The months of January to March in 2025 are especially auspicious for Hindus. Why, you may ask? Well, the Maha Kumbh Mela – the largest religious gathering in the world – is taking place from January 14, 2025, to March 25, 2025. The religious gathering will see millions of devotees celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime event that takes place once every 144 years! If you too happen to experience the divinity of this celebration, here are a few exciting things to do in Maha Kumbh Mela Haridwar 2025.
Top 5 Best Things To Do in Maha Kumbh Mela Haridwar
1. Take A Dip At The Triveni Sangam
The holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati meet at the confluence named the Triveni Sangam.
This confluence is considered to be one of the holiest places in Hinduism where thousands of devotees take a dip to cleanse off their sins.
The best time to do so is in the early morning hours, and especially on the auspicious Shahi Snaan Dates. These are mentioned below:
- 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
Expect the place to be crowded almost at all times, but being a little patient and being aware of your surroundings will help you get the best experience.
2. Witness The Naga Sadhu Procession
Maha Kumbh Mela is known for hosting thousands of Naga Sadhus – ascetics living away from human society and only returning for the Mela.
The Naga Sadhus smear their bodies with ash, keep their hair in locks, and do not wear any clothes. These ascetics renounce their worldly possessions and only spend their time meditating and practicing spiritual lessons.
During the festival, you are guaranteed to see plenty of Naga Sadhus meditating, celebrating, and dipping in the holy waters, and it is quite a mesmerizing sight to witness their sheer presence!
3. Attend The Akhara Processions
The Maha Kumbh Mela is expected to witness 13 different Akharas – monastic orders attending the celebration this year. Think of these as separate spiritual fraternities, each with their own philosophies and rituals.
While we’ve mentioned about one of them – the Naga Sadhus, there will be 12 more such Akharas marking their presence in colorful processions. These processions will see them dancing, singing, chanting hymns, and even performing magic.
One of the most recent Akharas is the Kinnar Akhara that debuted in 2019.
This order of ascetics and pilgrims is constituted by transgender and gender-fluid people who now assert their marginalized presence in the society and religion.
Who knew the Maha Kumbh Mela will also feature a religious Pride Parade of sorts?
4. Take Part In The Ganga Aarti
If you are attending Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, this one must definitely be on your checklist. The Ganga Aarti is a beautiful sight to witness, as thousands of devotees chant aartis and hymns honoring Goddess Ganga among other deities.
The mere sight of giant diyas and the priests wavering them in a clockwise direction is quite breathtaking and you should definitely be a part of it.
We recommend visiting the Sangam Ghat or Dashashvamedh Ghat to get the best views of the aarti. Also, the aarti takes place daily just after sunset, so arrive early to grab a good viewing spot!
5. Attend The Cultural Performances In Kalagram, Prayagraj
This year, devotees and visitors will be treated to a repertoire of cultural performances at Kalagram, Prayagraj.
Located in the 10-acre Nagavasuki area, the Kalagram will feature exciting performances, light-and-sound shows, and cultural exhibitions.
With over 15,000 cultural artists performing on various stages, the shows will be curated by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Zonal Cultural Centers, and various other art institutions.
Witnessing the folk and regional performances, trying out different regional cuisines, and immersing yourself in the festive celebrations of the Maha Kumbh will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Significance of The Mahakumbh Mela
The Mahakumbh Mela is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed that drops of Amrit (nectar) fell at the four locations during a celestial churning of the ocean between gods and demons.
These spots became sacred, and bathing in the rivers during the Mela is believed to cleanse sins and grant spiritual merit.
How To Reach Prayagraj For Maha Kumbh Mela
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
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.
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Summing Up
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. After How Many Years Maha Kumbh Is Held?
The Kumbh Mela follows a 12-year cycle determined by the celestial alignment of the sun, moon, and Jupiter. After this cycle repeats 12 times (12 x 12 = 144 years), the 12th Kumbh Mela, known as the Mahakumbh, is celebrated on an extraordinary scale.
Q2. What Are The 4 Places Of Mahakumbh?
The 4 holy places where the Kumbh Mela is held are Ujjain, Nashik, Haridwar, and Prayagraj. These places are believed to be where the holy drops of immortality nectar (amrit) spilled on Earth.
Q3. When Was The Last Kumbh Mela Held?
The last Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj was in 2013, while Haridwar hosted it in 2010.
