Tourist places in and around Allahabad
Sangam/Prayag
The Sangam is one of the most sacred places of the Hindus. Situated around 7 km from Civil Lines, it is the meeting point of three holy rivers-Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Pandas (priests) can be seen here perched on small platforms performing puja and assisting the devout in their ritual ablutions in the shallow waters. The Sangam becomes a hub of activity after every 12 years when it hosts the Kumbh Mela.The sacred, Sangam is the confluence of the three holiest rivers in Hindu mythology- The Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. It is believed that it is at the sangam, that a few drops of the nectar, ‘Amrit Bindu' fell making its waters truly magical. At the sangam, the waters of the Gamges and the Yamuna can be distinctly seen to mergw into one. It is during the Kumbh Mela and the Ardh Kumbh that the Sangam trul;y comes alieve- attracting devotees from all across the country. The holy Sangam is the site for most of the important fairs and festivals, thew year round.
It is the sacred confluence of the three rivers-Ganga, Yamuna and mythical saraswati about 7kms. from civil Lines. The confluence can be reached by a boat and one can witness the meeting of the brownish waters of Ganga with greenish Yamuna, while the legendary saraswati is said to be underground and invisible. Pandas (priests assist devotees to perform puja and ritual ablutions in the shallow waters here.
Around 7 km from Civil Lines, overlooked by the eastern ramparts of the fort, wide flood plains and muddy banks protrude towards the sacred Sangam. The sacred Sangam is the confluence of three of the holiest rivers in Hindu mythology - Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. At the Sangam, the waters of the Ganges and the Yamuna can be distinctly seen to merge into one. It is during the Kumbh/Ardh Kumbh that the Sangam truly comes alive, attracting the devout from all across the country. At the point at which the brown Ganges meets the Greenish Yamuna, pandas (priests) perch on small platforms to perform puja and assist the devout in their ritual ablutions in the shallow waters. Boats to the Sangam, used by pilgrims and tourists alike, can be rented at the ghat immediately east of the fort. On the way to the Sangam, aquatic salesmen loom up on the placid waters selling offerings such as coconuts for pilgrims to discard at the confluence. Once abandoned, the offerings are fished up and sold on to other pilgrims - a blatant if efficient form of recycling.
Allahabad Fort
The strategic location of Prayag proved decisive in motivating Akbar to build the Allahabad Fort near the Sangam in AD 1583. One is awed by the art, architecture, design, and craftsmanship of the fort.Allahabad Fort The Indian army now uses the fort and only a part of it is open to the visitors. This huge, majestic fort has three magnificent galleries flanked by high towers. Visitors are allowed to see the Ashoka Pillar, Saraswati Kup (a well, said to be the source of the river Saraswati), and Jodhabai Palace.Built in 1583 AD, it is the largest of Akbar's forts, matchless in design and construction. Now used by the army, prior permission is needed for a visit except for a limited area open to visitors. The fort has three gateways flanked by high towers. Inside there is the Zenana (harem), and the 3rd century BC Ashoka pillar moved to the fort from Kausambi, Saraswati Koop, a well, said to be the source of the Saraswati river, Patalpuri, the underground temple and the much-revered Akshaya Vata or immortal Banyan tree within the temple.
The fort stands on the banks of the Yamuna near the site of confluence of the three rivers - Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. In its primetime, the fort was unrivalled for its design, construction and cradtsmanship. This huge, majestic fort has three magnificent galleries flanked by high towers.
This imposing fort was built by emperor Akbar in 1583, on the banks of the holy sangam. Today is occupied by the armed forces and visitors are allowed access around the patalpuri temple and the ‘Akshaya Vat' tree.
The massive fort built by emperor Akbar in 1583 AD., stands on the banks of the Yamuna near the confluence site. In its prime, the fort was unrivalled for its design, construction and craftsmanship. This huge, majestic fort has three magnificent galleries flanked by high towers. At present is used by the army and only a limited area is open to visitors. The magnificent outer wall is intact and rises above the water edge. Visitors are allowed to see the Ashokan Pillar and Saraswati Kup, (a well believed to be the source of the Saraswati River) and Jodhabai Palace. The Patalpur temple is also here. So is the much-revered Akshaya Vat or immortal Banyan tree.
Allahabad Museum
The Museum has 18 galleries housing a wide range of artefacts from Bharhut and Kausambi, and and also some Kushana and Gupta carvings, and Rajasthani Miniatures, coins and paintings.It has a fine collection of sculptures and terracottas dating back to Gupta period. The works of Haldar, sajit Khastgir, Jamini roy, Nicholas roerich and thankas of Tibetan Lamas are also exhibited here.
Located near Chandra Shekhar Azad Park, the key attractions of the Allahabad Museum are the paintings of Nicholas Roerich, Rajasthani miniatures, terracotta figurines, coins and stone sculptures from the second century BC to modern times. The museum has eighteen galleries and is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily except Monday.
Patalpuri Temple and Akshaya Vat
Patalpuri Temple and Akshaya Vat This is an underground temple located inside the Allahabad Fort. The temple is famous as the place where Lord Rama worshipped once. It also finds mention in the travelogue of the Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang, who visited India in AD 644. The famous Akshaya Vat (literally, Immortal Tree), one of the most revered tree of the Hindus, is also located within the temple. A permit from the Ordnance Depot or the Tourist Office is required for visiting the Patalpuri Temple and the Akshaya Vat. Anand Bhawan Within this underground temple, inside the fort, lies the Akshayavat or the immortal tree. Believed to have been visited by Lord rama, the temple was also seen by the famous Chiness traveller and writer, Hiuen Tsang during his visit to the place.Ashoka Pillar
This gigantic Ashoka pillar of polished sandstone stands 10.6 metres high, dating back to around 232 BC. The pillar has several edicts and a Persian inscription of Emperor Jahangir inscribed on it, commemorating his accession to the throne.This restored polished 10.6 metres high pillar, dating back to 232 B.C, is set at the main gate of the Fort.
Shankar Viman Mandapam
This is a 130 ft.high structure with four floors, and has the idols of Kumaril Bhatt, Jagatguru Shankaracharya, Kamakshi Devi (with 51 Shaktipeethas around), Tirupati Balaji (with 108 Vishnus around), and Yogshastra Sahastrayoga Linga (with 108 Shivas around).30 feet high with four floors, it has the idols of Kumaril Bhatt, Jagatguru Shankaracharya, Kamakshi Devi (with 51 Shaktipeethas around), Yogsahastra Sahastrayoga Linga.
Minto Park (Madan Mohan Malviya Park)
It is situated near the Saraswati Ghat. It has a stone memorial with a four-lion symbol on top, the foundation of which was laid by Lord Minto in 1910.Chandra shekhar Azad Park (Alfred Park)
This is the biggest park of Allahabad siruated behind the museum. It was formerly known as Alfred Park. A huge statue of George V and Victoria were installed in the centre of it where police bands used to play occasionally. After independence, this park has been renamed as Chandra shekhar AZAd Park and a bust statue of Azad has been erected where he died as a result of an encounter with the police during the British period. In the centre of the park, a stadium named Mahmana Madan Mohan Malviya has been made where all important matches are played and sports organised. Public library has also been made in this park which has about 75,000 books, besides a treasure trove of manuscripts and journals.Anand Bhawan
Anand Bhawan is the ancestral home of the Nehrus. Here one is offered a glimpse of the lifestyle of the family that retained for a long time the status of the most important political dynasty in India. Anand Bhawan now houses one of the finest museums of India and a memorabilia of the Nehru-Gandhi family.This former ancestral home of the Nehru family was donated to the Indian government in 1970 by Indira Gandhi, and turned into a museum. The exhibits include personal items of Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi. There is also a Planetarium within the compound.
This is the ancestral home of the Nehru family and is now a museum. It has become a focal point for the Indian National Congress during the freedom struggle.
It was the ancestral home of the Nehru family and now houses a fine museum, displaying the memorabilia of the Nehru family. The grand house is associated with several important events of India's freedom struggle.
The erstwhile ancestral home of the Nehru family. Today it has been turned into a fine museum. Here, many momentous decisions, events, related to the freedom struggle took place. The main building houses a museum, which displays the memorabilia of the Nehru family.
Visiting hours: 09:30 am to 05:00 pm. Ticket: Rs.2.00. Closed on Mondays and Government holidays.
Mankameshwar Temple
Situated near the Saraswati Ghat, on the banks of Yamuna, this is one of the famous Shiva temple of Allahabad.All Saints Cathedral
This cathedral has been dedicated to the memory os people of all ages and places who have kept their faith in God. The All Saints Cathedral in one of the finest cathedrals in this part of the country. Designed more than a century ago by Sri William Emerson, the eminent architect who also designed the victoria Me,orial Kolkata, the cathedral has some truly exceptional stained glass murals. It is also called Patthar Girja.This finest cathedral in Asia was designed in Gothic style by Sir William Emerson in 1870 and consecrated in 1887. Its impressive marble altar with intricate inlay and stained glasswork are noteworthy.
Swaraj Bhawan
Swaraj Bhawan, lying close to Anand Bhawan, is the house where the former Prime Minister of India Mrs. Indira Gandhi was born. Built by Pt. Moti Lal Nehru, the building was donated to the nation in 1930 to be used as the headquarters of the Congress Committee. Today, the Swaraj Bhawan houses the Jawaharlal Nehru Trust.The old Anand Bhawan, which in the year 1930 was donated to the Nation by Moti Lal Nehru, to be used as the headquarters of the Congress Committee. Moti Lal Nehru renamed it as Swaraj Bhawan. Late Prime Minister of India, Mrs. Indira Gandhi was born here.
Visiting hours: 09:30 am to 01:00 pm and 02:00 pm to 05:30 pm. Closed on Monday's.
Khusrau Bagh
This is a large garden where the tombs of Khusrau, his sister, and his Rajput mother are located. Khusrau was the son of emperor Jahangir who had made many unsuccessful attempts to assassinate his father and take the reigns in his hands. However, he was murdered by his own brother Shahjahan in the end.Khusro, the son of emperor Jehangir and Shah Begam is buried here The garden has three mausoleums including that of Jehangir's first wife-Shah Begum.
Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela, believed to be the biggest religious gathering on earth is held every 12 years on the banks of the Sangam - the confluence of the three holy rivers of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. The one celebrated at the Holy Sangam in Allahabad is the largest and holiest of them, attended by millions of devotees. A holy dip in the sacred waters is believed to cleanse the soul. The Sangam comes alive during Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh with a huge temporary community being set up on the vacant land on the Allahabad side of the river.The Kumbh Mela is the greatest of north Indian festival-fairs and it has exerted a mesmeric influence over the mind and the imagination of the ordinary Indian from time immemorial. It is held once every three years by rotation, on the banks of holy rivers-the Godavari in Nasik, the Shipra in Ujjain, the Ganga in Haridwar and the Sangam in Allahabad.Three holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati A dip in the Ganga and boat ride on its serene waters.
The Kumbh Mela. The experience of watching nearly two million people dunk themselves thrice in the river believing that it will take them to heaven can be life changing, indeed.
Allahabad does not have much to offer in terms of entertainment avenues for kids. There are a couple of multiplexes and shopping malls which offer the usual play grounds and movies. Being a city steeped in history, you could take your kids on a tour of the Ananda Bhavan, the Nehru family estate which is now a museum. It was at this house that Indira Gandhi was born, and it was here that many discussions about the freedom struggle took place.
In January and February, 2001, Allahabad hosted the Kumbha Mela from January 9 to February, 21,2001. During this period, Allahabad become the most populated city of the world and over 30 million people from different parts of the world participated in the Kumbha Mela. Religious discourses, cultural activities and other events kept the people, at large spellbound during this month long festival and is viewed as the biggest spectacle of faith and symbolic of ‘Jagat Kutumbakam' or a ‘Global village', wherein different cultures, religions, different schools of thought came together, discussed and shared information and knowledge. It was an open university on religion.
Hindus traditionally regard river confluences as auspicious places, more so the Sangam at Allahabad, where the Yamuna and the Ganges meet the River of Enlightenment, the mythical Saraswati. According to legend, Vishnu was carrying a kumbh (pot) of amrita (nectar), when a scuffle broke out between the gods, and four drops were spilled. They fell to earth at the four tirthas of Prayag, Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain. The event is commemorated every three years by the Kumbh Mela, held at each tirtha in turn; the Sangam is known as Tirtharaja, the "King of Tirthas", and its Mela, once every twelve years, is the greatest and holiest of all. The Maha Kumbh Mela is the largest religious fair in India (probably in the whole world), attended by literally millions of rejoicing the vast floodplains and river banks adjacent to the confluence are overrun by pilgrims, tents, organized in almost military fashion by the government, the local authorities and the police. The mela is especially renowned for the presence of an extraordinary array of religious ascetics - sadhus and mahants - enticed from remote hideaways in forests, mountains and caves. Once astrologers have determined the propitious bathing time or Kumbhayog, the first to hit the water are legions of Naga Sadhus or Naga Babas, the ferocious-looking members of the "snake sect" who cover their naked bodies with ash, and wear hair in long dreadlocks. The sadhus, who see themselves as guardians of the faith, approach the confluence at the appointed time with all the pomp and bravado of a charging army.
Ardh Kumbh Mela and Magh Mela
The Ardh or half Kumbh is held every six years on the banks of Sangam. Second only to the Kumbh in sanctity, the Ardh Kumbh also attracts the devout in millions. In addition, Magh Mela is an annual event held at the Sangam.The Ardha or half Kumbha is held every six years on the banks of the Sangam. Second only to the Kumbha in sanctity, the Ardha Kumbha also attracts devouts in millions, from all over the world. The Magh Mela is an annual event held at the Sangam
Akshaya Vat
The immortal tree within the Patalauri temple, has found mention in the description of several ancient scriptures, writers and historians. The tree stands in a deep niche above an underground shaft, which is said to lead to Triveni. Visitors need permission to visit the Fort, Patalpuri Temple, Ashoka Pillar and Akshaya Vat from Commandant, Ordinance Depot, Fort, Allahabad.Hanuman Mandir
The Hanuman Mandir is a unique temple in the vicinity of the Allahabad Fort. It is renowned for the supine image of the monkey-god Hanuman. This is the only temple to have Hanuman in a reclining posture. Though a very small temple, it is thronged by hundreds of devotees' everyday.This particular temple has an idol of Lord Hanumana in a reclining posture. IT is situated close to the Sangam and is considered unusual because of the supine image. When the Ganga is in spate, the temple often gets submerged.
The temple near the Sangam enshrines a unique image of lord Hanuman, in a reclining posture. Other attractions are - Allahabad Ubiversity, Jawahar Planetarium, Khusro Bagh, Mankameshwar Temple, Public Library, Shankar Viman Mandapam, Swaraj Bhavan etc.
Near the Sangam, this temple is unique in North India, for its supine image of Hanuman. Here the big idol of Lord Hanuman is seen in a reclining posture. When the Ganga is in spate, this temple gets submerged.
Jhusi (Pratisthanpuri)
With its many ashrams and temples, Jhusi (Pratisthanpuri) is a tranquil spot that offers peace of mind to the visitor. It is barely 9 km from Allahabad, and can be reached by taxis, buses, boats, etc.Bhita
Bhita (20 km) is an archaeological site on the banks of the Yamuna River. Recent excavations at this site have brought to light the remains of an ancient city dating back to 300 BC. A museum housing stone and metal seals and various terracotta statues is also located here.Bhita is 18 km from Allahabad. Excavations here have revealed the remains of an ancient walled city. The Museum has stone and metal seals, coins and terracotta statues dating to the Gupta and Mauryan periods.
Shringverpur
Shringverpur is a historical site located at a distance of around 40 km from Allahabad. It was once the capital city of the kingdom of Nishadraj (King of Boatmen). Legend has it that Lord Rama stayed here overnight while going to the forest. Before steering Rama across the Ganga in his boat, his feet were washed by Nishadraj. KaushambiKaushambi
Kaushambi (62 km) is a place traditionally associated with the Mahabharata. The city was once a great Buddhist centre. Lord Buddha is believed to have visited Kaushambi twice to deliver discourses. The ruins of an ancient fort and a monastery bear witness to the antiquity of the place.Kausambi is 63 km southwest of Allahabad on the way to Chitrakoot. This ancient Buddhist and Jain centre was the capital of the Vatsa king Udayana. Buddha delivered several discourses in this historical city. The remains of an Ashoka pillar and a palace in ruins are of special archaeological interest here. Also to be seen here is a Digambar Jain temple.
Kara
Situated on the banks of the Ganges at a distance of around 70 km from Allahabad, Kara's claim to fame is the Temple of Shitala Devi. Once the provincial capital of the Mughals, the landscape of Kara is dotted with ruins that extend up to 3.5 km along the Ganges. Apart from the temple dedicated to Shitala Devi, the Jama Masjid, the Samadhi of Sant Maluk Das, Hanuman Temple, Kshetrapal Bhairav Temple, Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Dargah of Khwaja Karak and Shivala Maharishi Ashram are the main attractions of Kara.Kara, situated 69 km from Allahabad on the banks of the Ganga, is famous for the Temple of Kara Devi (Shitla Devi). Once the provincial capital of the Mughals, its ruins extend 3.5 km along the Ganga. Some other main attractions here are Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Dargah of Khwaja Karak and Shivala Maharishi Ashram.
Garhwa
50 km from Allahabad has a fort surrounding the ruins of temples dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva. To the west of the fort, is a big tank - Garhwa Tal.Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is a popular Hindu pilgrimage 132 km from Allahabad. Bathing ghats line the Mandakini river and there are over 30 temples in this town. Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are believed to have taken their incarnations and Lord Ram stayed here during his exile. Places of religious interest include Kamadgiri, Ramghat, Janki Kund, Hanuman Dhara, Gupt Godavari, Sati Ansuiya Ashram.Tons River Aqueduct
The Tons River Aqueduct is a popular picnic spot situated around 43 km from Allahabad.Upardaha Lake
It is a protected lake just 44 km away from Allahabad. Kumbh MelaMinto Park
It is situated near Saraswati Ghat, it has a stone memorial with a four-lion symbol on top, the foundation of which was laid by Lord Minto in 1910.Jawahar Planetarium - For a celestial trip of the scientific kind, visit the Planetarium.
Visiting hours: 11:00 am to 04:00 pm. Ticket: Rs. 5.00. Closed on Mondays and 4th Thursday of the month.
Allahabad University - One of the most famous universities of India, it has a sprawling campus, graced by fine buildings in Victorian and Islamic architectural styles.
Allahabad Museum - The museum has a good collection of sculpture, especially of the Gupta era.
Muir College (1874)
Designed by William Emerson, this is an excellent mix of Gothic and Indian architectural elements. Commenced in 1874 and opened in 1886, it has an arcade quadrangle, which is dominated, by a 200 feet minaret tower in cream coloured sandstone from Mirzapur with marble and mosaic floors. The domes of the Indo-Saracenic structure are clad in Multan glazed tiles.Chandra Shekar Azad Park
Adjacent to the museum, this splendid park was once known as Company Bagh. It has some fine colonial Buildings, including a public library.All Saints Cathedral (Patthar Girjaghar)
This magnificent cathedral was designed by Sir William Emerson in 1870 and consecrated in 1887, is the finest of Anglican Cathedral in Asia is faced in White Stone with red stone dressing. No one visiting the cathedral can fail to be impressed by the beauty of the marble altar with intricate inlay and mosaic work.Public Library (1864)
Standing at Chandra Shekhar Azad Park, the memorial has a lofty tower and arcaded cloister. In 1879, the library was shifted to the present premises. It has about 75,000 books, besides a treasure trove of manuscripts and journals.Mayo Memorial Hall (1979)
Situated near the Thornhill and Myne Memorial, this large hall has a 180 feet high tower. The interior of this memorial hall was ornamented with designs by Professor Gamble of the South Kensington Museum, London. Completed in 1879 this hall was meant for public meetings, balls and receptions in commemoration of the assassinated Viceroy.Excursion
Kaushambi (60 km)
According to tradition, the birth of Kaushambi is ascribed to the Pandava brothers and Arjuna`s grandson, King Parikshit. Gautam Buddha visited Kaushambi in the 6th and 9th year after his enlightenment and delivered several discourses, elevating the city to a great centre of Buddhism. A wealthy merchant of the city built the monastery of Ghositarama. A large number of architectural and sculptural remains, terracotta figurines and other relies reflect the high aesthetic and technical attainment of the people of Kaushambi.Chitrakoot (132 KM)
- While travelling in forests during his exile Lord Ram stayed here. Places of interest in Chitrakoot include Kamadgiri, Ramghat, Janki Kund, Hanuman Dhara, Gupt Godavari and Sati Ansuiya Ashram.Ayodhya (167 km)
The ancient city of Ayodhya, according to the Ramayana, was founded by Manu, the law-giver of the Hindus. For centuries it was the capital of the descendants of the Surya dynasty, of which Lord Rama was the most celebrated king.Shringverpur (40 km)
This ancient site with its Ramchaura is believed to be the spot where Lord Rama stayed a night before being taken across the river by Nishadraj.Kara (69 km)
On the banks of the Ganga, it was a provincial capital of Mughals with ruins extending up to 3.5 km. Other attractions are Sheetla Mata Mandir and Kalashwar Mahadevji.S