Overview
Allahabad: The Sangam City
Spreading their wings for a long flight from Siberia, crossing the bounds of Afghanistan and Central Asia, these Siberian birds finally reach the confluence of three rivers in Allahabad.
An arresting portrait is created as these birds flock near the river shore—some perched on boats as if ready for another journey, travellers feeding them, and in return, these tiny creatures accompanying travellers during their boat rides. This beautiful scene belongs to the city of Allahabad.
Allahabad, a religious pilgrimage destination, is located in Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the largest cities in the state and is also known by names like Prayag, Abode of the Gods, and the Sangam City. Coincidentally, 7 out of India’s 14 Prime Ministers have connections with Allahabad, giving it yet another sobriquet—the City of Prime Ministers.
Travel to Allahabad to enjoy its splendid forts and gardens, take a boat ride in the holy waters of the Sangam where the colours of the rivers mingle yet retain their individuality, feed the black-headed gulls that accompany you, and explore the diversity of Indian Tourism.
Mythological references indicate that Lord Brahma offered his first sacrifice here after creating the world. History suggests that Allahabad was once part of the Mauryan Empire, Gupta Empire in the east, and the Kushan Empire in the west. Later, it became a part of the Kannauj Empire.
If you are a religious traveller, you can attend the morning Aarti performed on the riverfront. Enjoy a boat ride and witness a stunning sunrise with devotees half-immersed in the water offering prayers to the Sun God. Also, do not miss the classical musical concerts organised here every winter, soothing the soul with their melodies.
Following are the main travel attractions of Allahabad
Triveni Sangam
Regarded as one of the holiest places in India for Hindus, Triveni Sangam is the
meeting point of three rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible subterranean
Saraswati. Taking a dip in the holy waters is believed to grant liberation and moksha.
The sacred Kumbh Mela is held on the banks of the Sangam every 12 years,
attracting pilgrims from across the globe. Migratory birds also flock here after
long journeys.
Khusro Bagh
This is a Mughal garden situated close to Allahabad Junction. Enclosed by high
walls, the garden houses the mausoleums of Khusrau Mirza, the eldest
son of Emperor Jahangir, his mother Shah Begum, and
Princess Sultan Nithar Begam.
Khusrau Mirza was imprisoned in this garden after rebelling against his father
in 1606. His tomb was completed in 1622.
Allahabad Fort
This is the largest fort built by Emperor Akbar in 1583. Today, it is occupied by the
Indian Army, and only limited portions are open to tourists. It is marked as a
monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Located at the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna, the fort has three grand gateways,
flanking towers, and a 7m high wall. The fort also houses a 10m tall Ashoka Pillar
with inscriptions dating back to 232 BC.
Allahabad Museum
One of India's national-level museums, it began in 1931 with a small collection
of birds and animals. Its foundation was laid by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1947,
and it was completed in 1952.
The museum now has an excellent collection of sculptures, terracotta artefacts,
bronze seals, coins, antiques, and more, displayed across 18 galleries.
Excursions from Allahabad
Jhusi (9km), Shringverpur (40km), Kaushambi (56km), and
Varanasi (121km) are some of the must-visit destinations included in the
Allahabad Travel Guide.
Shopping in Allahabad
Brass idols, religious books, ethnic wear, artefacts, and traditional jewellery
are popular items to buy here.
Small brass pots filled with sacred Ganges water and sealed with wax make excellent souvenirs. Mangoes and guavas from the region are also highly popular.
When to Reach
October to March is the best time to visit due to pleasant weather.
Magh Mela (January), also known as the Mini Kumbh Mela, is another
popular time to visit.
How to Reach
Air: Bamrauli Airport (10km) connects the city to Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
Rail: Allahabad Junction is a major railhead linked to major Indian cities.
Road: Buses connect Allahabad to Delhi, Gwalior, Kanpur, Lucknow, and Varanasi.
So, travel to Allahabad and explore the hidden charm of this city, woven with history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
