Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is a vibrant city situated in Uttar Pradesh, India, on the banks of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. This city holds immense significance for people of various communities across India. For Hindus, it is a sacred destination, with numerous temples, the Triveni Sangam, and the Akshayavat tree symbolizing faith and divinity. The city is also home to historical sites such as Khusro Bagh, mausoleums, and several mosques.
As a city of historical importance, Prayagraj boasts monuments like the Allahabad Museum and the Ashoka Pillar, which provide insights into significant events from the past. The city's Mughal heritage is reflected in the Allahabad Fort, while the British era is represented through landmarks such as Swaraj Bhavan and Anand Bhavan.
Prayagraj also features picturesque parks like Sumitranandan Pant Park and Chandrashekhar Azad Park, which add to its charm. For those interested in science, a visit to the Jawahar Planetarium is a must. To experience the brilliance of modern architecture, the New Yamuna Bridge is an ideal spot. The city's rich culture, traditions, and history make it a must-visit destination, with a range of attractions you should not miss.
# Triveni SangamThe Triveni Sangam is the sacred confluence of three major rivers in Hinduism—Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati—located in Allahabad. As one of the most revered and visited sites in the city, it also hosts key fairs and festivals of the Hindu religion. The spot is especially significant during the Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, and the Ardh Kumbh, celebrated every six years. Pilgrims flock to the Sangam to bathe in the holy waters, believing it cleanses them of sins. The distinctive colors of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, with the latter's slightly greenish hue, mark the meeting point of these sacred waters.
# Khusro BaghKhusro Bagh, once a burial site near Allahabad Junction, is now a walled garden showcasing Mughal architecture. The site houses three exquisite sandstone mausoleums, dedicated to Mughal royals Shah Begum, Khusrau Mirza, and Nithar Begum, all related to Akbar's son, Jahangir. Shah Begum’s tomb, resembling the architectural style of Fatehpur Sikri, is renowned for its three-tiered design. The tombs are adorned with intricate calligraphy and Arabesque motifs, reflecting the grandeur of Mughal design. This historical garden offers valuable insights into the Mughal heritage of Prayagraj.
# Anand BhavanAnand Bhavan, originally a mansion bought by Motilal Nehru, became the Nehru family's residence after the Swaraj Bhavan was repurposed as the headquarters of the Indian National Congress in the 1930s. Today, it serves as a museum and is home to the Jawahar Planetarium. The mansion, furnished with European antiques and fine china, mirrors the original Swaraj Bhavan. Anand Bhavan houses artifacts linked to India’s independence movement and hosted many meetings with prominent freedom leaders. In 1970, the mansion was donated to the government by Indira Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru’s daughter.
# Allahabad MuseumEstablished in 1931, the Allahabad Museum is one of India's most prestigious museums, offering a deep dive into the nation's modern history. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including prehistoric rock art, and is a hub for research. The museum, known for its eco-sustainability, operates on solar power. First established by Sir William Muir, the museum has been a center of scholarly activity, hosting valuable historical manuscripts and monuments. As a visitor, the museum offers a rich opportunity to explore India’s cultural and historical heritage.
# Jawahar PlanetariumAdjacent to Anand Bhavan, the Jawahar Planetarium, built in 1979, is a perfect blend of science and history. It hosts the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial lecture annually and features captivating shows about the solar system and the wonders of space. The planetarium's beautiful architecture adds to the educational experience, making it a must-visit for those curious about astronomy and science.
# Allahabad Fort
Constructed in 1583 by the Mughal Emperor Akbar at the Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort is a remarkable example of Mughal architecture. The fort surrounds the sacred Akshayavat tree and is classified as a National Monument by the Archaeological Survey of India. With its exquisite motifs, inscriptions, and grand design, the fort stands as a testament to the rich Mughal heritage of the region. It is a key historical landmark in Prayagraj, attracting tourists eager to experience its monumental grandeur.
# Chandrashekhar Azad ParkSpanning 133 acres, Chandrashekhar Azad Park, formerly known as Alfred Park, is a sprawling public park in Allahabad. Originally built in 1870 to commemorate Prince Alfred’s visit, it was renamed in 1931 to honor the freedom fighter Chandrashekhar Azad. The park provides a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists, offering an ideal spot for relaxation and picnics. It also serves as an important historical landmark related to India’s modern freedom struggle.
# All Saints CathedralThe All Saints Cathedral in Allahabad is an impressive architectural and spiritual site. Built during the British colonial period, this cathedral is an example of Gothic Revival architecture, blending Western and indigenous design elements. The cathedral serves as a place of worship and a symbol of the city’s colonial past, with its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork.
# Swaraj BhavanSwaraj Bhavan, once the residence of Motilal Nehru, is now a museum dedicated to India’s struggle for independence. Managed by the Jawaharlal Nehru Fund, the museum showcases photographs and artifacts related to the Indian freedom movement, including the Charkha used by Mahatma Gandhi. Visitors can explore the house’s 42 rooms, which house exhibits related to the Nehru family and their role in India's independence, as well as historical meetings held by freedom leaders.
# AkshayavatThe Akshayavat, an ancient fig tree housed within the Allahabad Fort, holds deep religious significance for Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, when Lord Vishnu flooded the world to demonstrate his power, the Akshayavat was the only object left standing above the water. The tree is considered indestructible, and while access to it is restricted, it is open to public worship during the Kumbh Mela. The Akshayavat remains a key spiritual landmark in Allahabad, symbolizing faith and endurance.