Short answer: Amrit Snan, earlier called Shahi Snan, is the ceremonial bath taken by the saints and sadhus of the akhadas, in grand procession, on the main bathing days of the Kumbh Mela. At the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh, the Amrit Snan days are 2 August, 31 August, 11 September and 12 September 2027.
What Does Amrit Snan Mean?
"Amrit" means the divine nectar of immortality that, according to tradition, fell at four holy places during the Samudra Manthan. "Snan" means a holy bath. An Amrit Snan is therefore a bath in the sacred river on a day believed to carry the blessing of that nectar. Read the full story in our About Kumbh page.
Amrit Snan and Shahi Snan: The Same Bath
Both names describe the same ceremony. "Shahi" means royal, and refers to the splendid processions of the akhadas. Official announcements for this Kumbh now use the name Amrit Snan, while many people still say Shahi Snan, so you will see both in news and online.
Who Takes the Amrit Snan?
The akhadas, the traditional orders of sadhus, lead the Amrit Snan. They walk in procession to the ghat and bathe on the fixed days. Devotees also bathe on these days, following the instructions of the authorities and volunteers. Learn more on our akhadas page.
Where Does It Happen at Nashik Kumbh?
- Nashik: at Ramkund on the Godavari, where the Vaishnava akhadas take their Amrit Snan.
- Trimbakeshwar: at Kushavarta Kund, where the Shaiva akhadas bathe. See our Trimbakeshwar guide.
Amrit Snan Dates at Nashik-Trimbakeshwar
- 2 August 2027 (Monday): first Amrit Snan
- 31 August 2027 (Tuesday): second Amrit Snan, the Maha Kumbh Snan and main day
- 11 September 2027 (Saturday): third Amrit Snan at Nashik (Ramkund)
- 12 September 2027 (Sunday): third Amrit Snan at Trimbakeshwar (Kushavarta Kund)
The full calendar, including the special bathing days, is in our Kumbh dates article and on the schedule page.
Tips for Visiting on an Amrit Snan Day
- Plan to reach the ghat very early and expect crowds and road closures.
- Follow the instructions of local police and volunteers at all times.
- Keep children and elderly family members close, and carry only what you need.
- Check our updates page and official notices before you travel.