Maha Kumbh 2025: Flights to Prayagraj still reasonably priced if you book for February — check average rates

The Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, commenced on January 13 and will continue until February 26, where in millions of pilgrims and visitors from across the globe are expected, in case you plan to visit the religious site in Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh airlines are playing an crucial role in making the pilgrimage accessible with Prayagraj now connected to over 20 destinations through direct and one-stop flights.

The surge in flight bookings is evident, with a 162% year-on-year (YoY) increase in flight bookings to Prayagraj, along with 127% and 42% growth in bookings to nearby airports like Varanasi and Lucknow, respectively. As the event approaches, travellers can still find reasonably priced flights to Prayagraj if they book well in advance, though prices are expected to rise closer to key ritual dates.

According to data from Ixigo , AbhiBus & ConfirmTkt between January 13 and February 26, 2025, one-way fares from major metros to Prayagraj and nearby airports are averaging between ₹7,000-10,000 if booked at least 30 days prior of travel date.

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However, certain routes, especially those with limited flight availability, such as Bhopal-Prayagraj, are seeing a significant spike in fares, with prices reaching up to ₹17,000 one-way. Travel before key bathing dates, particularly around January 27, also show sharp increase, with one-way non-stop flights from Mumbai to Prayagraj soaring to ₹27,000.

As the Maha Kumbh draws closer, it’s clear that the demand for air travel to Prayagraj is on the rise, and early bookings will help travellers secure more affordable rates. The data highlights significant fare hikes when compared to the previous year.

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Prayagraj: Average flight bookings have surged by 162% compared to last year, with fares seeing substantial increases across several routes.

Lucknow: Flights to Lucknow have risen by 42%, indicating a steady interest in travel to the region due to its proximity to Prayagraj.

Varanasi: The nearby airport of Varanasi has experienced a 127% increase in bookings, with many travellers opting for this alternate entry point to the Kumbh.

Air Fare Comparison

For those looking to book flights in advance, here are some of the key fare details for one-way flights from major cities to Prayagraj and nearby destinations between January 13 and February 26, 2025:

Bengaluru to Prayagraj: ₹11,158 (an 89% increase from last year)
New Delhi to Prayagraj: ₹5,748 (21% increase)
Mumbai to Prayagraj: ₹6,381 (13% increase)
Ahmedabad to Prayagraj: ₹10,364 (41% increase)
Bhopal to Prayagraj: ₹17,796 (498% increase, reflecting peak demand)

Meanwhile, flights to nearby cities such as Lucknow and Varanasi are also seeing fare increases.

Mumbai to Lucknow: ₹5,235 (12% increase)

New Delhi to Lucknow: ₹3,584 (11% increase)

Ahmedabad to Varanasi: ₹6,908 (13% increase)

New Delhi to Varanasi: ₹6,601 (21% increase)

These price fluctuations are reflective of the growing demand for flights to the region, particularly as travellers seek to attend the spiritual gathering at Prayagraj.

To assist pilgrims and tourists in their travel plans, travel platform ixigo, has launched a dedicated microsite. This platform offers comprehensive information on travel logistics, accommodation options, safety guidelines, rituals, and key activities, making it easier for visitors to plan their journey to one of the world’s largest religious events.

Aloke Bajpai, Group CEO of ixigo said in a press note, “We are witnessing a significant surge in flight bookings to Prayagraj, with a 162% YoY increase. To support this grand spiritual gathering, we have launched a microsite to provide a one-stop resource for Maha Kumbh 2025, helping pilgrims plan their travel with ease.”

With the Maha Kumbh 2025 set to attract millions of visitors to Prayagraj, the availability of flights to the region has seen remarkable improvements. While fares remain reasonable for those booking in advance, travellers are advised to plan ahead, especially for travel before key dates, when fares can soar due to peak demand. The increasing connectivity, coupled with resources like ixigo’s dedicated microsite, ensures that pilgrims and tourists can make the most of their spiritual journey to this iconic event.