Bolo Har Har Gange…🙏
The Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of spirituality, culture, and history. Held every 12 years, the Kumbh Mela draws millions of devotees, spiritual seekers, and tourists.
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Rooted in Hindu mythology, the Kumbh Mela story revolves around the celestial struggle between gods and demons for the nectar of immortality, spilling a few drops on earth at four holy locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain.
Here are the top 6 things to do in Kumbh Mela:
1. Take a Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam
Taking a holy dip at the sacred Triveni Sangam during the Maha Kumbh is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In addition to the main bathing days, devotees engage in daily rituals that include pujas, havans (fire offerings), and the chanting of hymns along the riverbanks.
These rituals are believed to wash away sins and grant liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The sight of sadhus, saints, and akharas performing their rituals and leading processions is truly mesmerizing. If you wish to participate in this divine activity, be sure to check the Kumbh Mela schedule for the designated bathing days.
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2. Witness the Grand Processions of ‘Akharas’
The high-energy chant echoes through the mela as saints and devotees from various akharas march in grand processions. Elephants, horses, and chariots decorated with vibrant colours lead the way, with sadhus displaying unique ascetic practices.
These processions symbolize the unity and diversity of India’s spiritual traditions. Make sure to capture these mesmerizing scenes as part of your Kumbh Mela experience.
3. Explore the Food Trail of Prayagraj
If you love food, Prayagraj is the perfect destination for you! This holy city offers a variety of delicious dishes that delight both the taste buds and the heart. The Kumbh Mela not only nourishes the soul but also showcases the city’s food paradise. Food enthusiasts can enjoy a wide range of traditional dishes and local delicacies such as Dehati Rasgulla, Kali Gajar ka Halwa, Dahi Jalebi, Kachori Sabzi, and more.
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4. Seek Divine Blessings at the Iconic Temples
The temples of Prayagraj are the pillars of the Kumbh Mela experience, blending spirituality with history. Begin with the Hanuman Mandir, near the Triveni Sangam, featuring a unique reclining idol of Lord Hanuman. Explore the Patalpuri Temple inside the Allahabad Fort, home to the sacred Akshaya Vat Tree. Pay homage at the Lalita Devi Temple, one of the revered Shakti Peethas, and the Mankameshwar Mandir, known for fulfilling devotees’ wishes. Don’t miss the Saraswati Koop, believed to mark the origin of the mythical Saraswati River. These temples, rich in history and Kumbh Mela significance, are essential stops for every visitor, offering both spiritual blessings and cultural insights.
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5. Immerse in the Enchanting Ganga Aarti
As the sun sets, the Triveni Sangam transforms into a celestial stage for the divine Ganga Aarti, a signature experience of the Kumbh Mela festival. Priests, adorned in traditional attire, chant sacred hymns and perform synchronized rituals while holding flaming lamps. Devotees gather along the riverbanks to release floating diyas, creating a mesmerizing play of light on the water.
The aarti is not just a ritual; it’s a spiritual symphony that amplifies the Kumbh Mela significance by invoking divine blessings. Surrounded by the Kumbh Mela places, this moment of collective devotion resonates deeply with all who witness it.
6. Attend the Enlightening Spiritual Discourses
The Kumbh Mela festival is not just about rituals and traditions; it is a profound opportunity to connect with India’s spiritual wisdom. Throughout the event, renowned spiritual leaders and gurus from across the country host discourses and interactive sessions that attract devotees and curious travellers alike. These gatherings delve deeply into a wide range of topics, including the philosophy of Hindu scriptures, ancient practices like yoga and meditation, and the significance of the Kumbh Mela story in mythology and history.
How to Reach Kumbh Mela
1. By Train
Indian Railways operates several trains including some special ones to manage the rush of pilgrims to Prayagraj. Here are the top train routes for easy access:
- Lucknow to Prayagraj trains: With multiple train services covering this route daily, it’s one of the most frequently travelled routes to Prayagraj. The journey is short and economical, making it ideal for pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh.
- Delhi to Prayagraj trains: This route is highly preferred by travellers from northern India. Express and superfast trains like the Prayagraj Express ensure a comfortable overnight journey.
- Varanasi to Prayagraj trains: Connecting two sacred cities, this short route is popular among spiritual seekers looking to visit both Kashi and the Kumbh Mela places.
- Kanpur to Prayagraj trains: This well-connected route offers frequent trains, allowing visitors from Kanpur to reach Prayagraj in just a few hours.
- Mumbai to Prayagraj trains: Pilgrims from western India can opt for long-distance trains like the Mahanagari Express or Prayagraj SF Express, offering overnight journeys with comfortable berths.
- Surat to Prayagraj trains: For travellers from Gujarat, Surat to Prayagraj trains offer a comfortable and accessible way to reach the Kumbh Mela festival.
2. By Air
Prayagraj is served by Prayagraj Airport (IXD), which operates daily flights to and from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Alternatively, visitors can fly to Varanasi Airport (approximately 120 km away) or Lucknow Airport (200 km away) and take a taxi or bus to Prayagraj. You can use ixigo for flight booking and save big.
3. By Bus
Multiple state-run and private buses operate to Prayagraj from nearby cities and states. Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) deploys special Kumbh Mela buses, ensuring seamless connectivity. Key routes include Lucknow-Prayagraj, Kanpur-Prayagraj, Varanasi-Prayagraj and more. ixigo is an ideal platform for bus booking and great deals.
Find Your Perfect Stay in Prayagraj
Prayagraj offers a variety of stay options, from affordable guesthouses to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveller’s needs. Many of these are conveniently located near key Kumbh Mela places like the Triveni Sangam, ensuring you stay close to the heart of the festivities. Ensure to use ixigo for hotel booking, If you are planning to attend the Kumbh Mela festival stress-free.
Kumbh Mela Facts and Significance
- Recognized by UNESCO, it attracts millions of pilgrims, making it the largest peaceful assembly on Earth.
- The Kumbh Mela schedule is based on the celestial alignments of Jupiter, the Sun, and the Moon, which are believed to enhance spiritual benefits.
- The Snan at the Triveni Sangam is said to cleanse sins and grant liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
- The origins of the Kumbh Mela trace back over two millennia, with its first recorded mention found in the writings of the Chinese traveller Xuanzang during the reign of King Harshavardhana.
Aapki Yatra Mangalmay Ho!
