A well-planned pilgrimage is a comfortable pilgrimage. Whether you are walking the Kanwar route from Sultanganj or coming directly for darshan at Baba Baidyanath Dham, packing the right things and knowing the basic etiquette will help you focus on your devotion rather than avoidable trouble. Use this checklist and the do’s and don’ts below to prepare for Shravani Mela.

What to Carry: Essentials

• A valid photo ID, and a few copies kept separately
• Cash in small denominations, plus a backup stored separately (card acceptance can be limited)
• A refillable water bottle
• A light raincoat or poncho and a small umbrella for the monsoon
• Comfortable, broken-in footwear (and note that many pilgrims walk barefoot on the Kanwar route by tradition)
• A change of light, quick-drying clothes; saffron is traditional for kanwariyas
• A power bank and charging cable

Health and Comfort Kit

• Personal medicines, plus a prescription copy if needed
• Oral rehydration salts, basic pain relief, antiseptic cream, and bandages
• Blister care and foot balm, especially for walkers
• Hand sanitiser, wet wipes, and a small towel
• Sunscreen and a cap or cloth for shade

For the Rituals

• Your kanwar and sealed vessel for Ganga water (for those walking from Sultanganj)
• Offerings such as bel (bilva) leaves and flowers, arranged simply for a smooth queue
• A waterproof pouch for documents and phone
• A small bag or lock for the temple cloakroom, since items like phones may be restricted inside the sanctum

Do’s

• Follow the instructions of police, volunteers, and temple staff
• Stay hydrated and rest when you feel tired; there is no prize for pushing past your limit
• Respect fellow pilgrims, keep patience in the queue, and help the elderly and children around you
• Keep the premises and route clean; use bins and community facilities
• Dress modestly and observe the customs of the temple
• Note down official helpline numbers and a family contact before you set out

Don’ts

• Do not carry large amounts of cash or valuables into the crowd
• Do not consume alcohol or intoxicants; the pilgrimage is observed with cleanliness and restraint
• Do not push, shove, or attempt shortcuts through barricades
• Do not litter or waste water at the supply points
• Do not believe touts promising guaranteed quick darshan; rely on official arrangements
• Do not leave children or elderly members unattended in the crowd

What You Cannot Carry Into the Temple

Security and crowd control tighten sharply during the Mela. Plan to enter the temple complex carrying almost nothing:

• Mobile phones are banned inside the temple complex. The temple committee enforces this to protect the sanctity of the shrine, stop photography and video inside, and keep the crowd moving. Deposit your phone at a designated locker or authorised storage point before you join the queue — or better, leave it with someone outside.
• Bags and large luggage are not permitted during the Mela. Carry only your offering.
• Leather items — belts, wallets, bags — and footwear must be left outside.
• Electronic gadgets, cameras and plastic bottles are generally refused at the gate.

Kanwariyas on the walk also traditionally avoid oils, soaps, footwear and leather for the duration of the yatra. Offerings that are welcome remain the traditional ones: Ganga water, bel (bilva) leaves, flowers and dhatura.

Temple rules on permitted items and offerings are set by the Baidyanath Dham temple committee and the district administration, and are tightened further on peak days. Confirm the current guidelines at the gate before you enter.