Haridwar Makar Sankranti 2026: Millions to Take a Holy Dip Tomorrow; Check Precise Bathing Timings and New Traffic Plan

Haridwar, January 13, 2026: The holy city of Haridwar is fully prepared for tomorrow’s Makar Sankranti, the first major bathing festival of the year. Devotees from all corners of the country have already started arriving in the city since this evening. According to information released by Vedic astrologers and the local administration, the Sun will transition into the Capricorn zodiac (Makar Rashi) on the afternoon of January 14, significantly increasing the spiritual importance of the 'Punya Kaal' (Auspicious Period).

Auspicious Timings for Holy Bath and Charity (Muhurat)

According to the Hindu Panchang and astrological calculations, the auspicious timings for January 14, 2026, are as follows:

• Makar Sankranti Moment (Sun Transit): 03:13 PM

• Punya Kaal (Auspicious Period): 03:13 PM to 05:45 PM

• Maha Punya Kaal (Most Auspicious Period): 03:13 PM to 04:58 PM

• Brahma Muhurta Bath: 04:51 AM to 05:44 AM (Best for meditation and early morning rituals)

Special Note: Astrologers believe that since the Sankranti moment occurs during the daytime this year, the merits gained from charity (Daan) and the holy bath (Snan) will be eternal (Akshaya).

Traffic Advisory and Route Diversions

In anticipation of the massive crowds, Haridwar Police has implemented a new traffic plan effective from Monday night until the night of January 14:

• Ban on Heavy Vehicles: A strict 'No-Entry' for all heavy vehicles (trucks and private buses) is in effect within the Haridwar urban area. These vehicles are being diverted or stopped at the district borders, including Narsan, Bhagwanpur, and Raiwala.

• Delhi-Meerut Route: Small vehicles arriving from Delhi are being directed to the 'Rishikul' and 'Bairagi Camp' parking zones.

• Dehradun-Rishikesh Route: Vehicles coming from the Dehradun side have been allotted parking spaces near 'Motichur' and 'Chandi Ghat.'

• Auto-Vikram Operations: Routes for autos and e-rickshaws leading toward Har Ki Pauri have been restricted to ensure smooth movement for pedestrians.

Administrative and Security Arrangements

• Zones and Sectors: The entire Mela area has been divided into 8 Zones and 21 Sectors for better management.

• CCTV and Drones: AI-powered drones and high-definition CCTV cameras are monitoring Har Ki Pauri and other major ghats in real-time.

• Water Police: Considering the strong currents of the Ganga, personnel from the Water Police and SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) have been deployed at all major bathing ghats.