Short answer: The akhadas are the traditional orders of sadhus who lead the Kumbh Mela. The Kumbh tradition recognises thirteen akhadas, grouped mainly as Shaiva, Vaishnava and Udasin. At the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha, the Vaishnava akhadas take their Amrit Snan at Ramkund in Nashik and the Shaiva akhadas at Kushavarta Kund in Trimbakeshwar. Visitors should be respectful, ask before taking photos, and give way during processions.
What Is an Akhada?
An akhada is a monastic order of sadhus with its own traditions, leaders and camps. At the Kumbh, the akhadas arrive in grand processions and take the first sacred baths, called Amrit Snan (also known as Shahi Snan). Read the full meaning in our Amrit Snan guide, and see the list on our Akhadas page.
Where Do They Bathe?
- Vaishnava akhadas: Ramkund, Panchavati, Nashik. See our Ramkund guide.
- Shaiva akhadas: Kushavarta Kund, Trimbakeshwar. See our Trimbakeshwar guide.
The Camp and the Processions
The akhadas stay in a large camp area called Sadhugram. According to the Kumbh schedule, the akhada camps open with the Sadhugram Dhwajarohan on 24 July 2027, and the Nagar Pradakshina procession follows on 29 July 2027. The first Amrit Snan is on 2 August 2027. The Kumbh itself begins earlier, with the flag hoisting on 31 October 2026. See the Dhwajarohan guide and the full calendar.
Visitor Etiquette
- Do not touch sadhus or their belongings, and ask before you take a photograph. Many will say no, and that is their right.
- Give way during processions, and follow the instructions of the police and volunteers.
- Dress modestly, and keep your voice low in the camp area.
- Do not follow anyone who asks for money or promises blessings, and be careful with strangers who approach you.
- On the main days, 2 August, 31 August, 11 September and 12 September 2027, access to the ghats may be restricted early. See the schedule and the updates page.