Sangam Snan is a sacred ritual performed at the holy Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, where millions of devotees take a ritual bath to attain spiritual purification, divine blessings, and liberation.
Sangam Snan refers to the holy bathing ritual performed at the Triveni Sangam — the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati — located in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
According to Hindu belief, taking a dip at the Sangam during auspicious occasions washes away sins, purifies the soul, and helps devotees progress toward moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
The significance of Sangam Snan originates from ancient Hindu scriptures, especially the Puranas. It is believed that during the celestial event of Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean), drops of Amrit (nectar of immortality) fell at Prayagraj, making this confluence a highly revered tirtha (pilgrimage site).
Because of this divine association, the Triveni Sangam is considered one of the holiest places on earth. Bathing here during Magh Mela, Kumbh, and other sacred days is said to grant spiritual merit comparable to performing thousands of yajnas and acts of charity.
Historical references to Sangam Snan can be traced back to early scriptures and classical texts. Ancient travelers and scholars like Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) documented large religious gatherings and spiritual congregations in the Prayagraj region.
Over centuries, kings, saints, ascetics, and common devotees have participated in this sacred tradition, making Sangam Snan one of the oldest continuously practiced religious rituals in the world.
In 2026, the Magh Mela at Prayagraj is scheduled from 3 January 2026 to 15 February 2026, with six major bathing (snan) days at Triveni Sangam.
| Snan Occasion | Date (2026) | Spiritual Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Paush Purnima | 3 January 2026 | Beginning of Magh Mela and commencement of Kalpavas. |
| Makar Sankranti | 14 January 2026 | Sun’s transition into Capricorn; very auspicious for holy bathing. |
| Mauni Amavasya | 18 January 2026 | Most sacred snan day, marked by silence, vows, and deep penance. |
| Basant Panchami | 23 January 2026 | Celebration of spring and special worship of Goddess Saraswati. |
| Magh Purnima | 1 February 2026 | Completion of Magh month observances and Kalpavas. |
| Mahashivratri | 15 February 2026 | Final snan of the Mela period and worship of Lord Shiva. |
Devotees are advised to take the holy dip during early morning hours, preferably during Brahma Muhurat, maintain purity of body and mind, follow a sattvic lifestyle, and engage in charity such as offering food, clothes, or donations after the snan.
Sangam Snan is not merely a ritual bath but a profound spiritual journey rooted in faith, history, and devotion. Participating in Sangam Snan during Magh Mela 2026 offers devotees a blessed opportunity to reconnect with India’s timeless spiritual heritage at the sacred Triveni Sangam.