By Richa Shandilya
The Kumbh Mela is more than just the world’s largest gathering of people – it’s a powerful testament to faith and spirituality. One of my first trips in 2025 was to the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, a trip I almost missed. This wasn’t my first experience with the Kumbh Mela. I had previously visited the ‘Ardh Kumbh’ in Prayagraj in 2019, just before the pandemic, as part of the ‘Know India Program’. That trip, being a government program, came with all the VIP treatment. I stayed in the tent city and was able to move around with exceptional access. It felt like serendipity that I was visiting the Kumbh Mela yet again. I had read and been told that this particular Mahakumbh was rare, occurring after 12 years with a special planetary alignment on 29th January, 2024 which was coming only after 144 years. So, I decided to visit Prayagraj and witness the Mahakumbhb during the most auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya. This time, I wanted to experience it on my own terms, without any special assistance. My primary goal was to meet Naga Sadhus and representatives from different Akharas, and to participate in the ‘Shahi Snan’ (Royal Bath). I asked two close friends to join me on this journey.
I began my journey from Delhi early on the 27th January, driving to Prayagraj and arriving by evening. It already felt like destiny was guiding us. I had done a lot of research, read articles and watching videos to help me navigate the experience. However, I quickly learned that no matter how much you prepare for a spiritual journey like this, you can never fully plan what’s in store for you. After a drive of about 12 hours, we reached Prayagraj by around 7 PM. After settling in our hotel, which I had got thanks to a local operator I knew from before, we visited the Triveni Ghat, a five-kilometer walk from our lodging. The roads had been closed two days prior in anticipation of the ‘Shahi Snan’ the following day.
The next morning, we set out again, this time planning to visit all the Akharas on the other side of the Triveni Ghat. Fortuitously, we met two bikers who became our guides for the day, taking us wherever we wanted to go. Our first stop was the Kinnar Akhara in Sector 16, where we witnessed the Kali Puja. We realied that the whole of Kumbh city was divided in Sectors, almost in a linear fashion. We then visited other Akharas, speaking with numerous Sadhus along the way. Our goal was to understand their lifestyle and practices. Our final destination was the Juna Akhara, where we spent the evening with many Sadhus, observing their preparations for the Shahi Snan. We also saw many young people who were there to be initiated as Sadhus after the Shahi Snan the following morning. Throughout the day, events seemed to align perfectly, guiding us toward our ultimate goal – witnessing the Shahi Snan and taking a holy dip at the auspicious moment.
But as they say, India is not for the faint-hearted! This entire journey involved a grueling 20 kilometers of walking each day, something none of us were accustomed to. The next morning, after witnessing the Shahi Snan and absorbing the incredible energy of the Kumbh Mela, we took our holy dip and began our journey back home. The return trip presented its own challenges. We struggled to find suitable transportation, which meant even more walking. We then unfortunately got stuck within the Mela grounds due to a lockdown of entry and exit points caused by severe overcrowding.
My biggest takeaway from this journey was that nothing can truly prepare you for something that is destined to happen. It also made me reflect on whether all the effort was worth it. The answer in my heart is a resounding yes. The energy I felt during this trip, and the people I met, made the entire journey worthwhile. The chaos was absolutely worth it for the experience of a truly authentic Kumbh Mela. And I learned that this kind of experience can only be achieved with positive energy and a determined spirit to find what you are searching for.
If you’re a single female planning a trip to the Kumbh Mela, be prepared for a lot of walking and large crowds. However, most importantly, go with a strong sense of purpose and a clear understanding of what you hope to gain from your visit to this Mahakumbh.
Planning a trip to the Kumbh Mela, especially if you’re going solo or on a budget, requires careful consideration. Here are a few tips:
Logistics & Accommodation:
Book in advance (if possible): Accommodation near the Mela grounds fills up quickly, especially during auspicious dates. If you’re looking for a specific type of lodging (tents, hotels, etc.), booking well in advance is highly recommended. However, many people embrace the experience by staying in simple camps or with local families.
Consider location: Think about how close you want to be to the main bathing ghats and the Akharas. Staying closer might be more convenient but also more crowded and expensive. Staying slightly further away might offer a quieter experience but require more travel time.
Transportation: Plan your travel to and from Prayagraj well in advance, especially if traveling during peak periods. The crowds can make transportation challenging. Consider train reservations or other modes of transport well ahead of time. Within the Mela area, be prepared for a lot of walking. Local transport might be available but can be unreliable due to congestion.
Pack light but appropriately: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so pack light, comfortable clothing and shoes. Dress modestly out of respect for the cultural and religious significance of the event. Carry essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, hat, and a small first-aid kit. Layers are a good idea as temperatures can fluctuate.
Experiencing the Mela:
Research key dates: The most auspicious bathing days (Shahi Snan) are the most crowded. If you want to experience the peak of the Mela, plan your trip around these dates. If you prefer a slightly less crowded experience, consider visiting at other times.
Be prepared for crowds: The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest gatherings of people in the world. Be prepared for large crowds, especially during peak days. Be patient, respectful, and aware of your surroundings.
Embrace the experience: The Kumbh Mela is a unique and spiritual experience. Be open to the culture, the rituals, and the people you meet. Participate respectfully in the events and soak in the atmosphere.
Respect local customs: Dress modestly, be mindful of photography (ask permission before taking photos of individuals), and be respectful of religious practices.
Stay hydrated and healthy: Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, especially in the heat. Be mindful of food safety and hygiene.
Security: Be aware of your belongings and take necessary precautions against pickpockets and other petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
Plan your travel well in advance: Book train tickets, flights, or accommodation well ahead of time, especially if traveling during peak days.
For Solo Female Travelers:
Connect with other travelers: Consider joining online groups or forums to connect with other travelers who are also planning to attend the Kumbh Mela. This can be a good way to share information, coordinate travel plans, and meet up at the Mela.
Be aware of your surroundings: Be extra cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas.
Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
Getting to Prayagraj (or the Kumbh Mela site):
By Air: The nearest airport is Bamrauli Airport in Prayagraj. However, it has limited connectivity. Major airports like Delhi and Varanasi are better options, from where you can take a train or taxi to Prayagraj.
Tip: Book flights well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season, as prices can surge.
By Train: Prayagraj Junction is a major railway hub with good connectivity to most Indian cities. Several trains operate to Prayagraj, and special trains are often added during the Kumbh Mela.
Tip: Train reservations open a few months in advance, and it’s crucial to book your tickets as soon as possible, especially for popular trains and travel dates. Consider booking return tickets as well.
By Road: Prayagraj is well-connected by road to major cities. You can take state transport buses or private buses, or hire a taxi. The journey can be time-consuming due to traffic, especially closer to the Mela site. If driving, be prepared for traffic congestion and limited parking near the Mela grounds. It’s advisable to park your vehicle further away and use public transport or walk to the Mela area.
Within the Kumbh Mela Area:
Walking: The most common and often the most practical way to get around within the Mela area is on foot. Be prepared for a lot of walking, as the Mela grounds are vast.
Local Transport: During the Kumbh Mela, local transport options like buses and auto-rickshaws might be available. However, they can be unreliable due to traffic and overcrowding. You can also consider local bikers who are not the official authority transport, but an easier way of moving around inside the Mela. If you opt for local transport, be prepared for long waits and crowded vehicles. Negotiate fares beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
Shuttle Services: Some organizations and tent cities might offer shuttle services within the Mela area. Check with your accommodation provider or local authorities for availability.
Bicycle Rickshaws: In some areas, you might find bicycle rickshaws. They can be a good option for shorter distances, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
Important Considerations:
Crowd Management: During peak days, the Kumbh Mela can get extremely crowded. Be prepared for delays and plan your travel accordingly. Follow the instructions of the authorities and volunteers to ensure your safety.
Road Closures: Certain roads might be closed to vehicles during the Mela, especially on auspicious bathing days. Be aware of these restrictions and plan your travel routes accordingly.
Parking: Parking can be a major challenge near the Mela grounds. It’s advisable to park your vehicle further away and use public transport or walk to the Mela area.
Travel Time: Be realistic about travel times, especially during the Kumbh Mela. Allow ample time for your journey, as delays are common due to traffic and crowds.
Information: Stay updated on traffic conditions, road closures, and transportation arrangements through local news and announcements.
By planning your transportation carefully and being prepared for the challenges, you can make your journey to and within the Kumbh Mela a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
P.S. Richa works as a travel curator with Trans India Holidays.
