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One of the most populated cities in Uttar Pradesh, Prayagraj is located in the state's central region. This historically significant site, once called Allahabad, lies at the meeting point of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Every twelve years, Prayagraj plays host to the magnificent Kumbh Mela, a religious event that draws millions of worshippers from all over the globe. So if you are coming for Kumbh Mela, you have to visit these weekend getaways near Allahabad! Its location is ideal since it is close to the intersection of the Indo-Gangetic plain and the Vindhya Mountains in the Doab area, so the places to visit near Prayagraj are scenic and culturally rich! If you're a city dweller in search of tourist places near Prayagraj, here are the best places to consider.
Ayodhya
For Hindus, Ayodhya ranks high among the holy pilgrimage cities and is one of the best weekend getaways near Allahabad! Travellers with a spiritual bent will find plenty to their liking in Ayodhya. Notable temples include the Chakra Harji Vishnu Temple and the Nageshwarnath Temple, the latter of which is said to have been constructed by Kush, the son of Rama. It is one of the best tourist places near Prayagraj!
The Indian government erected the Tulsi Smarak Bhawan to honour the life and work of Ramayana rewriter Tulsidas. When the Babri Masjid was demolished in 1992, it was at Ram Janmabhoomi. There are golden-crowned statues of Ram and Sita in the Kanak Bhawan. Another impressive edifice is the Hanuman Garhi, which resembles a fort with four sides and round bastions on each corner. Lord Rama's father, King Dasrath, is linked to the Dasrath Bhavan. They say that Lord Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yagna at Treta Ke Thakur. You may find Sita Ki Rasoi close to the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.
Legend has it that Sita prepared Rama's first dinner after they were married. Stop by the bathing ghats at Ram Ki Paidi on the Sarayu River as well. The Mani Parbat, a former Buddhist vihara that is now a Hindu shrine, is another example. Fantastic city vistas are yours to take when you visit Ram Janmabhoomi!
Bodh Gaya
One of the best tourist places near Prayagraj, Bodh Gaya is a hamlet in the Indian state of Bihar that is home to one of the holiest shrines in Buddhism. According to legend, Gautama Buddha became enlightened beneath the Bodhi tree. Around the clock, you may witness pilgrims paying their respects at the many temples, monasteries, and shrines in this area. Many people go to Bodh Gaya from all over the world to see the Bodhi tree, the Mahabodhi Temple, and the majestic Buddha statue. It is one of the best tourist places near Prayagraj!
Kaushambi
Many pilgrims and history buffs visit Kaushambi, which is about 50 km from Prayagraj. one of the best weekend getaways near Allahabad! The Ghositaram monastery was built on top of an ancient Buddhist monument. Here at this monastery, legend has it that the Buddha himself resided while on a royal mission from King Udayana of the Vatsa kingdom.
Legend has it that he preached to his followers here throughout the sixth and ninth years after his enlightenment. Ancient forts, stupas, and sculptures make up Kaushambi's Buddhist artefacts. The city is also heavily mentioned in the travelogue of Fa-Hien, a Chinese traveller who aimed to discover its Buddhist origins.
Once you've had enough of the ruins, explore the Kaushambi settlements of Kasiya and Bharwari. On your tour, don't miss the Jain temple of Prabhosa and the Stheela Temple at Kara Dham, making this one of the best tourist places near Prayagraj!
Varanasi
Tourists are both enchanted and surprised by Varanasi, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, one of the best weekend getaways Allahabad has! This sacred city in Hinduism is known by many names, including Benaras, Kashi (City of Life), and the spiritual capital of India. Spread out across a maze of small lanes called galis, the ancient city of Varanasi stands along the western banks of the Ganges. Be ready to explore on foot and meet some sacred cows as you navigate this maze, one of the best tourist places near Prayagraj!
Chitrakoot
Overlooking the Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh districts of Chitrakoot and Satna, respectively, lies the little town of Chitrakoot, which is situated in the north Vindhyan range, one of the best places to visit near Prayagraj. The epic Ramayana and Hindu mythology both place a high value on it. According to legend, Chitrakoot was the dwelling location of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana during eleven and a half of their fourteen years of exile, making it a revered spot for devotees. It is one of the holiest and best tourist places near Prayagraj!
While this weekend getaway from Allahabad also has a waterfall, it must not be confused with the Chitrakoot Waterfalls in Chattisgarh. The waterfall in Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh is called Shabri Falls, further signifying the importance of the place in the epic Ramayana.
Sohagi Padvat
Situated in Madhya Pradesh's Sahijwar district, around 60 kilometres from Prayagraj, this hill station in the Vindhya Range has breathtaking scenery, verdant woods, and glistening waterfalls, and one of the best places to visit near Prayagraj. It is a captivating spot where people can enjoy a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city while taking advantage of the nice weather, refreshing breezes, and breathtaking sunsets.
Trekking, hiking, birding, rock climbing, and nature walks are just a few of the adventurous activities that may be enjoyed at Sohagi Pahad. The months of October through March are ideal for a visit because of the mild weather. The months of April through June are the best for seeing beautiful gardens.