Kumbh Mela

The history of Kumbh Mela dates back to the legend of the creation of the Universe. Mythology states that the Gods and the demons once churned the ocean to retrieve the Kumbh (pot) containing nectar of immortality (Amrit). As Dhanvantri, the divine healer appeared with the Kumbh containing nectar in her palms, a great fight followed between the Gods and the demons to wrist the pitcher. During the fierce battle in the sky, a few drops of nectar fell at four different places, Prayag, Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain. Since then, devotees converge to commemorate this divine event.

The Maha Kumbh is held every twelve years and the Ardh Kumbh is held in the interim six year period. It is said that a holy dip in the river Ganges during the Maha Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh leads to the attainment of Moksha or Nirvana. People gather in huge numbers to take the holy dip during these holy days. There are saints, naga sadhus, politicians, almost every one is there. The city of Haridwar is overflowing with people. Ensure your accommodation well in advance if going during the Kumbh.