your PAN card number and other required details.
– Fill in the application form with your personal, banking, and loan details.
– Upload the necessary documents and submit your application.
5. Await approval
Once you submit your application, the lender will review it and process your request. If approved, the sanctioned loan amount will be promptly disbursed to your bank account.
To wrap up
Kali Puja is a perfect occasion to explore new destinations and immerse yourself in India’s cultural festivities. Whether you choose to visit Kolkata, Guwahati, Mumbai, or Delhi, planning and budgeting your trip is crucial.
If you have finalised your destination but budget stands in your way, consider opting for a travel loan from Tata Capital. We offer high loan amounts with minimal documentation and a smooth disbursal process. You can use the funds to cover all travel-related expenses, from accommodations and tickets to travel packages.
So why wait? Visit the Tata Capital website or download the Tata Capital app to apply for a travel loan.
27 August 2024
6 mins read
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