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Maha Kumbh Mela will be held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025.
Hanuman Temple in Prayagraj. The temple is decorated during the Kumbh Mela which makes it a must-visit shrine for the devotees. (Image: Shutterstock)
The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world, takes place every 12 years. It draws millions of devotees to take the holy dip that is believed to wash away sins. This sacred event is linked to Hindu mythology where it is said that drops of ‘amrit’ (nectar of immortality) fell at four different locations during the cosmic churning of the ocean (Sagar Manthan) between the gods and demons. These places – Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik – are where the Kumbh Mela is held in rotation.
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The next Maha Kumbh Mela will be held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025. In addition to the spiritual importance of the mela, these cities are home to some of the most well-known temples and shrines. Take a look.
Prayagraj
Hanuman Temple
The Hanuman Temple in Prayagraj, located close to the Sangam, is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. One of the temple’s unique features is its reclining Hanuman statue which gets submerged during the rise of river waters. This creates a powerful visual especially during the changing water levels.
The temple is decorated during the Kumbh Mela which makes it a must-visit shrine for the devotees to seek Lord Hanuman’s blessings.
Patalpuri Temple
The Patalpuri Temple, located beneath the Allahabad Fort, is one of Prayagraj’s most unique and mystical sites. The peaceful atmosphere with devotees praying seeking blessings in the low light creates a serene and spiritual scene which makes it a memorable place to visit.
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Akshayavat
Akshayavat, the sacred banyan tree believed to symbolise eternal life, stands within the Patalpuri Temple at Allahabad Fort. While the fort is generally off-limits, during the Kumbh Mela, devotees are allowed to visit which gives them a rare chance to witness this ancient tree. It is considered highly spiritual as it believed that the tree has witnessed the cycles of creation, preservation and destruction.
Ujjain
Mahakaleshwar Temple
The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is one of India’s twelve sacred Jyotirlingas and a revered site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its unique south-facing idol of Mahakaleshwar, the temple attracts countless devotees, especially during the Bhasma-Aarti ritual, a sacred ritual involving the offering of sacred ash.
Kal Bhairav Temple
Located near the Shipra River in Ujjain, this temple is dedicated to Kal Bhairav, one of Lord Shiva’s eight attendants. This temple holds great importance and is believed to have been built during the reign of King Bhadrasen. Devotees offer flowers, coconuts, incense and even liquor here, making it a significant spiritual site.
Harsiddhi Temple
The Harsiddhi Temple is a revered site with deep historical and spiritual significance. It features a vermilion-adorned idol of Goddess Annapurna situated between the idols of Mahalaxmi and Mahasaraswati. Within the temple premises, you will also find the Sri Yantra, a symbol of power, enshrined.
According to legend, when Lord Shiva carried away the burning body of Sati from the sacrificial fire, her elbow fell at this spot. Reconstructed during the Maratha era, the temple is known for its two lamp-lit pillars which makes it a serene site for devotees to visit.
Haridwar
Mansa Devi Temple
The Mansa Devi Temple is located atop Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar. It is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi which is believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes. Visitors tie threads on a temple tree as part of a popular ritual and return to untie them once their wishes are granted. It is accessible by trek or the Mansa Devi ropeway and is one of Haridwar’s three Siddh Peeths.
Chandi Devi Temple
The Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar is dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati. Located 4 km from Har Ki Pauri, it is accessible by trekking or the Chandi Devi ropeway. Devotees visit during Kumbh Mela, Navratri and Chandi Chaudas, and aim to attend the morning aarti at 5:30 AM.
Mahamrityunjaya Temple
The Mahamrityunjaya Temple is famous for the continuous chanting of the Maha Mrityunjay Mantra, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This powerful mantra is believed to guide devotees on a spiritual journey towards self-realisation. Many visit the temple to experience the calming vibrations of the chant which is considered to bring peace and positivity to those who hear it.
Nashik
Trimbakeshwar Temple
Trimbakeshwar Temple in Nashik is one of the twelve sacred jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is a unique lingam that represents the holy trinity – Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. Situated near the Godavari River, it holds great spiritual importance. The temple is a key site for performing the “Narayan Nagbali,” an ancient ritual to appease Lord Shiva.
Sita Gufa
Sita Gufa (Sita Cave) in Panchavati, Nashik, is a revered site linked to Sita Mata’s abduction by Ravana during Lord Rama’s exile. This small cave temple features idols of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana in three chambers. Open to visitors from morning to evening, devotees pay their respects to the deities here.
Sundarnarayan Temple
Sundarnarayan Temple, near Ahilyabai Holkar Bridge, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Sundarnarayan form. Known for its intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere, the temple is a serene spot for meditation. It is believed to be built during 1756 and holds deep spiritual significance. Devotees come here to seek blessings for happiness and prosperity from Lord Vishnu.
- Location :
Prayagraj, India
