PRAYAGRAJ, Jan. 17 -- The ongoing 44-day annual religious fair of Magh Mela 2026, being held on the banks of the Triveni Sangam, has witnessed a surge in both devotees and tourists in recent days. To enhance the visitor experience, tourism opportunities at the mela have been expanded, including the introduction of a 'Heli Joy Ride' service. Previously, this service was only available during the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh. The mela, set along the sacred Sangam, has transformed into a grand confluence of faith, devotion and culture. Following the two major bathing festivals, the wave of religious fervour has resulted in more than 3 crore devotees visiting the mela in the first 13 days alone. The growing interest from tourists prompted the Uttar Pradesh state tourism development corporation (UPSTDC) to launch the Heli Joy Ride service, offering aerial views of the mela. Ashish Kumar Singh, managing director of UPSTDC, said the service was designed to allow visitors to enjoy the grandeur of the Magh Mela from the skies. A temporary helipad has been set up near Delhi Public School (DPS) in the Arail area of the mela, with Thumbi Aviation, Pune, managing the operations. Tourists have welcomed the new service enthusiastically. Siddharth, manager of operations at Thumbi Aviation, said the rides are available from 8 am to 5 pm, each lasting seven to eight minutes, with a fare of Rs.4,200 per person. htc...