Ashtami and Navami, the last two days of Durga Puja aren’t just about gorgeous pandals, rituals, and cultural performances, infact, its all what a food lover can ever dream of. From classic Bengali dishes to tasty street snacks, there’s something to try at every corner. So, if you’re planning to go pandal hopping, whether it’s Delhi’s oldest Durga Puja at Kashmere Gate or the lively Mela Ground in CR Park, these are the street foods you absolutely can’t miss.
Bhog
First things first, no Durga Puja pandal hopping is complete without bhog. Prepared as an offering to the goddess, bhog is served to devotees at most pandals and typically includes khichuri (a comforting mix of rice and lentils), labra (a medley of vegetables), and a sweet like sandesh or mishti doi. The warm flavors of khichuri paired with the subtly sweet desserts make this the perfect start to your culinary journey. Don’t miss it!
Puchka (Panipuri)
Puchka, or panipuri as it’s known elsewhere in India, is a street food classic. Hollow, crispy puris filled with tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and chickpeas, these little bites are a festival favorite. In 2025, some vendors are adding fun twists like cheese-stuffed or tangy-flavored puchkas, giving a fresh spin on a timeless snack. Ideal for snacking while moving between pandals.
Kathi rolls
Kathi rolls are perfect for on-the-go eating during Durga Puja evenings. A soft paratha is wrapped around spiced fillings such as egg, chicken, or mutton, along with onions and sauces. Handy, filling, and utterly tasty, kathi rolls have become a festival staple and are loved by people of all ages. They are particularly great when you want a satisfying bite without pausing your pandal hopping.
Beguni
Beguni is a traditional and irresistible snack. Thin slices of brinjal (eggplant) are dipped in a gram flour (besan) batter and fried until golden and crisp. Usually served as a side with khichuri during bhog and many Bengalis swear that a Durga Puja evening feels incomplete without this.
Jhalmuri
Jhalmuri is something you can ask the vendor to make as per your preference. It is made with puffed rice, mustard oil, chopped onions, chillies, and roasted peanuts, it’s light, spicy, and tangy. Jhalmuri is perfect for snacking while exploring pandals and the best part is that you can have it on the go.
Fish snacks
During Durga Puja, fish dishes is something every Bengali looks forward to. Macher jhol (fish curry) and fried ilish (hilsa fish) are among the favourites. So if you love fish, this is the time to treat your taste buds!
Desserts
During Durga Puja, sweet shops are full of traditional desserts such as rosogolla, sandesh, chomchom, and mishti doi. Though rates can go a little high during Durga Puja celebrations, having a piece or a slice would be enough to complete your meal.
Drinks and refreshers
All that walking, tasting, and hot weather will make you thirsty. Hence, it definitely calls for refreshing drinks. While exploring pandals, you must have sugarcane juice, lassi, and coconut water that will keep you safe from heat.
Tips for food lovers during Durga Puja pandal hopping
For food lovers during pandal hopping, a few simple tips can make your experience smoother. Go early, as bhog counters and popular stalls can run out quickly. Share and sample dishes with friends to enjoy a variety without overfilling. Stay hydrated by carrying water, especially if you’re munching on spicy street foods. And keep some cash handy, even though many vendors accept digital payments, smaller vendors often prefer cash.