Let's go pandal hopping!

If Durga Puja is a time for prayers and reverence, its no less a time for celebration - for catching all the action in the city, and of course enjoying delicious food. Though Navratri in Delhi is nine days of fun, its best part is five nights of pandal hopping, during which you spot the most beautiful idol, the most innovative pandal, gorge on the best food and also enjoy endless rounds of shopping. Here's a list of some interesting and must-visit pandals in Delhi.

* Safdarjung Enclave:

The Matri Mandir Durga Puja pandal is one of the best puja pandals in Delhi. It thematic décor has won it many awards over the past years. Last year, the pandal was themed on "Women's Empowerment" and had statues of renowned personalities like Mother Teresa and Lata Mangeskar.
Where: Matri Mandir Rd, Block B 2, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi
Nearest Metro stations: Green Park, RK Puram Sector 1 and Bhikaji Kama Palace.

* Kashmere Gate:

Going back to 1910, this is one of the oldest pandals in Delhi. Organised under the aegis of the Delhi Durga Puja Charitable and Cultural Samiti, the pandals here have retained their classic simplicity and traditional Durga idol.
Where: Bengali Sr. Sec School, Alipur Road, New Delhi
Nearest Metro station: Kashmere Gate

* Chittaranjan Park:

Delhi's own mini Bengal cannot be given a miss during Navratri, when it is soaked in cultural revelry. The four main Durga puja pandals in the area are buzzing with people enjoying the cultural extravaganza that spills on to the roads during these five nights. CP Park is a must-visit during this time if you want to savour authentic Bengali delicacies.
Where Mandir Complex, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi
Nearest Metro: Nehru Place, GK 1

* Aram Bagh, RK Ashram:

The Aram Bagh Durga Puja pandal is known for its thematic décor made by artisans, often brought from Bangladesh. Its jute-based eco-friendly pandal two years ago was much loved. The celebrations here are traditional, but with a modern twist. They also hold Rabindra Sangeet and recitation competition for children. And of course, a there's a lot of good food.
Where: 2033, Chitragupta Rd, Type 3, Block B, Aram Bagh, Jhandewalan, New Delhi

Nearest Metro: R.K Ashram

* Timarpur and Civil Lines:

The century old Timarpur Durga Pujo pandal is where you can experience a typical Kolkata vibe seeped in the city's culture, art and of course food.
Where: 33, Rajpur Road, Civil Lines

Nearest Metro: Civil Lines. IANS