How to Reach Kumbh Mela by Train, Air, and Road

Introduction

Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. It takes place at four holy places in India, and the 2025 event will be held in Prayagraj. Millions of people come here to take a holy dip at the Sangam, the meeting point of three sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.

Planning your visit starts with one big question: how to reach Kumbh Mela without stress or confusion? Whether you’re coming from a nearby city or far across the country, it helps to know the best way to travel. The journey is just as important as the destination, especially when you’re traveling with family or in a group.

In this article, you’ll learn the best ways to reach Kumbh Mela by train, air, and road. Each option has its benefits, and we’ll guide you through what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make your trip smooth and safe.

Travel By Road

Traveling to Kumbh Mela by road is a good option if you’re coming from nearby cities. Prayagraj is well connected by national highways. You can drive your own vehicle or take a state-run or private bus. Buses are available from cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, Kanpur, and Patna. The roads are usually in good condition, but traffic can get heavy during peak days of the Mela.

If you are driving, make sure to check parking areas in advance. The city has special zones for vehicles during Kumbh Mela. From there, local transport like autos and e-rickshaws take you closer to the Mela site. It’s better to start early in the day to avoid traffic jams. Carry water, snacks, and keep some cash, as digital payments may not work in all areas. Road travel gives you flexibility and a chance to see rural parts of India along the way.

Travel By Air

Traveling by air is the fastest way to reach Kumbh Mela, especially if you’re coming from far away cities. Prayagraj Airport (IXD) has regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other big cities. During the Mela season, more flights are added to handle the rush of visitors. The airport is small but well-managed. After landing, you can easily take a cab or auto to the Kumbh Mela area. It takes around 30 to 40 minutes to reach the Sangam from the airport.

If you don’t find a direct flight to Prayagraj, you can choose nearby airports like:

• Varanasi Airport (VNS)  around 120 km away
  
• Lucknow Airport (LKO)  around 200 km away
  

Trains and buses connect these cities with Prayagraj. Air travel saves time and makes the journey more comfortable, especially for elderly people or those with limited time. The earlier you book, the better the price and the more likely your seat will be confirmed.

Nearby Hotels

Finding a place to stay near Kumbh Mela is very important. There are many hotels in and around Prayagraj that offer rooms during the Mela season. You can choose from budget hotels, mid-range options, or luxury stays, depending on your budget. Some hotels are located close to the Sangam, while others are in the city center. Most hotels offer basic facilities like clean rooms, hot water, meals, and Wi-Fi. During the Mela, rooms get booked quickly, so it is better to reserve early.

Some hotels also arrange pickup services from the airport or railway station. If you are looking for comfort, hotels are a good choice compared to tents. Many of them are also close to transport points like bus stands and railway stations, making it easy to travel. Below is a table of some popular hotel categories near the Kumbh Mela area:

Hotel Name	Category	Distance from Sangam	Facilities	Booking Needed
Hotel Polo Max	Budget	5 km	AC rooms, Wi-Fi, restaurant	Yes
Hotel Kanha Shyam	Mid-range	4 km	AC, buffet, parking	Yes
Hotel Yatrik	Mid-range	3.5 km	Free Wi-Fi, in-house dining	Yes
Hotel Prayag Inn	Budget	6 km	Room service, near station	Yes
Kumbh Camp India	Tent/Luxury	1 to 2 km	Meals, guided tours, spiritual camps	Yes
Hotel Legend	Mid-range	5 km	Clean rooms, 24/7 help desk	Yes
Hotel Milan Palace	Mid-range	4 km	Restaurant, AC rooms, parking	Yes
Hotel Allahabad Regency	Luxury	4.5 km	Business class stay, large suites	Yes
Kumbh Village Tents	Tent/Budget	2 km	Meals, shared toilets, group stay	Yes
Hotel Ranjan	Budget	6.5 km	Affordable stay, local food nearby	Yes

Most hotels require online booking before arrival, especially during peak bathing days.It is always a good idea to check reviews and the exact location before booking.

Travel By Train

Traveling to Kumbh Mela by train is one of the easiest and most popular options. Prayagraj Junction is the main railway station in the city. It connects to almost all major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore.Indian Railways runs special trains during the Kumbh Mela to manage the large number of visitors.Booking your train tickets early is a smart move, as seats fill up fast.

Once you arrive at the station, you can take autos, rickshaws, or buses to reach the Mela site. The distance from the railway station to the Sangam area is just a few kilometers. The city also has other nearby stations like Chheoki, Subedarganj, and Naini. Trains are comfortable for both short and long journeys. They are also a budget-friendly way to travel with family or friends.

Place visitable near kumbh mela

There are many beautiful and spiritual places to visit near Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. After attending the Mela, you can explore these nearby spots to make your trip more memorable. Some of these places are religious, while others show the rich history and culture of the city. Most of them are easy to reach by auto, rickshaw, or taxi from the Mela area.

Here are some must-visit places near Kumbh Mela:

• Triveni Sangam   the sacred meeting point of three rivers
  
• Allahabad Fort   built by Emperor Akbar, near the Sangam
  
• Anand Bhavan   home of the Nehru family, now a museum
  
• Khusro Bagh   a peaceful garden with Mughal tombs
  
• Hanuman Mandir   famous for its giant lying Hanuman idol
  
• Alopi Devi Temple   a unique temple with strong local belief
  

These places offer a mix of devotion, history, and calmness. Visiting them gives you a deeper connection to the culture of Prayagraj.

Tour Package

Many travel companies offer Kumbh Mela tour packages for a smooth and easy trip. These packages include travel, stay, food, and local transport. Some also provide guided tours to help you understand the spiritual importance of the Mela. You can choose a package based on your budget and number of days you want to stay. Packages are available for individuals, families, and even large groups.

Some packages offer luxury tents, while others provide basic camps or hotels. During the busy days of the Mela, a tour package saves time and removes stress. Most companies offer packages starting from 2 to 5 days. Booking in advance is better because prices go up as the event gets closer. A good package also takes care of bathing schedules, meals, and safety arrangements, making your experience peaceful and well-organized.

Conclution

Visiting Kumbh Mela is a special and spiritual journey. It brings people from all over the world together for prayer, peace, and blessings. To enjoy this experience fully, it’s important to plan your trip in advance. Whether you go by train, air, or road, knowing your options helps you reach safely and comfortably.

The city of Prayagraj becomes alive during the Mela. From holy dips at the Sangam to exploring nearby places, every moment feels meaningful. With the right travel plan, stay, and a little care, your visit to Kumbh Mela can become a memory for life.

FAQs

1. What is the easiest way to reach Kumbh Mela?
The easiest way is by train, as Prayagraj is well connected to most major cities in India.

2. Can I travel to Kumbh Mela by flight?
Yes, you can fly to Prayagraj Airport or nearby airports like Varanasi or Lucknow.

3. Are there buses available to reach Kumbh Mela?
Yes, state and private buses run from nearby cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, and Kanpur.

4. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, it is best to book your train, flight, and hotel early to avoid rush and high prices.

5. Is local transport available in Prayagraj?
Yes, you can find autos, rickshaws, buses, and even walking paths to reach the Mela ground.