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With deep links to Hindu mythology, the Maha Kumbh Mela presents a significant occasion for participants to seek forgiveness for their sins and aspire for Moksha, or spiritual liberation.

This particular celebration occurs at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, where the sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati meet.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Travel Guide: Top 10 must-known facts and tips for visitors and devotees

As the Maha Kumbh 2025 draws near, here are ten essential points to keep in mind for anyone planning to attend this remarkable event in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India.

1. The largest religious gathering:

The Maha Kumbh Mela is recognized as the world’s biggest religious gathering, with pilgrims from India and outside traveling to Prayagraj to take a holy dip in the sacred convergence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.

2. Significance behind the festival:

The Kumbh Mela dates back thousands of years to ancient Hindu texts. It is deeply rooted in the mythical account of the Samudra Manthan (ocean churning), during which drips of the nectar of immortality fell in four locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain.

Discover: Maha Kumbh 2025: The 9 biggest secrets of Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.

3. Date and budget of Maha Kumbh 2025

Scheduled to begin on January 14, 2025, the Maha Kumbh 2025, spread across 4,000 hectares along the river bank, is expected to have a footfall of at least 40 crore people, with an estimated budget of nearly Rs 6,382 crore, as told by officials. responsible for the event, to Indian Express.

4. Auspicious bathing days:

There are six auspicious bathing days during the Maha Kumbh, which include three major royal baths (Shahi Snan) and three additional bathing days:

• January 13, 2025: Paush Purnima,
• 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, and
• February 26, 2025: Maha Shivratri (Final Snan).

5. Difference between Maha Kumbh Mela and Kumbh Mela

Many people often mix up the Mahakumbh Mela with the Kumbh Mela, but the main difference between the two is their locations. Kumbh Mela occurs every three years, while the Maha Kumbh Mela takes place once every 12 years and is only celebrated in Prayagraj.

Know: How is Maha Kumbh different from Kumbh; Four types of Kumbh Mela

6. Know about the last Maha Kumbh Mela:

Held every 12 years, the last Maha Kumbh was in 2013 when the Samajwadi Party government was in power, under a budget of Rs 1,152 crore and witnessed about 12 crore visitors.

7. Enhanced security:

Notably, about 2,300 CCTV cameras will be installed across the Maha Kumbh site and Prayagraj to assist with crowd management, population density analysis, incident reporting, and cleanliness monitoring via control centers. Authorities also intend to build 99 temporary parking lots spanning 1,850 hectares and 1.45 lakh toilets in the Mela region.

8. Tip for a smooth travel experience

To ensure a smooth experience and avoid last-minute hassles, devotees and visitors should plan ahead. One must book accommodations early, travel at the start of the day, and pack essential items.

9. Leave behind valuables to stay safe

It’s advisable to leave behind valuables, excess food, and unnecessary clothing to minimize risk. Visitors should also avoid provoking disputes and refrain from entering the river beyond designated areas for their safety.

10. Hygiene practices

Furthermore, participants should help protect the environment by refraining from using soaps or detergents in the water and avoiding pollution with Pujan Samagri. For personal health and hygiene, they should steer clear of crowded places if feeling unwell, avoid using plastic bags in the city and festival areas, and never defecate in public spaces.