Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh is all set to host the Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the biggest religious gatherings in the world, from January 13 to February 25, 2025. At the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, millions of devotees are expected to participate in this event to seek blessings and take a holy dip.
This kumbh mela, which occurs every 12 years, this major Hindu festival attracts millions of worshippers who come to bathe at the holy Triveni Sangam, where the Yamuna, Ganga, and the mythical Saraswati rivers converge. Here are ten key points for those planning to attend the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj as the festival approaches:
World’s Largest Religious Gathering
The Maha Kumbh Mela is known as the largest religious gathering globally, attracting pilgrims from around the world to Prayagraj for a sacred bath at the confluence of the Yamuna, Saraswati, and Ganga rivers.
Dates and Budget for Maha Kumbh 2025
It's fixed to commence on January 14, 2025, the Maha Kumbh Mela will span 4,000 hectares along the riverbank and is projected to attract at least 400 million visitors, with an estimated budget of ₹6,382 crore.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Last-Minute Issues
Given the large turnout at Kumbh Mela, it is important to arrange accommodations and travel plans soon. Booking your lodging—be it tents, hotels, or dharamshalas—well in advance is very necessary. To avoid last-minute price rise and no availability, purchase your train or flight tickets as soon as possible.
Auspicious Days for Ritual Bathing
- January 14, 2025: Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan)
- January 13, 2025: Paush Purnima
February 3, 2025: Third Shahi Snan's Basant Panchami
March 12, 2025: Maghi Purnima
Maha Shivratri, February 26, 2025 (Final Snan)
Pack Winter Clothing
It is important to bring warm clothing such as inner layers, socks, scarves, gloves, hats, and heavy jackets, as the area around the Sangam can be very cold. Moreover, the weather during the Maha Kumbh can change unexpectedly, so carrying an umbrella is wise.
Enhanced Security Measures
The authorities will install 2,300 CCTV cameras throughout Prayagraj and the Maha Kumbh venue to assist with large crowd monitoring, incident management, and cleanliness efforts. Their plans also include the construction of 145,000 restrooms and 99 temporary parking lots covering 1,850 hectares, as reported by India TV.
Essential Items to Bring
- Identification card
- Reservation details
- Any necessary documentation
- First aid kit, mask, hand sanitizer
Spiritual Talks and Cultural Activities
Devotees can attend lectures (spiritual discourses) by renowned saints and gurus. The Mela will also feature cultural programs, including dramas of mythological stories, devotional music, and folk dances.
Follow Administrative Guidelines
Volunteers, police, and administrative personnel will be present at the Maha Kumbh venue. Adhering to the administration's guidelines is essential for both convenience and safety during your visit. Given the significant increase in traffic and crowds, you must carefully plan your itinerary and listen to the advice of the authorities before visiting key sites.
Significance of the Festival
The festival's importance is rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures that date back many thousands of years. Its deepest mystery is linked to the story of Samudra Manthan (the churning of the ocean), where drops of the nectar of immortality fell in four locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain.