Nashik Kumbh Mela 2026 to Begin on October 31, Will Span 18 Months: Key Dates, Events Announced
Nashik Kumbh Mela 2026 to Begin on October 31, Will Span 18 Months: Key Dates, Events Announced
Pune, June 1, 2025: The highly awaited Singhastha Kumbh Mela 2026 in Trimbakeshwar, Nashik, is set to commence with the flag hoisting ceremony (Dhvajarohan) on October 31, 2026, and will continue until July 24, 2028. Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, during a key planning meeting held in Nashik, confirmed the final schedule for the holy Kumbh pilgrimage, which is expected to draw millions of devotees from across the country and abroad.
For the first time, the event will be celebrated for 18 months, and will include three main “Amrit Snan” (royal bathing) events and 42 parva snan (ritual baths). The decision was made following a high-level meeting attended by 13 Akhadas, saints, top state officials, and ministers Girish Mahajan and Dada Bhuse.
Key Highlights of Nashik Kumbh Mela 2026
- Opening Ceremony (Dhvajarohan): October 31, 2026
- Closing Ceremony (Flag Immersion): July 24, 2028
- Main Events Venue: Trimbakeshwar and Ramkund, Nashik
Important Dates – Amrit Snan (Royal Bathing)
The major bathing dates, earlier called Shahi Snan, will now be referred to as Amrit Snan, as proposed by Mahant Rajendra Das Maharaj to reflect a more culturally rooted terminology.
In Nashik:
- 1st Amrit Snan: August 2, 2027
- 2nd Amrit Snan: August 31, 2027
- 3rd Amrit Snan: September 11, 2027
In Trimbakeshwar:
- 1st Amrit Snan: August 2, 2027
- 2nd Amrit Snan: August 31, 2027
- 3rd Amrit Snan: September 12, 2027
Other Key Dates:
- Nagar Pradakshina (Holy Procession): July 29, 2027
- Sadhugram Flag Hoisting: July 24, 2027
- Closing Flag Ceremony: July 24, 2028
New Terminology: Shahi Snan to Amrit Snan
In a symbolic move to break away from Mughal-era nomenclature, religious leaders have agreed to rename Shahi Snan as Amrit Snan. The change reflects a desire to restore indigenous cultural values and spiritual identity. Saints from 10 Shaiva Akhadas and 3 Vaishnav Akhadas endorsed the move.
Focus on River Cleanliness and Infrastructure
In the meeting, concerns were raised about Godavari River pollution. Religious heads urged the state to take concrete steps to ensure cleanliness. There were also appeals for the declaration of a Kumbh Mela Authority to streamline planning and resource allocation.
CM Fadnavis assured that the government is fully committed to making the 2026 Nashik Kumbh Mela a safe, clean, and spiritually enriching experience. He also announced advanced infrastructure, crowd management, and safety protocols for devotees visiting Trimbakeshwar and Nashik.
