The 13 akharas, who the Naga sadhus are, what Peshwai and Amrit Snan processions are, and how to visit akhara camps respectfully at the Haridwar Kumbh 2027.
The akharas are the soul of the Kumbh. These ancient monastic orders lead the Amrit Snans, set up vast camps in the mela, and give the Kumbh much of its colour and spiritual energy.
The 13 akharas
The akharas are represented by the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, which works with the mela administration on dates and arrangements. They fall into four groups:
| Tradition | Akharas |
|---|---|
| Shaiva (Sannyasi): 7 | Juna, Niranjani, Mahanirvani, Atal, Anand, Awahan, Agni |
| Vaishnav (Bairagi): 3 | Nirmohi, Digambar, Nirvani Ani |
| Udasin: 2 | Bada Udasin, Naya Udasin |
| Nirmal: 1 | Nirmal Panchayati |
Who are the Naga sadhus?
Naga sadhus are initiated ascetics, mostly of the Shaiva akharas, who renounce worldly life, including clothing in many cases. They smear their bodies with ash and carry tridents or swords as symbols of their historic role as defenders of the faith. Most live in remote places and appear in large numbers mainly at the Kumbh. The Juna Akhara is the largest.
The akhara calendar at a Kumbh
- Dharma Dhwaja: each akhara raises its flag at its camp, marking the start of its Kumbh.
- Peshwai or Chhavni Pravesh: a grand procession as the akhara enters its mela camp, with chariots, bands and the akhara's leaders.
- Amrit Snan: processions to Har Ki Pauri on the three Amrit Snan days (6 March, 8 March and 14 April 2027).
- Departure: after the final Amrit Snan, many akharas leave for their next destinations.
Dates for each akhara's flag and Peshwai are fixed by the akharas themselves and are usually announced shortly before the mela. Ask your coordinator once you arrive.
Visiting an akhara camp: etiquette
- Dress modestly and remove footwear where asked.
- Ask before photographing anyone, especially Naga sadhus. Some welcome it; many do not.
- Never photograph people bathing.
- Don't touch sadhus or their belongings, or sit in their dhuni (sacred fire) area unless invited.
- Accept prasad respectfully. Offering dakshina is customary but voluntary.
- Women and children are welcome at most camps during the day; go in a group.
Where to see them
- Along the Amrit Snan procession routes, from early morning.
- In the akhara sectors of the mela during the day, which have open satsangs, bhandaras and discourses.
- At Har Ki Pauri after the processions.
Experience it with a guide
A coordinator who knows the mela layout makes akhara visits far easier. Our Haridwar Kumbh packages include an escorted mela walk. Read more in Amrit Snan in Haridwar 2027.
By KMII Travel Desk · Updated 18 Oct 2026
