Prayag / Allahabad – Rama Crosses The Ganga, Leaving Behind His Kingdom

“All sins are cleaned on entering Prayag”

Distance from Delhi: 634 kilometres

Prayag, better known today as Allahabad, is one of the largest cities of Uttar Pradesh and is steeped in mythology, history, religion and culture. For those well versed with the Ramayana, Prayag is where Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshman spent some time before proceeding to nearby Chitrakoot.

While the city has a lot to offer travellers, here are some things we recommend you do on your trip to the city.

Places To Visit In Allahabad

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.

Sangam: The Sanskrit word for “confluence”, Sangam is a holy site for the Hindus where the three rivers - Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati - meet. It is believed that a dip in the Holy water will wash away all your sins!

Dussehra: If you happen to visit the city during Dussehra, you will see the famous Ramlila celebrations in almost every corner of the city. The Ramlilas of Pattharchatti and Pajawa are worth seeing. Allahabad also has a large Bengali community and Durga Puja is widely celebrated.

Read More: From Elephant Processions to Garba, There’s More to Dussehra than Burning of Ravana!

Allahabad University: One of the most reputed universities in India, Allahabad University’s alumni include many Indian presidents, prime ministers, scholars and poets. The University has some of the most beautiful Gothic architecture and also houses the Kausambi Museum.

Akbar’s Fort: Built by Emperor Akbar, this majestic structure stands at the junction of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. You need prior permission to enter the fort; however, once inside you can 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, this tree was the only thing that was visible above water.

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.

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.

Bare Hanumanji Temple: Visit the temple situated near the Sangam to see the magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman, said to be from the Ramayana era.

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.

Read More: Must-Have Spiritual Experiences in Allahabad and Varanasi

Getting There

Air: The best way to reach Allahabad is to fly into Varanasi or Lucknow and drive from there.

Train: Allahabad is well connected by trains and innumerable trains run from Varanasi, Lucknow, Delhi and Kolkata.

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.

Hotel: Some good hotels to stay in Allahbad are Kanha Shyam, Landmark Inn and Kunjpur Guest House

Did You Know?

Amitabh Bachchan is from Allahabad. More reason for you to travel perhaps?

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