25 insider tips for travelers visiting Maha Kumbh Mela

And some info about what not to do while you’re there!

25 insider tips for travelers visiting Maha Kumbh

Mahakumbh The Mela, one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, is more than just an event – it is an experience that leaves a lasting impression on every pilgrim who attends it. This year on the banks of Sangam Prayagraj The place is alive with millions of devotees, sadhus and curious travelers in search of divine connection and cultural immersion.

To help you make the most of your trip, we spoke to actor-vlogger Yayin Shukla, who is currently experiencing the Maha Kumbh first-hand. From practical advice to spiritual insights, he shares 25 tips straight from the heart of the fair to guide your journey. Read till the end to know 14 tips on what not to do if you are a first-time visitor to Kumbh!

Actor and vlogger Yayin Shukla is currently at the Mahakumbh Mela.

Take advantage of Kumbh Assistant Chatbot, a virtual companion for pilgrims: This chatbot has been developed by Prayagraj Fair Authority in collaboration with Uttar Pradesh Development System Corporation (UPDESCO). The chatbot offers a wide range of services, including real-time updates, event schedules, travel guidance, and personal assistance. Built with multilingual capabilities, it caters to the diverse audiences, making it accessible to pilgrims from India and across the world. Its primary goals are to simplify navigation, increase safety, and provide an immersive cultural experience for attendees.
travel light: Only bring as much luggage as you can carry with your feet for the entire time.
Be ready to move: You will have to walk at least 6-8 km carrying your luggage. If you come by train then you will have to walk 10 km.
Plan to travel by train: The nearest station is Prayagraj Sangam, but it will be closed 1-2 days before and after the main Snan due to crowd. After that the nearest stations are Jhusi and Prayag Junction
There is no auto, e-rickshaw or Ola like service here Due to traffic congestion during Kumbh.
If you lose something or get separated, there are 10 different towers. You have to make announcements there. For example, for the main confluence area you have to make an announcement on tower number 1.
Locker and Cupboard Are not available.
Stay hydrated and eat regularly: Carry water, snacks and medicines (if any) with you to avoid dehydration and fatigue.
Use comfortable shoes: Make sure they wear comfortable shoes that provide support, as there will be a lot of walking, and uneven terrain is common.
Keep important documents safe: Keep travel documents and health records in a safe but easily accessible place.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration is a common problem during Prayagraj Mahakumbh, especially for senior citizens. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it from clean, safe sources.
Stay hydrated and eat wisely: Standing and walking for long periods of time can take a toll on your body. Carry a water bottle, stay hydrated and eat light but nutritious food.
Respect customs: Maha Kumbh is a deeply spiritual and religious event, so respect the local customs, rituals and importance of the event. Participate in ceremonies with devotion.
Wear comfortable clothes: Choose loose, comfortable, and weather-appropriate clothing, as you will likely be outside for long periods of time. It is also advisable to wear easily washable clothing as water-based rituals are common
Ensure personal hygiene: With such a large number of people gathering at one place, proper personal hygiene is essential to avoid any health risks. Carry hand sanitizer and wet wipes with you at all times, wash your hands regularly and avoid food from unhygienic sources.
Only tents are available at the rate of Rs 10,000/day without any additional facilities. (1.5 lakh tents are available free of cost but allotted to different Babas in different areas). You can use these websites to book a tent: (Note: I have not personally used these websites).
Many free community kitchens (bhandaras) have been set up with different delicious dishes for all.
Toilet Facilities: There are 2 lakh toilets in the entire city. At the main confluence area, you can go behind the media vehicle parking area to find 50 clean toilets.
The men’s toilets are blue.
Women’s toilets are pink.
If someone is hesitant about taking the dip, take a plastic mug to pour water over their head.
Mobile Network: Use Jio for best signal, as 5G works. Also, make sure to top up the second SIM card.
Danger of stampede: There is always a possibility of a stampede in the crowd, but to be with your family, make sure you carry a hat of the same color, a flag, or something unique that is easily visible from a distance.
Before arriving at the fair, be sure to carry some identifying markers for your group, such as a hat of the same color, a flag, or something easily visible from a distance.
Mobile charging points are not available, Therefore, be sure to bring a power bank. Also, use a trolley bag as you will have to carry all your luggage.

What things should travelers strictly avoid?

If you are a first-time visitor to the Kumbh Mela, Yayin suggests following these tips to ensure your safe and fruitful visit.

If possible, do not come on the day of the Amrit Snan bath, as it will be extremely difficult and stressful. Any route can be diverted to control crowd.
You will find blankets and food supplies for sale, but the prices are double. So bring some warm clothes with you.
Avoid leaving with all your luggage.
Avoid unfamiliar water bodies: Do not swim or bathe in areas that are not designated for religious rituals or where the water quality may not be safe. Bathe only at official bathing ghats where rituals are conducted.
Avoid trusting new people.
Avoid going wearing shoes.
Do not pollute the Sangam with the clothes you are wearing, take them back with you.
Avoid eating outside, especially on the roadside.
Avoid drinking outside or hotel water.
Take some money for the priest and to give alms.
Avoid going with jewelery except minimal jewellery.
Do not go without making your prior return travel arrangements.
Do not eat prasad from anyone’s hand on the way, it can be harmful for you.
If someone tells you that they will drop you at the confluence area and you don’t have to walk, they are lying or trying to scam you. Even after entering the fair, you will have to walk 5-6 km.