The Kumbh Mela in 2025 will start in January and end in February. One should always check the main dates before planning to visit the Kumbh Mela. Here are the important dates for Shahi Snans or the Royal Bathings during this great religious festivity:
Paush Purnima: 13th January, 2025
Makar Sankranti: 14th January 2025 First Royal Bathing
Mauni Amavasya: 29th January 2025 Main Royal Bathing
Basant Panchami: 3rd February 2025 Royal Bathing
Magha Purnima: 12th February 2025
Maha Shivratri: 26th February 2025 Final Bathing Day
Millions of pilgrims and saints will come to the Sangam on these days. Bathing in absolute silence on Mauni Amavasya will provide the highest spiritual benefits.
By Air: There are flights from megacities like Delhi and Mumbai to Bamrauli Airport in Prayagraj. International travellers may take flights from Varanasi or Lucknow. If you are coming from Delhi, hire a car or book private transfers from airports in Varanasi or Lucknow.
By Train: Indian Railways will run special trains during the Kumbh Mela to accommodate pilgrims. Book your train tickets through IRCTC in advance, particularly for the main shahi Snan or Royal Bathing days.
By Road: Prayagraj is well connected to Lucknow, Varanasi, Delhi, and other cities through highways. People travelling from Delhi prefer Bus Rental Services, and these are comfortable and flexible for families or groups.
Throughout the event, the central government and state authorities will arrange numerous temporary accommodations, from basic tents to luxury camps. One can also stay in ashrams, hotels, and guesthouses.
Economy Tents: These are the most economical accommodation facilities available. They are located near the Sangam area and have shared bathrooms, perfect for pilgrims who want to stay in the close vicinity.
Deluxe Tents: For those who want a bit of comfort during this festival, deluxe tents have improved amenities, attached bathrooms, and more space. These tents comprise meals and are situated in upheld camping areas.
Luxury Camps: These camps have Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private bathrooms, and even personal butler services. They are situated in prime areas close to Sangam.
Hotels and Guesthouses: You can also choose to stay in hotels and guesthouses. A good idea is to book your hotels and guesthouses in advance to avoid last-minute issues with availability.
Shahi Snan Royal Bathing Ceremony
It is the main event of the Kumbh Mela. Various Akharas lead royal processions to the river before taking the holy dip. Thousands of Naga Sadhus march naked, with their ash-covered bodies, chanting and blowing conch shells. Seeing the Shahi Snan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many folks.
Triveni Sangam Bathing
In addition to the Shahi Snan, pilgrims can take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during the Kumbh Mela. Bathing in the Sangam of Ganga, Yamuna and the Invisible Saraswati is supposed to wash away all sins. You can go to the Sangam in a boat, where devotees take a holy dip.
Ganga Aarti
It takes place every evening on the riverbanks throughout the Kumbh. Diyas are lit, mantras are chanted, and flowers are offered to the river. Seeing thousands of lamps floating on the water is astounding and spiritual.
Akhara Processions
During the Kumbh Mela, these Akhara orders set up camps where they performed rituals, offered darshan, and delivered spiritual dissertations. Visiting these camps allows you to see ancient Hindu traditions up close.
Bhandaras
Many people offer free meals and Bandaras to all the pilgrims. Religious organizations and philanthropists offer these meals to devotees daily. Sharing a meal at a Bhandara is a prodigious way to experience the spirit of the Kumbh Mela.
Kumbh Mela can be transformative and overwhelming at the same time. With millions of tourists attending this mela, planning a smooth journey is important. Here are some tips to help you navigate the Kumbh Mela with ease.
Book in Advance: The Kumbh Mela attracts a large number of pilgrims and tourists, so bookings for lodgings and transport are necessary, whether you select budget tents, luxury camps, hotels, or guest houses. Advance bookings of trains, flights, or buses are also advisable for a hassle-free experience.
Travel Light, But Smart: As winters are coming down heavily in Northern India, remember to pack your bags with warm clothing, shoes, toiletries, medications, etc. Hand sanitizers and reusable water bottles should also not be missed. Some pilgrims also bring incense or holy texts to improve their experience.
Stay With Your Group: On major Royal Bathing days like Makar Sankranti, you should try to arrive early to have a good spot near the confluence. Always be sure to set definite meeting points with your pals beforehand so that you can find them easily, even if you are separated from your group.
Health and Safety Precautions: Carry bottled water and freshly cooked food. Ensure you are up to date with all your vaccinations and health examinations before coming to the Kumbh Mela. Also, use a waist pouch to protect your valuables, and try not to carry extra or unnecessary items.
Respect Local Customs: One should always keep in mind that this is a great spiritual gathering, so you should dress in accordance with that. You should also respect the privacy of pilgrims, particularly when you are taking photos or making videos. One should also not forget to ask for permission before snapping or filming rituals or even the holy men.
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