The sacred Magh Mela 2026 has officially begun in Prayagraj. This 44-day-long event is one of the most sacred and celebrated events in India. The reason behind it is that it transforms Prayagraj into a breathing confluence of faith, culture, and spirituality. Millions of devotees flock to Praygraj to attend this event, and hence it is also known as the mini-kumbh mela. The mela began on January 3, 2026, and will continue till February 17, 2026. If you are willing to attend this event, here’s a curated Magh Mela Prayagraj 2026 guide just for you!
All About Magh Mela Prayagraj 2026
What Is Magh Mela?
The Magh Mela is a Hindu event that is held at the sacred Triveni Sangam in India’s Prayagraj. Triveni Sangan is the sacred point where the three mythologically important rivers, Ganga, Yamune and Saraswati meet. This annual Hindu fair and pilgrimage is hosted during the Magh month as per the Hindu lunar calendar (January-February). The event is generally 44 to 45 days long and ends near Mahashivratri.
Magh Mela Prayagraj 2026: Rituals, Significance, and Bathing Dates
- Magha Snan (Holy Bath): The main ritual followed during the Magh Mela is taking holy dips in the Triveni Sangam. These dips are more special during the bathing dates and are generally done at sunrise. It is believed that taking a holy dip in this confluence helps to cleanse sins and opens the gates to moksha.
- Following Kalpavas: For 44-45 days (January-February), there are many devotees who follow Kalpavas, and they are known as Kalpvasis. They live in makeshift camps near the river, observe strict discipline, chant, meditate, and eat only once a day.
- Daan: During these 44-45 days, it is said that donating food (Anna Daan) is very auspicious. Along with food, people can also donate sesame seeds (Til Daan) and grains.
- Worship: During this time, devotees worship the Sun God (Surya).
- Spirituality: People engage in spiritual activities like reading scriptures, engaging in prayer, and other religious discourses.
Bathing Dates and Schedule
The Magh Mela lasts for 44 days, with the peak bathing ritual taking place in the Brahma Muhurta. Brahma Muhrat is the auspicious time before sunrise from 4 to 5:30 AM on the following dates for maximum spiritual merit. The people following Kalpavas follow the bathing ritual throughout.
Paush Purnima: January 3, 2026
Makar Sankranti: January 14 or 15, 2026
Mauni Amavasya: January 18, 2026
Basant Panchami: January 23, 2026
Maghi Purnima: February 1, 2026
Mahashivratri: February 15, 2026
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How to reach Prayagraj Sangam for Magh Mela 2026
Air
- Fly to Bamrauli Airport (IXD)
- It is about 12 km from Sangam
- You can take taxis or a pre-booked cab; it will take about 30-45 minutes to the Mela area.
Train
- Arrive at Prayagraj Junction or Prayagraj Rambagh (major hubs)
- You can then take autos, taxis, or shuttle buses to Triveni Sangam.
- It will take about 20-40 minutes.
Road
- There are buses from Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi with a drop at Prayagraj terminals.
- You can take a taxi or an auto to reach the main venue.
Tips For Pilgrims Visiting Magh Mela Prayagraj 2026
- You can visit the information kiosk for lost and found or for medical camps.
- Check Ganga aarti timings and try to reach about 30-60 minutes before time.
- Respect Kalpvasis and sadhus, and make sure you seek permission before taking photos.
- Follow crowd management instructions.
- Wear modest clothes.
- Move in groups during akhara processions.
- Stay hydrated and drink only packaged water.
- Do not roam around in isolated places at night.
- Bathe early on royal snan dates for spiritual merit.
- Pack warm woolens, waterproof shoes, a power bank, a first-aid kit, and ID copies.
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Summing Up
Magh Mela Prayagraj 2026 is an annual fair that is organised in the month of Magh and holds special importance as Prayagraj is one of the four spiritually sacred sites. If you wish to attend the event, make sure you do it ASAP as the event will end soon.
FAQs
What Are Ganga Aarti timings at Prayagraj Sangam?
Morning aarti: 5:45 am
Evening aarti: 5:30 pm
What is the best time for snan at Triveni Sangam?
Early morning on main bathing dates like Mauni Amavasya (Jan 29, 2026) before sunrise.
Which station is nearest to Magh Mela?
Prayagraj Sangam railway station is the nearest to Magh Mela.
How many bathing dates are in Magh Mela 2026?
There are 14 royal bathing dates during January-February Magh Mela.
What is the 40-day ban in Prayagraj?
There is no such ban.
Can I book a boat for Sangam snan online?
No, boats for Sangam snan are booked on-site at ghats; no official online system.
Is Prayagraj Sangam station closed on snan days?
No, Prayagraj Sangam station remains operational on snan days with extra services.
