Mahakumbh, the grandest religious gathering in the world, is set to take place in 2025. This once-in-144-years event draws millions of devotees, sadhus, and tourists to the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Here’s an in-depth guide to ensure you make the most of this spiritual journey.
Dates and Schedule
The Mahakumbh 2025 will begin on January 14, 2025, and culminate on March 25, 2025. Key bathing dates, known as “Shahi Snan” (royal baths), are as follows:
- Makar Sankranti: January 14
- Paush Purnima: January 25
- Mauni Amavasya: February 9 (Major Shahi Snan)
- Basant Panchami: February 14
- Maghi Purnima: February 24
- Maha Shivratri: March 25
How to Reach Prayagraj
By Air
The nearest airport is Prayagraj Airport (Bamrauli), approximately 12 km from the city center. Alternatively, you can fly to Varanasi Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport), about 120 km away, or Lucknow Airport, 200 km away.
By Train
Prayagraj is well-connected via major trains like the Prayagraj Express, Duronto Express, and Magadh Express.
Key railway stations include:
- Prayagraj Junction
- Prayagraj Rambagh
- Prayagraj Chheoki
Key trains are:
- 12418 Prayagraj Express: Runs from New Delhi to Prayagraj Jn
- 11061 Pawan Express: Runs from Lokmanya Tilak Term to Prayagraj Jn
- 12293 Mumbai LTT-Prayagraj AC Duronto Express: Covers 1342 km to reach Prayagraj Jn Station
- 12404 BKN PRYJ SF EXP: Lalgarh – Prayagraj SF Express (Via Fatehpur Shekhawati)
By Road
Prayagraj is accessible via the NH19 and NH30 highways. Regular buses run from nearby cities like Varanasi, Lucknow, and Kanpur. Private taxis and car rentals are also available.
By Waterways
For a unique experience, you can travel via the National Waterway-1 from Varanasi to Prayagraj.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options during Mahakumbh range from luxury hotels to ashrams and tented camps. Early booking is essential due to high demand.
Luxury Hotels
- Kanha Shyam Hotel
- Address: Civil Lines, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211001
- Features: Centrally located with modern amenities and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
- Currently the price is approximately INR 17.7k.
- The Legend Hotel
- Address: 23C, Thornhill Road, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211001
- Features: Known for its comfort, service, and well-furnished rooms.
- Currently the price is approximately INR 6k.
Tented Camps
- Kumbh Mela Tents
- Location: Near Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj
- Features: Premium and deluxe tents with modern facilities like attached bathrooms and dining options.
- Indraprastham City Tents
- Location: Sector C, Tent City, Prayagraj
- Features: A blend of luxury and cultural immersion with 24-hour security and guided tours.
Budget Options
- Dharamshalas and Ashrams
- Anand Bhawan Ashram: Near Jawahar Planetarium, Prayagraj.
- Parmarth Ashram: Near Sangam area, Prayagraj.
- Contact local management for booking.
- Guesthouses
- Affordable guesthouses are scattered across the city, especially near Civil Lines and the railway station.
Where to Eat
Prayagraj offers a mix of local delicacies and traditional food, catering to all budgets and preferences.
Street Food
- Loknath Gali
- Famous for chaat, samosas, and golgappas.
- Location: Near Chowk Area, Prayagraj.
- Civil Lines
- Renowned for kachori-sabzi and lassi stalls.
- Location: Near the Civil Lines Bus Stand.
- Kulfi and Rabri
- Available near Anand Bhawan and other prominent tourist areas.
Restaurants
- El Chico
- Address: 23/5, Sardar Patel Marg, Civil Lines, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211001
- Contact: +91 532 2427424
- Features: A popular spot for multi-cuisine dishes and desserts.
- Netram Mulchand and Sons
- Address: 51, Johnstonganj, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211003
- Contact: +91 532 2404732
- Features: Renowned for its authentic North Indian thalis and snacks.
- Pind Balluchi
- Address: Vinayak City Centre, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Civil Lines, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211001
- Contact: +91 532 2563456
- Features: Known for Punjabi cuisine and a warm ambiance.
How to Book
Accommodation
- Online portals like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, and Goibibo list hotels and camps.
- Dedicated Mahakumbh websites often feature ashrams and tent stays.
- Contact local tour operators for package deals.
Travel
- Book train tickets through the IRCTC portal well in advance.
- For flights, use aggregators like Skyscanner or directly book via airline websites.
Entry Passes
Entry to the Kumbh area is free, but special passes may be required for certain events or VIP areas. Check the official Mahakumbh website for updates.
What to Do at Mahakumbh 2025
Holy Bathing
The highlight of Mahakumbh is the sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam, believed to cleanse sins and grant moksha (liberation).
Spiritual Discourses
Attend pravachans (sermons) by renowned saints and spiritual leaders. Many akharas (monastic orders) hold enlightening sessions.
Cultural Events
Enjoy folk performances, yoga sessions, and exhibitions showcasing Indian heritage.
Visit Akharas
Interact with Naga sadhus and other spiritual groups, learning about their unique practices.
Explore Prayagraj
- Allahabad Fort
- Managed by the Archaeological Survey of India, this fort is a historical marvel with limited access.
- Anand Bhavan
- Address: 1, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211001
- Contact: +91 532 2411728
- Features: Home to the Nehru family, now a museum.
- Khusro Bagh
- Address: GT Road, Near Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211003
- Features: A serene Mughal garden with historical tombs.
Tips for Visitors
- Plan Early: Book your stay and travel tickets months in advance.
- Pack Smart: Carry warm clothing (January-February can be chilly), comfortable footwear, and essentials like power banks.
- Stay Hydrated: Use bottled water to avoid health issues.
- Safety First: Beware of pickpockets and avoid overcrowded areas.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and follow cultural norms.
Summing Up
Mahakumbh 2025 promises to be a life-changing experience, blending spirituality, culture, and history. By planning ahead and keeping this guide handy, you can ensure a seamless and enriching journey to one of India’s most revered festivals.
