Gangasagar Mela

Located where the Holy Ganges meets the Bay of Bengal, this massive pilgrimage on Sagar Island is a significant journey of faith, famously described by the saying: "Sab Teerth Baar Baar, Gangasagar Ek Baar."

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Quick Info for Visitors

What You Need to Know	Official 2026 Information
Dates	January 10 to January 17, 2026
Location	Sagar Island, West Bengal (South 24 Parganas)
Entry Fee	Free (Insurance included for all pilgrims)
Nearest Station	Sealdah Station (Kolkata) to Kakdwip Station

Important Dates and Rituals

• Makar Sankranti (Main Bath): January 14–15 (Concluded)
• Evening Aarti: Held daily at 7:00 PM at the Kapil Muni Temple.
• Mela Conclusion: January 17 (Tomorrow is the final day to visit).
• Temple Timings: Open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

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2026 Highlights

• Enhanced Safety: The Mela is monitored by thermal-imaging and high-speed underwater rescue drones (ITUS) capable of towing 1,000 kg for rapid emergency response.
• Large Scale Transit: More than 2,000 buses and 100 vessels are operating to transport the record-breaking 1.5 crore pilgrims visiting this year.
• Smart Tracking: Under the "Parichay" initiative, the administration is using QR-coded waterproof wristbands for children and the elderly to assist in family reunification.
• Tax Exemption: No entry tax is being charged by the state government, and every pilgrim is covered by a Rs 5 lakh accidental insurance policy.
• Digital Services: For those unable to travel, the E-Snan service offers doorstep delivery of Holy Sagar Water and Prasad.

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Useful Tips for Your Visit

• Transport Route: Travel by train from Sealdah to Kakdwip, take a ferry from Lot 8 to Kachuberia, and then take a local bus or shared taxi to the Mela ground.
• Weather Preparation: Night temperatures on the island can drop to 11–12 degrees Celsius. It is highly recommended to carry heavy woolens.
• Medical Facilities: Over 300 medical camps, a dedicated air ambulance, and water ambulances are on standby for emergencies.
• Crowd Management: As the peak bathing dates have passed, return ferry queues at Kachuberia remain very long. Traveling in the early morning hours is advised to avoid delays.