Maha Kumbh 2025: Prayagraj, Ayodhya Airfares Higher Than Other International Destinations

The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela gathering has created a significant impact on the airfares to Prayagraj and Ayodhya. The airfares have witnessed a four-fold rise from Hyderabad, exceeding fares to many international destinations.

Comparatively, tickets to Singapore, Bangkok, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, or even destinations in the UAE are available for under 15,000, but one-way commutes to Ayodhya and Prayagraj are charged between 24,000 and 30,000. And this scenario seems to extend for the next few days of January.

Read Also: IIT Kanpur Takes Charge of Comprehensive Safety Review for Mahakumbh 2025

Moreover, the first week of February is also equally expensive, with prices touching 19,000 to 21,000.  Barring one direct flight to Ayodhya, the majority of these are non-stop connections.

While compared to others, the current fare from Hyderabad to Bangkok is 12,500, and similarly, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and UAE fares hover in the 10,000 to 20,000 range. This hike in airfares also leads travelers to search for alternatives for their pilgrimage travel. This sharp increase in airfares during festivals or major events has long sparked debate.

Read Also: Maha Kumbh Mela Begins Today: All You Need To Know About India’s Largest Religious Gathering

As per reports, since the second Shahi Snan is planned for January 29, this surge to limited seat capacity on routes to Prayagraj and Ayodhya is coupled with an increase in pilgrims to Kumbh Mela. According to Abdul Majeed Faheem, the chairman of the Travel Agents Federation of India, the pilgrims are willing to pay any amount for their trip.

Moreover, the lodging near Prayagraj is also witnessing a hike where people are spending 15,000 to 20,000 for a night. This also sparks dissatisfaction from passengers and demands a standard fare.