Mahakumbh 2025: Travel essentials to safety tips, here’s all you need to know

Mahakumbh 2025 the largest religious gathering in the world is currently underway in Prayagraj The grand event which began on January 13 will go on till February 26While every Kumbh Mela draws a large number of devotees the spiritual significance of this yearrsquos event is immense as it marks a oncein144 years occurrence due to a rare celestial alignmentDevotees and tourists not only from India but around the world are visiting Prayagraj to experience the spiritual festivalAccording to data shared by Bookingcom there has been a 35fold increase in searches for Prayagraj during the months of January and FebruarySantosh Kumar Country Manager for India Sri Lanka Maldives and Indonesia at Bookingcom further informs ldquoMahakumbhrsquos impact extends beyond Prayagraj Varanasi is also witnessing a surge in travel interest with a 70 per cent yearonyear increase in searches Other neighbouring cities like Vrindavan and Lucknow are experiencing similar trends highlighting the travellers desire to immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere surrounding the eventrdquoOver 15 crore devotees have already taken a holy dip at Triveni Sangam the confluence of Ganga Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers so far Around 4045 crore visitors are expected throughout the course of the gatheringA surge in visitors is further expected onJanuary 29 which marks an auspicious occasion ndash Mauni Amavasya or Maghi Amavasya The second AmritSnanofMahakumbh2025 will be observed on this day with thethirdAmritSnantaking place onFebruary 3Basant PanchamiFebruary 12Maghi Purnima andFebruary 26Mahashivratri are other important bathing daysIf you are planning to experienceMahakumbh2025 it is important to plan ahead and know certain guidelinesTravel and accommodationWhile extensive arrangements have been made to facilitate convenient stay fordevotees and tourists one must plan their travel in advance and book accommodations accordinglyGiresh Kulkarni Founder Temple Connect and International Temples Convention and EXPO suggests ldquoFrom luxury tents to dharamshalas book your accommodation in advance Flights and trains to Prayagraj see a 300400 per cent surge in demand during this time so lock in your travel earlyrdquoldquoIt is important to book your travel and stay through authentic platforms or websites like IRCTC There are many fraudulent websites advertising cheap stay options leading to fake bookings and disappointment for travellersrdquo he further informsAdditionally since Prayagraj is witnessing a huge influx of visitors during this time one should be prepared for traffic congestions and other transportation challengesJatinder Paul SinghCofounder and CEOViacation says ldquoDuringMahakumbh Prayagraj can face traffic congestion and that is whytravellersshould plan their visit with potential delays in mind One should opt for public transportation or shared rides to reduce the burden on local infrastructurerdquoPacking essentialsOne should pack clothes keeping weather and comfort in mind and also carry other essential itemsSome recommendations by Kulkarni includeWarm clothing itrsquos JanuaryFebruaryComfortable walking shoesReusable water bottleCompact firstaid kitPower banks for your gadgetsSealable plastic bags to protect essentials from dust and splashesHe further advises to skipbringingvaluablesandprioritising comfortldquoForget style this is about survival and comfort Wear breathable loose clothes and sturdy footwear for hours of walking Carry a lightweight shawl or blanket for sudden temperature dropsrdquo suggests KulkarniCultural sensitivity and sanctityMahakumbhis a spiritual festival and a sacred ritual for many Hence maintainingitssanctityisimportant by respecting religious sentiments and practices say expertsOne must alsobe sensitive towards theirsurroundingsldquoWith millions attendingMahakumbh2025 waste managementcan becomea challenge Do your part by disposing of waste responsiblyrdquo advises SinghHygiene and safetyMahakumbhis one of the largest human gatherings in the world In such crowded places maintaining hygiene can become a challengeSingh states ldquoCrowded places can pose health risks so it is advisable to carry essential medications stay hydrated and be mindful of food and water hygienerdquoKulkarni further recommends ldquoDrink only filtered watermdashhydration is key but safety is crucial Carry handsanitisers wet wipes and masksOptfor freshly cooked food from reputable stalls and avoid raw or unhygienic optionsrdquoIn addition to hygiene safety should also be a priority Kulkarni has the following tips to ensure you are safe and connected with your family and friendsStick to designated areasAvoid overcrowded spaces especially during the Amrit Snans Agree on a meeting point with your group beforehandmdashmobile networks can go haywire with millions trying to connectKeep your belongings close and carry a waist pouch or small backpack for easy accessIt is also essential to keep emergency contacts handy in case you might need themKulkarni shares the following essential contact numbers everyone should haveMahakumbh helpline 1920Local police112Ambulance helpline 108 102Medical aid centres Available onsiteYour accommodationrsquos contact numberldquoAlways carry a copy of your ID and keep a physical list of numbers in case your phone diesrdquo he concludesAlso ReadTourist helpline to social media buzz know all about the measures to promote global tourism at Mahakumbh 2025