A quick guide on Prayagraj
More popularly known as Allahabad, Prayagraj is the official name of this city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Prayagraj is an old city with a rich heritage and dates back to much before the Mughal Empire in India. Today this illustrious city is home to the judicial capital of this state, namely the Allahabad High Court. This city even served as the capital of India for a mere 24 hours and is of great significance to the Struggle for Indian Independence. Prayagraj has an aura that oozes its cultural and historical heritage, and is the third most liveable city in Uttar Pradesh. Located in Southern Uttar Pradesh, the economy of this city is greatly bolstered by tourism, yet it is also a major financial and real estate hub in the region.
Tourist highlights of Prayagraj
- Prayagraj Fort, Allahabad: Built in 1953 by the Mughal Emperor, Akbar, Prayagraj Fort is a ‘Monument of National Importance’ as designated by the Archaeological Society of India. This ancient fort provides important insights into the history of this region and is very popular with visitors to the city of Prayagraj.
- Anand Bhawan Museum: With a focus on the Nehru Family, Anand Bhavan Museum is of historic significance for its connection to the first Prime Minister of India. Once the local headquarters for the Indian National Congress, this museum also houses the Jawahar Planetarium which furthers public knowledge of astronomy.
- Khusro Bagh Prayagraj: Located close to Allahabad Junction Railway Station, this walled garden dates back to the time of the Mughal Empire. This is an ‘Indian Site of National Importance’ which draws many visitors to its beautiful gardens and ornate sandstone mausoleums from the Mughal era.
- Chandrashekhar Azad Park: Built in 1870 to commemorate Prince Albert’s visit to Prayagraj, this park is now aptly named after Chandrashekhar Azad, one of the country's foremost freedom fighters and a martyr in the struggle for independence from British colonial powers.
- The Allahabad Museum: This national-level museum in Prayagraj is dedicated to preserving and educating the public on a treasure trove of art and artifacts with relevance to astronomy, history, arts, and literature in India. The museum is located amidst the greenery of Chandrashekhar Azad Park and draws many visitors, all throughout the year.
- Triveni Sangam: Triveni Sangam is the confluence at which the three holy rivers, namely Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati meet. As such this is a site of significant religious symbolism and attracts many followers of the Hindu faith.
- Swaraj Bhawan: Once the property and residential home of Motilal Nehru, Swaraj Bhavan is now a museum with a focus on the Indian Freedom Struggle, and the family and legacy of the first Indian Prime Minister.
- Patalpuri Temple: Located inside the Prayagraj Fort, the Patalpuri Temple is a unique underground shrine under the shade of a sacred undying Banyan tree.
- Goddess Alopi Devi Shakti Peeth Temple: In close proximity to Triveni Sangam wherein all three holy rivers of India meet, the Goddess Alopi Devi Shakti Peeth Temple is unique for the fact that it is devoid of any deities, and a sacred wooden carriage is venerated instead.
- New Yamuna Bridge Naini: Constructed in 2004 to minimize traffic pressure on the Old Naini Bridge, the New Yamuna Bridge Naini is a cable-stayed bridge and contemporary architectural marvel that draws many visitors.
Airport Address: Prayagraj Airport, New Civil Terminal, ITBP Rd, near 18th ITBP Camp, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211012
IATA Code: IXD