The Nashik Kumbh Mela — known locally as the Simhastha Kumbh — returns in 2027 for the first time in twelve years. It happens when Jupiter enters the zodiac sign of Leo (Simha), an alignment considered especially auspicious for bathing in the Godavari River at Ramkund and in the Kushavarta Kund at Trimbakeshwar.
When Does the Mela Begin and End?
The full Simhastha period is unusually long — most sources place the official start at the Dhwajarohan (flag-hoisting) ceremony on 31 October 2026 at Ramkund, with the observances continuing for close to 21 months before concluding around July 2028. Within that long window, the vast majority of pilgrim traffic concentrates into a much shorter stretch between July and September 2027, when the three main Shahi Snan days fall.
The Three Shahi Snan Dates
Shahi Snan, or "royal bath," is the ritual heart of the Kumbh — the days when the Akhadas (organised orders of sadhus) process to the ghats first, followed by the general public. Based on the astrological calendar published so far:
First Shahi Snan — 2 August 2027 (Shravan Shuddha)
Main Shahi Snan — 31 August 2027 (Shravan Amavasya), regarded as the most spiritually significant of the three
Final Shahi Snan — 11–12 September 2027 (Bhadrapada Shukla Ekadashi)
These are provisional dates drawn from the traditional tithi-based calendar. The Akhada Parishad and the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela Committee will issue the final confirmation closer to the event — always check the official portal before finalising travel.
Beyond the Shahi Snan Days
If crowd size is a concern, note that the Shahi Snan days draw by far the largest numbers — some projections put single-day attendance in the crores. The Mela period also includes a number of smaller Parva Snan (auspicious bathing) dates throughout July, August and September 2027, which carry religious significance without anywhere near the same crowd density. Whichever dates you choose, a little preparation goes a long way — see our pilgrim safety tips before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main Shahi Snan date for Nashik Kumbh Mela 2027?
The Main Shahi Snan falls on 31 August 2027 (Shravan Amavasya) — widely regarded as the most spiritually significant of the three bathing dates, and typically the most crowded.
How many Shahi Snan days are there in the 2027 Nashik Kumbh?
Three: 2 August, 31 August, and 11–12 September 2027.
When does the Nashik Kumbh Mela 2027 officially start?
The Simhastha period formally opens with the Dhwajarohan (flag-hoisting) ceremony at Ramkund on 31 October 2026, though the vast majority of pilgrim traffic arrives during the Shahi Snan window in mid-2027.