The tourism department in Uttar Pradesh is taking proactive measures to ensure a smooth and informative experience for millions of visitors during the Mahakumbh in January 2025.

Preparing for the World's Largest Religious Gathering

With an estimated attendance of over 41 crore devotees and tourists, the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is expected to be a grand spectacle. To cater to the needs of this massive influx, the state tourism department is setting up 10 temporary tourism information centres around the city, particularly at key locations such as railway stations, bus terminals, and other major transportation hubs.

These centres aim to offer comprehensive assistance and enhance the visitor experience by providing essential information about tourist attractions, accommodations, and the overall Kumbh Mela arrangements.

Location of Tourism Information Centres

According to Aparajita Singh, Regional Tourism Officer for Prayagraj, these centres will be positioned at all major railway and bus stations in the city. In addition to these locations, temporary bus terminals set up for the Mahakumbh will also house information centres. The tourism directorate has already initiated the process of issuing an e-tender to select an agency responsible for establishing and managing these centres.

“We are committed to ensuring a seamless experience for the devotees and tourists arriving for the Mahakumbh,” said Singh. “These centres will play a key role in providing necessary information to make their visit hassle-free.”

The main goal behind setting up these centres is to ensure that visitors can quickly access relevant information, not only about the Kumbh Mela but also about the major tourist attractions in and around Prayagraj.

Services Offered at the Tourism Information Centres

The tourism information centres will offer a variety of services, including:

1. Information Booklets: Comprehensive booklets in both Hindi and English will be available, detailing major tourist attractions in Prayagraj, such as the historic Triveni Sangam, Anand Bhawan, Allahabad Fort, and the Ashoka Pillar.

2. Digital Resources: In line with the government’s push towards digitalisation, all resources will also be available in digital format, making it easier for tech-savvy visitors to access information via their smartphones.

3. Guidebooks and Trained Guides: A guidebook will be provided to assist tourists with inquiries related to the Kumbh Mela, along with a list of trained guides who will be stationed at the centres to provide on-ground assistance.

4. Accommodation Assistance: A crucial service will be providing information on registered paying guest houses, hotels, tent cities, and colonies. This will help visitors find suitable accommodations during their stay in Prayagraj.

Special Focus on Tent Cities and Thematic Gates

The Mahakumbh 2025 will see the construction of 30 thematic gates around the Kumbh Mela grounds, each showcasing a specific theme relevant to the spiritual and cultural significance of the event. To ensure that tourists can easily navigate through these gates and understand the historical and religious contexts, information centres will also be located near each gate.

These gates are being built to offer an immersive experience and will reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India. The tourism department is ensuring that these gates become key touchpoints for information dissemination.

“Each gate will have an employee responsible for maintaining the area and providing tourists with detailed information about the Kumbh Mela and Prayagraj’s tourist spots,” Singh added.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience with Technology

The tourism department is also focusing on incorporating technology to enhance the experience for tourists. Digital kiosks will be installed at various locations, allowing tourists to quickly search for information, book accommodations, and even locate nearby restaurants and amenities. Additionally, QR codes will be placed at various points of interest, which tourists can scan to receive detailed information on their phones.

“This digital initiative is aimed at providing real-time updates and helping tourists navigate through the massive Kumbh Mela grounds effortlessly,” said a tourism department official.

Historical Significance of the Mahakumbh

The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is considered one of the largest peaceful gatherings in the world and is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition. The Mahakumbh, which occurs every 144 years, is the grandest of these events, attracting millions of pilgrims who come to take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.

The tradition of the Kumbh Mela dates back over two millennia, with the first documented evidence of the event found in the writings of the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, who visited India in the 7th century CE. Over the years, the Kumbh has evolved into a unique blend of spirituality, cultural exchange, and a showcase of India’s ancient traditions.

The Mahakumbh is not just a religious festival; it is also an opportunity for India to display its rich cultural heritage to the world. The government’s efforts to enhance tourism during this period reflect the significance of the event on both a national and international level.

Why Prayagraj?

Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, holds immense historical and religious significance. It is one of the four sites where the Kumbh Mela is held, with the others being Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj is considered the holiest of all confluences, as it is believed to be the meeting point of the three sacred rivers.

The city itself is steeped in history, having been a key political and cultural hub during India’s struggle for independence. Landmarks like the Anand Bhawan, the former residence of the Nehru family, and the Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar, are just a few of the city’s many attractions that draw tourists year-round.

Tourism Boost and Economic Impact

The Mahakumbh is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Hotels, guest houses, and tent cities are expected to see full occupancy during the event, with the tourism department working closely with local businesses to ensure adequate accommodation and services for the influx of visitors.

The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated a substantial budget for infrastructure development in Prayagraj, including the improvement of roads, sanitation facilities, and public transportation. These initiatives aim to not only support the Mahakumbh but also improve the city’s overall tourism appeal in the long term.

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The Mahakumbh 2025 promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for millions of devotees and tourists alike. With the establishment of 10 tourism information centres, the Uttar Pradesh government is ensuring that every visitor has access to vital information, making their pilgrimage and travel experience smooth and memorable.

By combining technology with tradition, the tourism department is setting a new benchmark for organising large-scale religious events. Visitors can look forward to a well-organised, spiritually enriching journey during the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, all while discovering the city’s rich history and culture.