The festival of Chhath Puja 2026 will be celebrated from November 13 to November 16, prompting a surge in travel demand. Flight fares between Indore and Patna have risen sharply, reaching ₹21,000, which is nearly equal to the price of a direct flight from Indore to Abu Dhabi, costing around ₹21,200.

There are no direct flights between Indore and Patna, forcing passengers to take connecting flights or consider other travel options. Thousands of Bihar residents working in Indore are returning home for the festival, but train tickets remain difficult to secure on online booking platforms. Confirmed seats are scarce, adding to the challenge for travelers.

For those who prefer road travel, direct buses cost between ₹7,300 and ₹7,600, according to Free Press Journal. However, the journey takes about 32 hours or more, making it an impractical option for families with children or elderly members.

Travelers now face three main choices: fly with a connection, endure a long bus ride, or attempt to book a train seat—each of which comes with high cost or significant time investment.