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The Kumbh Mela is a celebration of the convergence of the sacred rivers - Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati – at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. Pilgrims believe that taking a dip here during the Mela purifies the soul and grants liberation. The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela is set to take place from January 14 to March 14, 2025, with the most auspicious 'Shahi Snan' dates being spread across the period.
The Kumbh Mela spans over two months, but the most significant bathing days are during the 'Shahi Snan,' when the royal processions of the sadhus and saints take place. These dates are highly auspicious and can be found on the official Kumbh Mela calendar for 2025.
For those planning a spiritual pilgrimage, it’s recommended to time your visit around these days for an unforgettable experience.
The first step in planning your trip from southern India to Prayagraj is to book a flight. Both Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram have well-connected international and domestic airports.
From Chennai (MAA): Book a flight to Allahabad (IXD) or Varanasi (VNS), as Prayagraj's airport might have limited connectivity. Varanasi is just a 3-4 hour drive from Prayagraj, making it a feasible entry point. From Thiruvananthapuram (TRV): Flights to Allahabad or Varanasi are also available from Thiruvananthapuram. However, you may need to take connecting flights via major hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru. Many airlines, such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, operate flights to these cities.
For a more scenic and immersive experience, consider taking a train from Chennai or Thiruvananthapuram to Prayagraj. Train journeys in India can be long, but they offer a chance to witness the country's diverse landscapes.
Chennai to Prayagraj: The train journey can take around 30-36 hours, depending on the route. Trains like Chennai-Allahabad Express (Train No. 12689) and others connect major cities. Thiruvananthapuram to Prayagraj: This route involves a couple of train changes, with a total travel time of approximately 35-40 hours. Booking train tickets in advance is advised, especially during peak pilgrimage season.
If you prefer traveling by road, you can take a long-distance bus or hire a private taxi from Varanasi to Prayagraj. The drive between Varanasi and Prayagraj is around 120 km and can take 3 to 4 hours. During the Mela period, special buses and cabs are available to cater to the large influx of devotees.
During the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj will be equipped with thousands of temporary tents, as well as hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas (religious guesthouses) for pilgrims. It is advisable to book your stay well in advance, especially during the peak bathing days, as demand will be high.
There are different types of accommodations to choose from, including:
Luxury tents and resorts near the river banks. Mid-range and budget hotels in Prayagraj city. Basic tents and dormitories for those on a spiritual budget.
Once you reach Prayagraj, there will be various modes of transportation to take you around the Mela grounds. Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and buses are common options. The Mela area itself will be a bustling hub, so it’s advisable to use a local guide or map to navigate easily.
The Shahi Snan (Royal Bath) is one of the highlights of the Kumbh Mela, where the saints and sadhus of various Akharas bathe in the holy waters of the Triveni Sangam. The procession of the holy men, led by their leaders, is a spectacle of devotion, history, and culture. These sacred bathing rituals are considered to cleanse one's sins and bestow blessings.
(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)
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