How to Reach Kumbh Mela Prayagraj from Delhi: Train, Road, Air

The Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, draws millions of pilgrims, travelers, and seekers from across the globe. The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj (Allahabad) will be an unparalleled experience, offering a rare opportunity to witness age-old rituals, spiritual discourses, and holy dips in the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.

If you’re traveling from Delhi to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela, proper planning is key to ensuring a smooth journey, given the massive crowds that the event attracts. This guide will help you choose the best travel option—by train, road, or air—with detailed tips to make your journey comfortable and memorable Of Uttar Pradesh.

In This Blog

1. Why Travel to the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj?

Every day, millions of devotees flock to the Maha Kumbh Mela to take a holy dip as an act of faith and devotion. The Maha Kumbh holds immense importance in Hinduism, symbolizing the deep-rooted traditions of Sanatan Dharma. While the Purna Kumbh Mela is celebrated every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh Mela takes place after 12 Purna Kumbhs, which means once every 144 years. This year, the Maha Kumbh is being held after over a century, making it a rare and spiritually significant event.

The Maha Kumbh also includes special ceremonial royal baths (Shahi Snan) on specific auspicious dates. In the 2025 Maha Kumbh, there are a total of six royal baths, of which two have already been completed. Here are the details of the remaining royal bath dates and the event’s conclusion:

Royal Bath Dates of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025:

Event	Bathing Date
Paush Poornima (Opening Day)	January 13, 2025
Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan)	January 14, 2025
Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan)	January 29, 2025
Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan)	February 3, 2025
Achla Saptami (Important Bathing)	February 4, 2025
Maghi Poornima (Important Bathing)	February 12, 2025
Maha Shivratri (Final Important Bathing)	February 26, 2025

When Will the Maha Kumbh Mela end?

The Maha Kumbh Mela will conclude on Maha Shivratri, February 26, 2025, which also marks the final royal bath of the event. This day is considered highly sacred in Hinduism, and pilgrims from across the world will participate in the concluding rituals and celebrations.

Where Will the Kumbh Mela Be Held After 2025?

Following the Maha Kumbh of 2025 in Prayagraj, the next major Kumbh Mela, known as the Simhastha Mahakumbh, will be organized in Ujjain in the year 2028.

This information ensures that devotees and travelers can plan their spiritual journeys effectively, experiencing the essence of this ancient tradition.

2. Delhi to Prayagraj by Train

To accommodate the influx of pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, taking place from January 13 to February 26, Indian Railways has introduced extensive train services between Delhi and Prayagraj. Here are the key details of train operations on this route:

Special Train Services

Total Trains: 32 pairs of special trains and 21 pairs of unreserved trains are scheduled.
Major Trains:
- Prayagraj Express (12418): Departs New Delhi at 10:10 PM, arriving at Prayagraj Junction at 6:50 AM.
- Vande Bharat Express (22436): Leaves Delhi at 6:00 AM, reaching Prayagraj at 12:08 PM.
- North East Express (12506): Departs Anand Vihar Terminal at 7:40 AM, arriving at Prayagraj Junction at 4:05 PM.

Regular Train Services

Daily Trains: Approximately 26 daily trains operate between New Delhi and Prayagraj.
Weekly Trains: A total of 129 weekly trains are available on this route.
Fastest Train: The Vande Bharat Express is the quickest option, covering the distance in 6 hours and 8 minutes.

Key Train Schedules

First Train: The RGD Festival Special departs New Delhi at 12:20 AM.
Last Train: The PNBE Summer Special leaves Anand Vihar Terminus at 11:55 PM.

Additional Measures

Indian Railways has invested heavily in enhancing infrastructure and safety, installing CCTV cameras and improving sanitation at stations. More than 13,000 trains, including special services from major cities, will operate during the event to facilitate travel for pilgrims.

How to Reach the Maha Kumbh Sangam from the Train Station

After arriving in Prayagraj by train, you can easily reach the Maha Kumbh, which is approximately 11 kilometers from Prayagraj Junction. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and e-rickshaws are readily available for transportation. Prayagraj has nine railway stations, each at varying distances from the Kumbh:

Prayagraj Junction: 11 kilometers
Phaphamau Junction: 18 kilometers
Prayagraj Sangam: 2.5 kilometers
Prayag Junction: 9.5 kilometers
Jhusi: 3.5 kilometers
Prayagraj Chheoki: 10 kilometers
Naini: 8 kilometers
Prayagraj Rambagh: 9 kilometers
Subedarganj: 14 kilometers

Transportation Options

From every station, you’ll find auto-rickshaws, taxis, and even affordable e-rickshaws, especially for stations closer to the Sangam.

Walking Distance at the Mela

Be prepared to walk at the Maha Kumbh Mela, as access routes vary depending on the day:

Normal Days: Parking or auto drop points will require walking 4–5 kilometers.
Royal Bath Days: Expect to walk up to 10 kilometers due to special arrangements for pilgrims.
If traveling by private vehicle, parking areas are located 4–15 kilometers from the main site, so plan accordingly.

This information ensures your visit to the Maha Kumbh is seamless and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the spiritual significance of this grand event.

How to Book Train Tickets

Book tickets in advance via IRCTC or authorized travel agents.

Consider Tatkal tickets for last-minute travel, but be aware that availability may be limited during peak times.

Opt for sleeper or AC classes for a more comfortable journey, especially during overnight travel.

3. By Road: Flexible Travel from Delhi to Prayagraj

Traveling by road offers flexibility and convenience, especially if you’re traveling with family or in a group. The Yamuna Expressway and NH19 ensure a smooth and scenic journey from Delhi to Prayagraj.

Travel Options by Road

1. By Private Car

Distance: Approx. 700 km
Travel Time: 10–12 hours (depending on traffic and breaks)
Best For: Families or groups seeking a private, comfortable journey.

Route Highlights:

Delhi → Agra via Yamuna Expressway (approx. 3 hours)
Agra → Prayagraj via NH19 (approx. 7 hours)

2. By Bus

Types of Buses:

Government-Operated Buses: UP State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) runs special buses to Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela.

Private Buses: AC and sleeper coaches are available from Delhi to Prayagraj.

Boarding Points in Delhi: ISBT Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar Terminal.

Travel Time: 10–14 hours, depending on the type of bus.

Cost: Budget-friendly, with ticket prices ranging from ₹500–₹2,000.

Tips for Road Travel Kumbh Mela Prayagraj

If traveling by private car, plan your pit stops at reliable eateries along the highway.

Carry GPS or offline maps for smooth navigation, as detours are common during the Kumbh Mela.

For bus travel, book your tickets early through portals like RedBus, UPSRTC, or private operators to avoid last-minute hassles.

4. By Air: The Quickest Way to Reach Prayagraj

Flying is the fastest and most convenient option, especially for those with limited time or wanting to avoid long train or bus journeys. Prayagraj’s Bamrauli Airport (now known as Prayagraj Airport) connects to major Indian cities, including Delhi.

Flights from Delhi to Prayagraj

Direct Flights:

Multiple airlines, including IndiGo and Alliance Air, operate daily direct flights from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to Prayagraj.

Flight Duration: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes.

Connecting Flights: If direct flights are unavailable, you can opt for connecting flights via Lucknow or Varanasi.

Cost of Air Travel

Ticket prices typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000, depending on how early you book. Prices may increase closer to the Kumbh Mela dates, so book in advance.

Getting from Prayagraj Airport to the Kumbh Mela Grounds

Distance: The Kumbh Mela grounds (near Triveni Sangam) are about 15 km from the Prayagraj Airport.

Transport Options:

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available.

Shared autos and buses also run frequently during the Mela.

5. Travel Tips for Visiting the Kumbh Mela Prayagraj in 2025

Plan Ahead: Book your train, bus, or flight tickets months in advance, as transportation options sell out quickly during the Kumbh Mela.

Stay Updated: Keep an eye on Indian Railways and UPSRTC announcements for special services and travel advisories.

Pack Smart: Carry essentials like reusable water bottles, power banks, comfortable walking shoes, and warm clothing for February weather.

Arrive Early: Arrive at the Kumbh Mela grounds early in the morning to avoid large crowds.

Stay Safe: Stick to your group, follow police and volunteer instructions, and avoid carrying valuables.

6. FAQs About Reaching the Kumbh Mela from Delhi

1. What is the cheapest way to travel from Delhi to Prayagraj?

The cheapest option is traveling by train, with sleeper class tickets starting at approximately ₹400–₹800.

2. How long does it take to reach Prayagraj by road?

A road trip from Delhi to Prayagraj typically takes 10–12 hours, depending on traffic and the route.

3. Is air travel the fastest way to reach Prayagraj?

Yes, flying is the fastest option, with direct flights from Delhi taking only 1 hour 30 minutes.

4. Are there direct buses from Delhi to Prayagraj?

Yes, government and private operators run direct buses from Delhi’s major terminals like ISBT Kashmere Gate and Anand Vihar to Prayagraj.

5. Are special trains available for the Kumbh Mela?

Indian Railways introduces special trains during the Kumbh Mela to manage the high influx of pilgrims. Stay updated on announcements via the IRCTC website or mobile app.

Get accurate distance information:

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela offers multiple options, from the affordability of trains to the speed of flights and the flexibility of road travel. By planning your journey in advance, booking tickets early, and keeping travel tips in mind, you’ll ensure a smooth and enriching experience at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.

Whether you’re traveling for spiritual purposes or simply to witness this grand cultural event, the journey to Prayagraj will be just as memorable as the event itself.

Let me know if you’d like further assistance with customizing your travel plans or additional details on Kumbh Mela!

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