Maha Kumbh Mela is just around the corner, scheduled from January 13 to February 26, which comes every 12 years to celebrate the completion of the revolution of Jupiter. But do you know that the upcoming Maha Kumbh is even more fascinating and significant? Why? The places and timings of Kumbh Mela depend on the position of celestial bodies like the Sun, Moon and Jupiter. This year's Kumbh Mela is one of the most unique occurrences in the universe which is subject to dictates of rare celestial conjunctions and occurs once in 144 years!
We hope that you plan to participate in the world’s largest religious congregation, Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj. If the answer is yes, then you must also check out some places to visit in Prayagraj other than Triveni Sangam to make your visit extraordinarily propitious.
Have a look at this list, combining the sacred sites with some iconic attractions of Prayagraj —
1. Allahabad Fort
If the grand structures are what you're looking for head off to Allahabad Fort. This magnificent fort is something you'd get top on every Prayagraj travel guide and paying a visit here is really worth it. Standing on the banks of river Yamuna, near the confluence site, this massive mediaeval structure was built by one of the great Mughal emperors, Akbar. There are three big galleries flanked by high towers. The fort, at its zenith, is a paragon of design, construction and craftsmanship unrivalled by any other. But, only a limited area is open to visitors and the rest is used by the army. The best part is, as it lies near the confluence, you can easily explore this spectacular structure as you come to the confluence for the Mahakumbh.
2. Akshayavat Temple
Wait, you don't need to go anywhere to visit this next spot, as it lies in the Allahabad fort itself. Paying a visit to Akshayavat Temple is considered very auspicious after you have taken a holy dip into the Sangam. This is one of the most prominent and must visit places in Prayagraj for pilgrims as well as tourists. It derives its name from the Akshaya Vata tree ( immortal Banyan tree) within its premises, which is idolatrous by devotees as a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. According to mythology, the tree is immortal and can never be destroyed and is believed to be over 3000 years old. It is also believed that Lord Rama visited this place during his exile along with Goddess Sita and Lakshmana and prayed under the Akshayavat tree for the triumph over Ravana, this makes it even more spiritual. From then on, people also pray under this holy tree to fulfil their wishes. As you visit inside the temple you'll come across the idols of many key Hindu Gods, praying here has an immense religious significance for Hindus. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best holy places to visit in Prayagraj and also comes at the top among the Prayagraj famous places.
3. Anand Bhawan
Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking some best places to visit in Prayagraj, Anand Bhawan is worth being in your list. This was the ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family, one of the most popular political dynasties in India. The first Prime Minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru has lived here for many years along with his family. Then, the third Prime Minister of India, the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru donated this mansion to the Government of India in 1970 to preserve its historical legacy. Why is it so significant to Indian history? Because it served as the centre for the Indian freedom movement and hosted many iconic Indian political figures including Mahatma Gandhi. Presently, it has been converted into a museum, showcasing personal effects, photographs, letters, documents and books of the Nehru-Gandhi family and Indian freedom struggle. This comes among the must visit places in Prayagraj, especially if you're fascinated by historical controversies.
4. Chandrashekhar Azad Park
When you're done with holy places to visit in Prayagraj, take some time to relax at Chandrashekhar Azad Park, the biggest public park in Prayagraj. Other than being one of the best places to visit in Prayagraj to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is historically significant too. Named after the legendary freedom fighter, Chandrashekhar Azad who fought valiantly against the British forces. This was the last stand of Chandrashekhar Azad, as he chose to shoot himself rather than be captured by the Britishers. Pay a tribute to this famous revolutionary and take strolls admiring the lush surroundings. Plus, this is one of the best places to see in Prayagraj with family giving you a perfect ambience and space for picnics. Furthermore, there is also a renowned museum, known as Allahabad Museum, one of the must visit places in Prayagraj. It was reopened with the efforts of Jawaharlal Nehru in 1931 then it only had a modest collection of birds and animal models but now it boasts a plethora of paintings, artefacts, sculptures, and coins, from as old as medieval times to the testaments of India’s Freedom Struggle.
5. All Saints Cathedral
Situated at a very strategic location, at the crossing of the two most prominent roads of Prayagraj i.e. SN Marg and MG Marg, stands a remarkable example of the architecture of colonial India, All Saints Cathedral. Designed by the same architect who designed Victoria Memorial, Kolkata, Sir William Emerson, it is a United Protestant cathedral that belongs to the Church of North India. You can admire the Gothic facade and the ornate glass and marble work of the cathedral, perfectly preserved even after more than 125 years!
So, when you're seeking some best places to visit in Prayagraj, don't miss to bookmark this 19th-century masterpiece.
6. Mankameshwar temple
Located near the Triveni Sangam, Mankameshwar temple comes among the must visit places in Prayagraj. The word Mankameshwar means ‘the fulfiller of desires’, it is believed that if you pray here after taking a holy dip in Sangam, your wish will be fulfilled by Lord Shiva. What makes it more significant is the legend behind this temple. The legend states that, once Goddess Sita took a dip in the Sangam, then, she urged to worship Lord Shiva. But there was no shrine nearby so Lord Rama, husband of Goddess Sita, made the shivling himself ( a representation of Lord Shiva). Now, if you plan to visit Prayagraj during Mahakumbh don't forget to pay a visit to this sacred temple of Lord Shiva that comes among the top holy places to visit in Prayagraj.