The Kumbh Mela Authority has listed items that are not allowed in the Mela area and at the ghats. Here is a short summary, with the full list on our Prohibited Items page.
Prohibited in the Mela Area and at the Ghats
- Weapons and dangerous items: firearms, knives and swords, iron rods and lathis, toy guns, explosives and firecrackers.
- Fire hazards: petrol, kerosene, gas cylinders and stoves in crowd areas, open fires and sky lanterns.
- Intoxicants: alcohol, drugs, and tobacco, gutka and cigarettes at the ghats and temples.
- Plastic and thermocol: plastic bags, thermocol plates and cups, plastic cutlery and straws, small plastic water pouches and bottles.
- River pollution: soap, shampoo and detergent in the river, plastic-wrapped offerings, old clothes and garbage.
- Equipment: drones, loudspeakers and laser pointers without permission.
- Crowd hazards: glass bottles, large suitcases and trolley bags, tents or bedding on roads and steps, and pets.
Not Advised
- Jewellery and valuables
- Large amounts of cash
- Umbrellas in dense crowds, a raincoat is better
- Heavy bags
- Selfie sticks and tripods at the ghats
- Footwear that slips on wet surfaces
What to Expect
Security checks will be held at entry points and prohibited items may be seized, so leave them at home or at your stay. Rules can change, so follow the police and volunteers. For the full detail, see our Prohibited Items List, and plan your bag with the packing list.