Ardha Kumbha and Maha Kumbha are the occasions when millions of people gather to take holy dip in the sacred waters. This is main reason for one to attend the Maha Kumbha and the Ardha Kumbha festival. It is believed that a holy dip in sacred rivers during Maha Kumbh or Ardh kumbh takes human out of the circle of life and death and one attains Moksha. Devotees, saints/sadhus turn up in great number from all over the world to take a dip in the holy waters of rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna and the mythological Saraswati at Parayag (Sangam). According to traditions these holy rivers offers purity, wealth, fertility and wash away the sins of all those who take bath.

Bathing Dates for Allahabad Ardha Kumbh 2007

January 3rd 2007- Paush Purnima (Full Moon)

Last full moon of winter in the Hindu month of Paush.

January 14th 2007- Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is the first day of the big bathing days.

January 19th 2007- Mouni Amavasya

Mauni Amavasya is the "New Moon of the Saints." It is the main bathing day for holy men where they participate in naked processions. On this day new members to various holy orders receive their first initiation.

January 23rd 2007- Vasant Panchami

It is the fifth day of the bright half of the lunar month and the beginning of spring season in North India. People pray for bumper harvest on this auspicious day.

February 2nd 2007- Magh Purnima

It is the full moon day in the month of Magha (January - February). It is the third day of the main bathing days.

February 15th - 16th 2007 - Mahashivratri

It is the day when Hindu devotees all over India worship Shiva, one of the trinity of Gods. It is the fourth day of the main bathing days