As the Mahakumbh 2025 approaches, travelers planning to attend the grand religious festival are experiencing a sharp rise in airfares to Prayagraj. With millions expected to flock to the city to participate in the event, airlines have increased ticket prices significantly, especially on key routes like Bengaluru to Prayagraj, where airfares have surged by up to 41%.
The Mahakumbh, one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world, draws massive crowds every 12 years, resulting in a significant uptick in tourism-related activities. The surge in airfare prices is a direct result of the rising demand for flights to Prayagraj, a crucial hub for devotees. As the event’s dates approach, booking windows have seen a spike in reservations, driving up ticket costs considerably.
Reports indicate that the cost of flights from major cities like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Bhopal to Prayagraj has risen multifold. A recent survey highlighted that flights from Delhi to Prayagraj have jumped by 21%, while those from Bengaluru have become 41% more expensive compared to normal rates. The price hikes reflect the high demand for transportation services during the period leading up to the Mahakumbh, which is set to start in January and culminate in February 2025.
Despite the surge in airfares, travel experts suggest that prices could be somewhat reasonable if tickets are booked well in advance. For travelers looking to attend the event in February 2025, securing tickets in the coming weeks might offer more affordable rates than waiting until the last minute. However, those booking now are still likely to see significant premiums on their tickets compared to regular prices.
According to industry insiders, Prayagraj’s accessibility via air has always been limited, with fewer flight options available compared to major metropolitan cities. This limitation, coupled with the overwhelming demand generated by the Mahakumbh, has led to the rapid increase in airfares. Moreover, the festival’s spiritual significance and the cultural events tied to it contribute to a surge in both domestic and international travel.
To cope with the high demand, airlines have been expanding their services on routes to Prayagraj, adding extra flights and increasing the frequency of scheduled services. While this helps cater to the growing number of passengers, it has not been enough to prevent price hikes. In addition, hotel accommodations in Prayagraj are also seeing a surge in demand, with many travelers choosing to book their stays well ahead of time to avoid higher prices closer to the event.
For some, the soaring prices may be a deterrent, but for others, the Mahakumbh remains an unmissable event that offers a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience. The economic impact of the event is expected to be far-reaching, with industries related to tourism, hospitality, and transport set to benefit from the influx of visitors.
In conclusion, while Mahakumbh 2025 is set to provide an unparalleled cultural and spiritual experience, travelers should brace for higher costs associated with flights and accommodations. Early bookings and flexible travel dates could help mitigate some of the price surges during this peak period.
BY – NIKITA
