The Kumbh Mela is a major religious festival celebrated by Hindus in India. It is held every twelve years at four different locations, namely Haridwar, Allahabad (Prayagraj), Nashik, and Ujjain. The Kumbh Mela is considered one of the largest gatherings of people in the world and attracts millions of pilgrims from all over India and the world. There are several types of Kumbh Mela, each with its unique significance and rituals.

Maha Kumbh Mela: The Maha Kumbh Mela is the largest and most significant of all the Kumbh Melas. It is held every twelve years and rotates between the four locations, namely Haridwar, Allahabad (Prayagraj), Nashik, and Ujjain. The Maha Kumbh Mela is believed to be the most auspicious time for taking a dip in the holy river, and it attracts millions of pilgrims from all over the world.

Ardh Kumbh Mela: The Ardh Kumbh Mela is held every six years in Haridwar and Allahabad (Prayagraj). It is also referred to as the "Half Kumbh Mela" and is believed to be a less intense version of the Maha Kumbh Mela. The Ardh Kumbh Mela is still a significant event and attracts a large number of pilgrims from all over India.

Kumbh Mela: The Kumbh Mela is held every twelve years in Haridwar, Allahabad (Prayagraj), Nashik, and Ujjain. It is believed to be a time when the gods descend to the earth, and taking a dip in the holy river is believed to wash away all sins. The Kumbh Mela is the most well-known of all the Kumbh Melas and attracts millions of pilgrims from all over the world.

Magh Mela: The Magh Mela is held every year in Allahabad (Prayagraj) during the Hindu month of Magh. It is considered a mini version of the Kumbh Mela and attracts a large number of pilgrims. The Magh Mela is believed to be the time when the Ganges river changes its course and flows into the Yamuna river.

Shahi Snan: The Shahi Snan is the most significant ritual of the Kumbh Mela, and it involves taking a dip in the holy river at a particular time and date. The Shahi Snan is believed to be the time when the gods descend to the earth, and taking a dip in the holy river is believed to wash away all sins. The Shahi Snan is held on different dates for different akharas or sects of ascetics and saints who participate in the Kumbh Mela.