Learn about the four major sites of the Kumbh Mela, the largest religious festival in India, and how often it occurs at each location. The Kumbh Mela rotates between Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain every 12 years, and also takes place every six years at Haridwar and Prayagraj as the Ardh Kumbh Mela. At the core of the Kumbh Mela is a 12-year cycle, determined by the movement of Jupiter through the zodiac. Jupiter takes approximately 12 years to complete one orbit around the Sun, and its position around the Earth and other celestial bodies dictates the timing of the Kumbh Mela. Maha Kumbh 2025 vs. Kumbh Mela: Frequency and timing Mahakumbh Mela: This event occurs once every 12 years and is considered the most sacred of all Kumbh Melas, with the upcoming Mahakumbh Mela scheduled to take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025. Types of Kumbh Mela in India India celebrates various types of Kumbh Mela at four sacred locations— Nasik, Ujjain, Prayagraj, and Haridwar—based on specific celestial alignments. These festivals vary in frequency and significance, offering devotees opportunities for spiritual growth and purification. 1. Magh Mela (Every Year) Held annually at Prayagraj, this mela is observed during the Hindu month of Magh (January-February). Though smaller in scale, it holds immense spiritual ...
