“All sins are cleaned on entering Prayag”
Prayag, more commonly known to us as Allahabad is one of the largest cities of Uttar Pradesh and is steeped in history. For those of you well versed with the Hindu scripture, Ramayana, Prayag is the place where Lord Rama, Sita and Laxmana spent some time before proceeding to nearby Chitrakoot. At that time, it consisted of just a few rishi’s huts; today it is one of the most populous cities in India.
Standing on the banks of the Yamuna river, marvel at the beautiful views of Allahabad | Photo Credit: Naved Ansari
Allahabad is situated at the confluence of the holy Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers and has a chequered history, which is quintessentially religious, cultural and historical. While the city has lots to offer its travellers, here are some of the things you must do on your trip to Allahabad.
Things To Do In Allahabad
1. Kumbh Mela: Allahabad is one of the four sites of the Kumbh Mela, the ancient Hindu pilgrimage. Organized once every 12 years, it is the largest religious gathering on the planet.
2. Sangam: The Sanskrit word for “confluence”, Sangam is a holy site for the Hindus. It is believed that a dip in the Holy water will wash away all your sins!
3. Dussehra: If you happen to visit the city during Dussehra, you will see the famous Ramleela celebrations in almost every corner of the city. The Ramleela of Pattharchatti and Pajawa are worth seeing. Allahabad also has a large Bengali community and Durga Puja celebrations are a great time for locals to showcase their talent.
4. Allahabad University: One of the most reputed universities in India, Allahabad University’s alumni includes the likes of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and other former Indian presidents and prime ministers. The University has some of the most beautiful Gothic architecture and also houses the Kausambi Museum.
The Kumbh Mela is one of the biggest religious gatherings in the world
5. Akbar’s Fort: Built by Emperor Akbar, this majestic structure stands at the junction of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. However, you need prior permission to enter the fort. Once inside you will get to see the splendid Zenana Palace and the Ashoka Pillar. There is a sacred fig tree located within the fort known as Akshayavat. According to legend, when Lord Narayana showed his divine power by flooding the world, the tree was the only thing that was visible above water.
6. Anand Bhawan: Visit the Nehru family’s ancestral home, which is now a museum. The two-storied building houses their personal items as well family photographs. Don’t forget to see the room where Gandhiji used to stay during his visits.
7. Allahabad Museum: If you are an ancient history enthusiast, visit the Allahabad museum and marvel at the wide range of stone sculptures, carvings from Khajuraho, paintings and other artifacts.
8. Bare Hanumanji Temple: Visit the temple situated near the Sangam to see the magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman, believed to be of the Ramayana era.
9. Chadra Shekhar Azad Park: The park is closely associated with the freedom struggle and was known as Alfred Park of Company Garden during British rule. Today, you will see a lot of locals who come here to relax while others indulge in cricket or football.
Getting There
By Air: The best way to reach Allahabad is to fly into Varanasi or Lucknow and drive from there.
By Train: Allahabad is well connected by trains and innumerable trains run from Varanasi, Lucknow, Delhi and Kolkata.
By Road: There are several buses that ply to and from nearby cities. You can also rent a taxi if you like. But be sure to check the price beforehand.
Did you know the famous actor veteran Amitabh Bachchan is from Allahabad? More reason for you to travel perhaps.