Places to visit in Prayagraj

• Allahabad Fort or Akbar Fort: Built by Emperor Akbar in 1583, the fort stands as the testimony of history on the banks of Yamuna. It is a massive fort built by the mighty emperor and known for its construction, design and artistry. Within the fort, you must see the Ashoka Pillar that dates back to the 3^rd century, the Zenana Palace and Saraswati Koop that is said to be the source of the Saraswati river. There is also a Patalpuri temple and Akshayvat tree, which have their relevance. Presently, the army uses a significant part of the fort, and only a limited portion is open for visitors.
• Kumbh Mela: If you are visiting Prayagraj, you should try to visit during Kumbh Mela (at least once) to experience a gamut of faith. It is the largest peaceful gathering of pilgrims on earth, attended by almost 100 million people. With rich religious significance among Hindus, Kumbh Mela is held at one of the four venues Prayagraj, Nasik, Haridwar and Ujjain after every 12 years. Every year a smaller version of the fair known as Magh Mela is organised during the Hindu month of Magha (January or February). Apart from pilgrims, lots of photographers from across the world visit the fair to capture its essence. It is advised to book camps or hotels in advance to attend the Mela.
• Khusro Bagh: This walled garden called Khusro Bagh is another top tourist spot. It has a great historical significance as the garden houses four crucial Mughal tombs. These belong to Prince Khusro, Emperor Jahangir’s son, Khusro’s mother Shah Begum, sister Nesa Begum and Jahangir’s first wife, Princess Sultan Nithar Begam. All the tombs are excellent examples of Mughal arts and architecture adorned with beautiful stone carvings and designs that tend to keep you awestruck.
• All Saints Cathedral: All Saints Cathedral or Patthar Girja is another must-visit place in the city from the colonial era. It was designed by British architect, William Emerson who also designed Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. Known as the most beautiful structure in Prayagraj, this cathedral features Gothic architecture covered in red sandstone and white stone. However, the interiors are more beautiful than the exterior of the building.
• Chandra Shekhar Azad Park or Alfred Park: It is the largest park in the city and holds an essential place in history. During the British era, the park was the site for official ceremonies. But it became popular at the time of Indian Freedom Struggle due to the famous encounter between Indian revolutionaries and British police. This park was the place where Chandra Shekhar Azad shot himself rather than surrendering to the British police.
• Anand Bhawan: If you want to know more about the Indian Freedom Struggle then you a visit to Anand Bhawan is a must. It is the ancestral home of the Nehru family, and Indira Gandhi donated it to the Indian Government in 1970 and converted into a museum as per her order. The entire place is quite interesting as you get to see several items from the past such as the Nehru family’s possessions, family photographs and personal correspondence. You must have a look at Nehru’s bedroom and study along with a room where Mahatma Gandhi use to stay

High-end shopping/luxury shopping/shopping malls in Prayagraj

• Atlantis Mall
• P Square Mall
• Vinayak City Centre

Street shopping in Prayagraj

You must buy items used for religious purposes such as sandalwood, incense stick, beads, vermilion and camphor from Prayagraj. Besides, you can also indulge in buying books, especially philosophy and spiritualism, as Prayagraj book publishers are very popular. Chowk, Katra and Civil Lines are the major shopping areas in the city. Besides, chikankari garments, mojri shoes, brass lamps should also be included on your shopping list.

• Chowk:It’s a name of a locality having cultural and historical importance. The main attraction for the tourist here is the age-old bazaar selling everything, starting from exotic spices, sweets, ethnic wear and handicrafts.

• Katra:A heaven for shopaholics, this marketplace offers all sorts and range of products, be it locally-made handicrafts or the items in the showroom or any international brand products.

• Civil Lines: Known as Prayagraj’s central business district, it’s a modern, posh and developed region with well-planned roads and high-rise buildings. Therefore, here you can splurge on products from multinational manufacturers to international brands. Civil Lines also has stores selling ethnic products and handicrafts. This contrast makes the locality unique and a must-stop for everyone.

Triveni Sangam

Your trip to Prayagraj is incomplete if you don’t take a dip in Triveni Sangam that refers to the confluence of the three sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. Also, this is the place where the Kumbh Mela and Magh Mela takes place. You will be amazed to see how the three rivers maintain their identities in their different colours. Ganga water being clear, Yamuna water is green in colour, and Saraswati makes its presence felt underwater. Also, do take a boat ride in the evening at Sangam to experience the natural glory of the city.

If you think Prayagraj is only about spirituality, ghats and mela, then it’s time to change the perception a bit. Boat Club, Prayagraj Development Authority organises water sports and provides equipment for an array of water sports on the Yamuna, that includes kayaking, canoeing, parasailing, water snookering, yachting boat, single cylinder shallow water driving, joy-rafting with inflatable rubber boat as well as water-scootering facilities. So, if you don’t want to experience the religious aspect of the city, go on exploring the adventurous side.

Ganga Aarti

By sunset, the Ghats in Prayagraj come alive with holy chants and aarti, a regular ritual on the banks of River Ganga. The Ganga Aarti is a spectacular view to watch while getting yourself immersed in the holy spirits of the city.

Dussehra

This is another time to visit the vibrant city. During Dussehra, you can enjoy ‘Ramleela’ in every corner of the city. You must watch Ramleela organised by Pattharchatti and Pajawa committee, and ‘Kali Dance’ at Daraganj. Amidst of all these, you can also witness Durga Puja celebrated by the Bengali community. Puja pandals of Jagat Taran college and Darbhanga colony are the best ones that showcase excellent craftsmanship.