Maha Kumbh Mela start date
When the most recent — and one of the largest — human gatherings in history actually began, and what officially marked its opening.
Short answer
The 2025 Prayagraj Maha Kumbh started on 13 January 2025, the day of Paush Purnima, with its first Amrit Snan following the very next day on Makar Sankranti.
Opening day
13 January 2025 — Paush Purnima, the first designated Snan and the date most official sources cite as the festival's start.
First Amrit Snan
14 January 2025 — Makar Sankranti, one day after the opening, and the first of the event's most significant royal-bathing days.
Next Maha Kumbh start
Around 2169. Too far out for an exact date — that will be calculated much closer to the year using the Panchang.
Why 13 January
The calculation behind the opening date
Paush Purnima marks the full moon of the Hindu month of Paush, a date long treated as spiritually significant for beginning an extended pilgrimage period at the Sangam.
It precedes the first major Amrit Snan
Starting on Purnima gives pilgrims a day of preparation before the first designated royal-bathing day at Makar Sankranti.
It also marks the start of Kalpavas
Many devoted pilgrims begin their month-long Kalpavas vow — austere riverside living — on this exact date, continuing through Maghi Purnima.
It's consistent with how Prayagraj cycles generally open
Prayagraj's Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh editions have historically opened on or near Paush Purnima, making this a recognisable pattern rather than a one-off choice for 2025.
The opening week
13–14 January 2025
13 Jan — Paush Purnima, festival opens, Kalpavas begins
14 Jan — Makar Sankranti, First Amrit Snan
Related reading
See the full closing calendar on Maha Kumbh End Date, the complete bathing schedule on Maha Kumbh Mela Dates, or read the full explainer on what makes a Kumbh "Maha".