Quick Summary: Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Ujjain is expected in 2028, attracting 50+ million pilgrims. Hotel prices rise 3-5x during the mela. Start booking 6-12 months ahead. Budget rooms will cost ₹2,000-4,000/night (normally ₹500-1,500). Best areas: Ram Ghat, Mahakal Temple area, and Dewas Road.
What is Simhastha Kumbh Mela?
The Simhastha Kumbh Mela is held in Ujjain every 12 years when Jupiter transits into Leo (Simha rashi). The next Kumbh Mela is expected in 2028. The last one in 2016 attracted over 75 million pilgrims over the month-long festival, making it one of the largest religious gatherings on earth.
Did You Know? During the 2016 Simhastha, Ujjain's hotel capacity was supplemented by over 5,000 temporary tent accommodations set up by the government and private operators along the Shipra river banks.
Expected Hotel Prices During Kumbh Mela 2028
Based on 2016 data and current pricing trends, here's what to expect:
| Hotel Category | Normal 2026 Price | Expected Kumbh 2028 Price | Example Hotels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dharamshala | ₹100-500 | ₹500-2,000 | Mahakal Dharamshala |
| Budget | ₹500-1,500 | ₹2,000-5,000 | Zostel, Mahakal Ashray |
| Mid-Range | ₹1,500-4,000 | ₹5,000-12,000 | Treebo Aaradhy, Hotel Atharva |
| Luxury | ₹3,500-9,000 | ₹10,000-25,000 | Anjushree, Rudraksh |
Best Areas to Stay During Kumbh Mela
- Near Ram Ghat — Main bathing ghat and center of all Kumbh activities. Walking distance to shahi snan processions.
- Near Mahakal Temple — Always a prime location. Hotels like Hotel Kalpana Palace (500m, from ₹1,500) are ideal.
- Dewas Road — Slightly away from crowds but well-connected by road. More hotel options available.
- Indore Road — Good transport links. Anjushree and Rudraksh Club & Resort are here.
Booking Strategy Timeline
- 12 months before: Book luxury and mid-range hotels on refundable rates
- 6 months before: Book budget hotels — availability drops fast
- 3 months before: Check government tent city bookings on official MP Tourism website
- 1 month before: Last-minute options limited to homestays and Indore-based hotels
Expert Tip: Consider staying in Indore (55 km away) and commuting daily. Indore has 5x more hotel inventory and prices increase only 50-100% during Kumbh vs 300-500% in Ujjain. Read our hotel price guide for current baseline prices.
Alternative Accommodation During Kumbh
- Government Tent Cities: Set up along Shipra river, ₹500-2,000/night. Book through MP Tourism.
- Ashram Stays: Many ashrams offer free or nominal-charge stays for genuine pilgrims.
- Homestays: Locals rent out rooms — negotiate directly. ₹1,000-3,000/night expected.
For more trip planning, see our guides on best time to visit Ujjain and how to reach Ujjain.