Magh Mela 2026: The Magh Mela is held every year during the month of Magh at the Triveni Sangam (confluence of three rivers). It is considered a smaller version of the Kumbh Mela. This year too, the Magh Mela is being organized in January-February at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This fair is considered a sacred occasion for penance, charity, and spiritual purification. It is believed that bathing in the Sangam during the Magh Mela grants liberation from sins and leads to salvation. The greatest feature of the Magh Mela is the Kalpavas, where thousands of devotees reside on the banks of the Sangam for a month, observing self-discipline, bathing, giving alms, and performing spiritual practices. The Magh Mela is associated with the legend of the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). Let's find out when the Magh Mela is being held in 2026, why it is organized, its significance, and where to go for the royal baths.

When is the Magh Mela in 2026?

Every year, the Magh Mela begins on Paush Purnima and continues until Mahashivratri. This year, the Magh Mela begins on January 3, 2026, and will continue until Mahashivratri on February 15.  During this period, royal baths will be held on important days such as Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya. The royal baths are the main bathing festivals during the Magh Mela and are extremely important. These include:

Paush Purnima Bath - January 3, 2026
Makar Sankranti Bath - January 14, 2026
Mauni Amavasya Bath - January 18, 2026
Basant Panchami Bath - January 23, 2026
Magh Purnima Bath - February 1, 2026
Concluding Mahashivratri Bath - February 15, 2026

Features of the Magh Mela

Camps of various Akharas (religious orders) are set up. During this time, sadhus and saints from all over India come here, and this place becomes their place of penance. Discourses, religious stories, and yajnas (fire rituals) are organized during the Magh Mela. Visitors can experience local cuisine and rural culture. This is ideal for travelers who want to experience spiritual India away from the crowds.

Where to bathe in Prayagraj

For the most sacred and auspicious bath during the Magh Mela, take a dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. Arail Ghat and Daraganj Ghat are also popular bathing spots.

Important advice for travelers

The Magh Mela is organized on the lines of a mini Kumbh Mela. If you are planning to visit the Magh Mela in 2026, keep the following points in mind:
Be fully prepared for the cold weather.
Stay in government-provided tent cities or guesthouses.
Be mentally prepared for extra crowds during the major bathing festivals.

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