Mahakumbh Mela 2025: The Mahakumbh Mela, a grand Hindu festival, is held every 12 years at four sacred sites: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. It attracts millions of devotees seeking spiritual purification by bathing in holy rivers. The 2025 Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj is scheduled from January 13 to February 26, offering pilgrims the opportunity to perform rituals at the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
Unique significance of Mahakumbh Mela
The Maha Kumbh Mela stands apart as the most sacred of all Kumbh Melas, occurring once every 144 years. This event, distinguished by unique celestial alignments, attracts nearly 400 million visitors, significantly more than the regular Kumbh Mela. The next Maha Kumbh after 2025 will not take place until 2169, enhancing its significance for devotees.
Astrological factors, particularly the positions of Jupiter and the Sun, determine the timing of this auspicious festival. Participants believe bathing during the Maha Kumbh Mela cleanses sins and grants moksha (liberation).
2025 event schedule
Start Date: January 13, 2025 (Paush Purnima)
End Date: February 26, 2025 (Maha Shivratri)
Key bathing dates (Royal Snans)
January 14, 2025: Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan)
January 29, 2025: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan)
February 3, 2025: Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan)
February 12, 2025: Maghi Purnima
Types of Kumbh Mela
- Maha Kumbh Mela: Held every 144 years in Prayagraj, it is the most auspicious.
- Purna Kumbh Mela: Occurs every 12 years at all four locations.
- Ardh Kumbh Mela: Takes place every six years in Prayagraj and Haridwar.
- Magh Mela: An annual event in Prayagraj during the month of Magha (January-February).
Accommodation and tent booking
Pilgrims can book accommodations ranging from basic tents to luxury setups. To reserve:
- Visit official websites such as IRCTC Tourism or Kumbh.gov.in.
- Choose a tent type (Rs 1,500–Rs 35,000 per night).
- Specify dates and complete the payment online.
- Book early due to high demand, especially around peak bathing dates.
Shahi Snan: The Royal Bath
The Shahi Snan is a pivotal ritual marked by elaborate processions led by ascetics and spiritual leaders. Devotees believe this sacred bath purifies sins and enhances spiritual blessings.
Why is Mahakumbh celebrated?
The festival traces its origins to the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) from Hindu mythology, during which drops of nectar fell at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. These sites became sacred pilgrimage destinations.
Do’s and don’ts for pilgrims
Do’s:
Plan ahead and use official apps for guidance.
Travel light and stay informed about facilities.
Use designated areas for bathing and waste disposal.
Don’ts:
Refrain from polluting rivers or using plastic bags.
By following these guidelines, visitors can ensure a safe, spiritual, and fulfilling experience at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.