Ahmedabad: The spiritual fervour surrounding the Kumbh Mela is being met with logistical challenges, as soaring air fares and packed accommodations deter many devotees from making the pilgrimage to Prayagraj. While the allure of the holy dip remains strong, logistical hurdles have led to only a fraction of inquiries converting into confirmed bookings with travel company owners. Many are also exploring alternate modes of travel.
Virendra Shah, immediate past chairman of the Travel Agents’ Association of India (TAAI), said, “Three airlines are offering direct flights from Ahmedabad to Prayagraj. However, the air fare is significantly high. The fares for Feb are as high as Rs 35,000. Those for the Republic Day weekend have also soared to Rs 43,000 for direct return flights. As a result, inquiries are not getting confirmed into bookings.”
A number of pilgrims have turned to alternative modes of travel due to higher air fares. “This cost, coupled with the high demand for train tickets and limited availability, has prompted many pilgrims to explore alternative modes of travel, including road trips and chartered buses. Most visitors plan short trips spanning three to five days, often covering other spiritual hubs like Ayodhya and Varanasi alongside Prayagraj,” said Manish Sharma, owner of a travel agency in Ahmedabad.
For instance, Sheetal Vishishth from Ahmedabad is going by train to Ayodhya, then by road to Prayagraj. “My friend arrived from Dubai especially to attend the Kumbh Mela, and we both plan to take a train to Ayodhya from Ahmedabad, visit the Ram Temple there, and then move to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela,” she said.
Unable to bear higher costs, many are also making group bookings. A number of private bus operators have launched packages and are providing buses on hire to families. Ram Kumar Badanghadiya, a businessman from Ahmedabad, has booked a 25-seater bus for his family. “We have planned an 11-day trip and have booked guesthouses along the way. We will be visiting the Mahakaal in Ujjain, go to Ayodhya and then to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela. We will then go to Mathura and onwards to Delhi.”
Accommodation costs add another layer of complexity. Luxury tents at the mela range from Rs 30,000 to Rs 1 lakh, while govt-backed dormitories and budget options are available at Rs 2,000 to Rs 30,000 per night. Despite these options, many visitors opt to make their own arrangements.
The NRI arrivals have also added to the rush for Kumbh Mela this time around. “The influx of non-resident Indians (NRIs) adds a unique dimension to this year’s gathering, with a significant rise in their participation,” said Sharma.