Which akharas bathe at Ramkund and which at Trimbakeshwar, what Sadhugram is, and how to visit akhara camps respectfully during the Simhastha 2027.
The Nashik Simhastha is unique: the Vaishnav and Shaiva akharas bathe at different places. Understanding this helps you decide where to be on Amrit Snan days.
Who bathes where
| Tradition | Akharas | Snan at |
|---|---|---|
| Vaishnav (Bairagi) | Nirmohi Ani, Digambar Ani, Nirvani Ani, with their many khalsas | Ramkund, Nashik |
| Shaiva (Sannyasi) | Juna, Niranjani, Mahanirvani, Atal, Anand, Awahan, Agni | Kushavarta, Trimbakeshwar |
| Udasin and Nirmal | Bada Udasin, Naya Udasin, Nirmal | As per the tradition agreed for the Simhastha |
All 13 akharas are represented by the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, whose seers took part in fixing the 2027 dates with the state government.
Sadhugram: the city of sadhus
For the Simhastha, the authorities develop a Sadhugram, a temporary settlement for akhara camps, pandals and halls. In 2026 the Nashik–Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority reviewed plans for Sadhugram tentage, akhara camps and convention halls, and was asked to prepare a drainage and flood-management plan because of monsoon rain. The Vaishnav camps have traditionally been around the Tapovan area of Nashik. Check final locations once the authority publishes the mela layout.
The Naga sadhus
The Naga sadhus belong mainly to the Shaiva akharas, the Juna Akhara above all, so Trimbakeshwar is where you are most likely to see their dramatic Amrit Snan procession to Kushavarta.
Visiting akhara camps: etiquette
- Dress modestly and remove footwear where asked.
- Ask before photographing, especially Naga sadhus, and never photograph anyone bathing.
- Don't touch sadhus or their belongings, or sit at a dhuni (sacred fire) unless invited.
- Accept prasad respectfully. Dakshina is voluntary.
- Visit in daylight and in a group.
Where to watch the processions
- Nashik: along the routes leading to Ramkund in Panchavati
- Trimbakeshwar: along the lanes leading to Kushavarta. The town is small, so crowds are very dense.
Arrive before dawn, stay behind barricades, and keep children close.
Learn more
Read Nashik or Trimbakeshwar?, Kushavarta Kund, and our general akharas and Naga sadhus guide.
By KMII Travel Desk · Updated 18 Oct 2026
