Simhastha Kumbh Mela — known simply as "Simhastha" — is the Kumbh Mela held at the holy city of Ujjain on the banks of the sacred Kshipra (Shipra) River in Madhya Pradesh.

This Kumbh is unique because it takes place once every 12 years — specifically when the planet Jupiter (Brihaspati) enters the zodiac sign of Leo (Simha Rashi) and the Sun moves into Aries (Mesh Rashi). This rare astronomical alignment transforms Ujjain into the spiritual capital of the universe.

Ujjain is one of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) of Hinduism — home to the revered Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the 12 holiest Shiva shrines in India. During Simhastha, millions of devotees, saints, Naga Sadhus, and seekers descend upon Ujjain for the sacred Amrit Snan (holy dip).

The last Simhastha was held in 2016. The next divine gathering, Simhastha 2028, is expected to draw over 5 crore (50 million) pilgrims from across the globe.

Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Indore — the nearest airport (55 km from Ujjain). International flights connect via Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. Pre-paid taxi or retreat shuttle to Ujjain in ~1 hour.

Ujjain Junction (UJN) is a major railway station with direct trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Indore, and Bhopal. Special Kumbh trains will run from all major cities during Simhastha 2028.

Ujjain is well-connected via NH 52. From Indore: 55 km (1 hr). From Bhopal: 184 km (3 hrs). From Ahmedabad: 402 km (6 hrs). From Delhi: 771 km (12 hrs). MP Tourism and private buses ply regularly.

Ujjain is located at 23.18°N, 75.77°E in Malwa Plateau, Madhya Pradesh. The Kshipra (Shipra) River flows through the city. Elevation: ~489 m above sea level.

The holiest bathing ghat of Simhastha — the main Amrit Snan site on the Kshipra. Sacred Peshwai processions of Naga Sadhus begin here. Evening aarti is a mesmerizing spectacle. Walking distance from Retreat.

Sacred confluence of the Kshipra, Naya Saraswati, and Khan rivers. Taking a dip here during Simhastha is believed to cleanse all sins. Special importance on full moon nights.

One of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of India — the only Dakshinamurti (south-facing) Lingam. Famous for the daily Bhasma Aarti at 4 AM where Lord Shiva is worshipped with sacred ash. A must-visit.

One of the 51 Shakti Peethas — Goddess Harsiddhi protects the city of Ujjain. The two famous illuminated deepstambhas (lamp towers) create a magical glow during Navratri and Simhastha.

The fierce guardian deity of Ujjain. This temple is unique — devotees offer prasad of liquor to Lord Kal Bhairav. The idol is said to miraculously consume the offering. A powerful and mystical darshan experience.

The legendary gurukul where Lord Krishna, Balrama, and Sudama received their education from Guru Sandipani. A deeply moving site that connects pilgrims to the story of divine friendship and learning.

The birthplace of planet Mars (Mangal). Ancient texts declare Ujjain as the janmasthan of Mars. Prayers here are especially potent for those with Mangal dosha. Beautiful hilltop location with panoramic city views.

The ancient astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1719. Ujjain sits on the prime meridian of ancient India (0° longitude). The observatory was used to calculate time and planetary movements.

The magnificent Maratha-era temple dedicated to Lord Krishna built by Queen Bayajabai Shinde in the 19th century. Located in the heart of Ujjain's market area. Beautiful marble architecture and ornate silver doors.

One of the four self-manifested (swayambhu) Ganesh idols in India. This ancient temple on the banks of Kshipra is especially auspicious for new beginnings and removal of obstacles. A must-visit before other Simhastha pilgrimages.

Dedicated to the nine planetary deities. Ujjain being the ancient astronomical capital of India, this temple holds special cosmic significance during Simhastha when planetary alignments are at their most auspicious.

The meditation caves where King Bhartrihari, brother of Vikramaditya, renounced his kingdom for spiritual pursuit. These ancient caves are home to Nath yogis. During Simhastha, the Naga Sadhus camp and perform rituals here.

The only south-facing Jyotirlinga in India. The Bhasma Aarti at dawn — where the deity is worshipped with sacred ash — is one of the most powerful spiritual experiences in the world. Bookings for Bhasma Aarti must be made in advance during Simhastha.

The main bathing ghat of Ujjain, where the sacred Kshipra River flows. The evening Kshipra Aarti (Ganga Aarti style) is a soul-stirring experience of light, sound, and devotion. During Simhastha, hundreds of Naga Sadhus perform their Shahi Snan here.

A museum dedicated to the legendary King Vikramaditya who ruled Ujjain. Houses ancient coins, sculptures, manuscripts, and astronomical instruments. Showcases Ujjain's glory as the cultural and scientific capital of ancient India.

Ancient temple of Goddess Gadkalika, the tutelary deity of the poet Kalidasa. Legend says Kalidasa was blessed by the Goddess here and gained divine wisdom. Situated on the banks of the Kshipra near the Navgrah Mandir.

Dedicated to the legacy of Kalidasa — India's greatest Sanskrit poet who was one of the Navaratnas at Vikramaditya's court. Hosts classical music, dance, and drama performances throughout the Simhastha season.

The beautiful ISKCON temple dedicated to Radha Madanmohan. Located on the banks of the Kshipra, this temple offers serene evening aarti, sumptuous prasad, and a peaceful spiritual atmosphere away from the Simhastha crowds.

Air-conditioned luxury tents and cottages with attached bathrooms, premium bedding, and 24-hour service. Positioned closest to Ram Ghat for immediate access to Shahi Snan.

Our retreat provides dedicated shuttle service to all major temples and ghats during Shahi Snan days. Special early-morning transport for Mahakaleshwar Bhasma Aarti darshan at 4 AM.

All packages include three freshly prepared sattvic meals daily — pure vegetarian food following Ayurvedic principles to keep your body and mind pure throughout the sacred Simhastha pilgrimage.

Daily sunrise yoga, meditation sessions on the Kshipra banks, and Ayurvedic treatments to rejuvenate you between darshans and Snan dates. Our Kaya Kalp Kutir wellness team will be fully operational.

Dedicated Pandits and Tirth Guides accompany every tour to all major Ujjain temples — ensuring you receive proper darshan protocol, mantra chanting guidance, and deeper spiritual understanding at each sacred site.

24/7 security personnel, CCTV surveillance, medical staff on duty, and emergency response team. Our campus maintains strict sattvic discipline with no alcohol policy for a truly sacred environment.

Temp: 28–42°C. Hot days, warm nights. Light cottons recommended. Mornings on Kshipra are pleasant for snan.

Temp: 30–44°C. Peak festival month. Main Shahi Snan (Vaishakh Purnima). Carry sunscreen & hydrate well.

Temp: 28–38°C. Pre-monsoon showers begin mid-June. Final Snan (Mithuna Sankranti) on ~15 June. Light rain gear advised.

Book stays 1 day before each Shahi Snan date to participate in pre-dawn processions. Our retreat provides 4 AM wake-up calls and hot beverages on Snan mornings.