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Uttar Pradesh

Pilgrimage Through Time

By: Travel and Food Network

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Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is a city bursting with sanctity, heritage, and marvels. Embark on your journey by witnessing the sacred meeting point of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers at the Triveni Sangam. It's a spiritual spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. Immerse yourself in the history of the City of Prime Ministers, starting with Anand Bhavan, the picturesque residence of India's inaugural Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The tales woven into its walls offer a captivating glimpse into the past. As you meander through the cityscape, you'll encounter a diverse cultural mosaic of architecture, shaped by influences from the likes of Emperor Akbar and the era of British colonial rule. Each building stands as a testament to the city's unique historical narrative. From being a significant center for influential Indian writers to serving as one of the four pilgrimage sites for the grand Kumbh Mela, Allahabad is a melting pot of tradition and excitement. It eagerly awaits travelers, ready to delight them with a myriad of experiences that encapsulate the richness of its cultural heritage.

Triveni Sangam

Embark on your day with a sunrise boat journey to the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. Witness devotees immersing themselves in the waters, engaging in the purifying ritual of moksha to cleanse their souls. Along the way, marvel at the majestic Allahabad Fort, a breathtaking structure commissioned by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, requiring over 45 years to complete.

Consider aligning your visit with the Maha Kumbh mela (every 12 years) or Ardh Kumbh mela (every six years), renowned as the largest human gathering globally—a spectacle said to be observable even from space.

Mankameshwar Temple

Perched on the banks of the Yamuna River in Allahabad, the Mankameshwar Temple holds profound religious significance as it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated in close proximity to the renowned Saraswati Ghat, a prominent bathing ghat in Allahabad, this temple stands under the jurisdiction of Jagath Guru Shankaracharya and is meticulously run and maintained by their authority.

The name "Mankameshwar" signifies the God who fulfills wishes, and the temple draws its name from a captivating legend. According to folklore, Sita, the consort of Lord Ram, expressed her desire to offer prayers to Lord Shiva after her ceremonial bath at the Sangam – the sacred confluence of the three holiest rivers in the country, namely Ganga, Saraswati, and Yamuna. In the absence of a nearby Lord Shiva temple, Lord Ram, in his devotion and love for his wife Sita, erected a new temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This act fulfilled Sita's earnest wish, giving rise to the temple's name, Mankameshwar. It is still believed that wishes made at this temple do not go unfulfilled.

Akbars Fort



Stroll along the Yamuna's banks to reach Allahabad Fort, commissioned by Akbar in 1583. The strategic placement of the fort near a significant religious site is evident, aimed at collecting a substantial pilgrimage tax. During the British rule in India, the East India Company seized the fort, utilizing it as the headquarters for their local army unit due to its advantageous location. Allahabad Fort stands as an architectural marvel with its formidable walls, gateways flanked by robust towers, and a captivating blend of Mughal artistry. Within its precincts lie vital Hindu artifacts and sites predating the fort itself. These include the Patalpuri Temple, a subterranean sanctuary, the renowned Akshaya Vata—a colossal banyan tree believed to confer immortality to those leaping from its branches—and the towering 10.7-meter Ashoka Pillar dating back to the third century Mauryan reign.

Chandrasekhar Azad Park



Enjoy a leisurely walk through Alfred Park, now known as Chandrasekhar Azad Park, in honor of the revolutionary freedom fighter who chose to end his life on its grounds rather than fall into the hands of British forces. Established in 1870 to commemorate Prince Alfred's visit to the city, this expansive 133-acre park features an array of flower beds, benches, towering trees, and charming gazebos. Additionally, within the park, you'll find the exquisite Allahabad Public Library, constructed in 1864 in the Scottish Baronial style. A haven for book enthusiasts, the library boasts over 125,000 books in Hindi, English, and Urdu, adorning its shelves. Furthermore, it houses a treasure trove of rare manuscript

The tomb of Prince Khusro



Just a short car ride away, you'll find Khusro Bagh, the resting place of Prince Khusro, Emperor Jahangir's son who took a challenging path. Many visitors are drawn to the tomb, captivated by the tragic tale of Khusro, a son who rebelled against his own father, endured the harsh punishment of blindness, and met his end at the hands of his own brother. Walking through the compound, you'll discover the tombs of his mother and sister, Nithar. Nithar's tomb stands out for its intricate details, boasting ceilings adorned with painted stars and walls adorned with floral decorations. The three-tiered sandstone tombs are surrounded by expansive orchards of guava and mango trees, creating a picturesque setting where children often engage in lively games of cricket. These mausoleums, crafted in the Mughal style, feature thick walls, projecting balconies (jaalis), and floral motifs delicately carved on their facade. Beyond the historical significance, Khusro Bagh offers a glimpse into the human stories and emotions that resonate within its walls.

Colonial Architecture

Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of British colonial architecture during a leisurely morning stroll. Saunter past the churches, halls, and public buildings that tell stories of a bygone era. Take a casual wander through the historic grounds of Allahabad University, a reputed institution established in 1887. Be sure to appreciate the unique charm of Muir College, a masterpiece designed by William Emerson, the creative mind behind Kolkata's iconic Victoria Memorial. Marvel at its fusion of architectural styles that stand as a testament to a rich cultural blend.

Next, venture to the gothic All Saints Cathedral, an awe-inspiring structure crafted from cream-colored stone and sandstone in the late 19th century. Admire the alabaster pulpit, rumored to reflect the style of Canterbury Cathedral. This cathedral not only echoes history but also emanates a serene beauty.

Anand Bhavan



Immerse yourself in cultural richness at Anand Bhavan, the ancestral mansion of the Nehru family. This stately home, adorned with pillared wraparound verandas and lofty ceilings, has been transformed into a museum, enveloped by meticulously landscaped lawns and frequented by history enthusiasts. Embark on a guided tour through the interiors, where tapestries, antique mahogany and teak furniture, and a well-stocked library await your exploration. Each room within Anand Bhavan holds treasures, from monogrammed China to Venetian glassware, creating an atmosphere of opulence. Beyond the beauty of its belongings, visitors can peer into rooms that once hosted numerous Congress meetings, a space where political leaders and activists shaped the course of history.

Adjacent to Anand Bhavan stands Swaraj Bhavan, the birthplace of Indira Gandhi. This abode is a treasure trove of memorabilia, featuring artifacts such as Mahatma Gandhi's charkha and photographs documenting the Freedom Movement. Both Anand Bhavan and Swaraj Bhavan offer not only a glimpse into the family's personal history but also a deeper understanding of India's political and cultural evolution.

Allahabad, with its rich tapestry of religious and historical sites, offers a unique pilgrimage experience that transcends boundaries and bridges the gap between the ancient and the contemporary. The city's religious spots, each with its own significance and charm, attract pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers from around the world. Whether it's the divine confluence at Triveni Sangam, the historical allure of Allahabad Fort, or the peaceful ambiance of Khusro Bagh, Allahabad beckons visitors to explore the sacred and the sublime in equal measure.