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Lying along the banks of River Yamuna is the city of Prayagraj (earlier known as Allahabad). This city houses Allahabad Fort, one magnificent structure which Emperor Akbar commissioned and built in the year 1583. It is a spacious fort constructed beautifully and served as an important combat structure during the period of the Mughals. Visitors can appreciate the glory of the Mughal Age from the big high walls, lofty bastions, and splendid arches.
Location
Photo: Mayank Veer Singh / Wikimedia Commons
Allahabad Fort, built by Akbar, is located in Prayagraj now in Uttar Pradesh, India. It stands on the banks of the Yamuna River in an elegantly rich historical site. The fort, although built by Akbar, has the architectural and cultural significance of the region surrounding it. Its geographical location next to the sacred rivers of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati makes it one of the well-known attractions in the region as well. Such a massive structure with massive gates provides a breathtaking and highly entertaining experience for both history buffs and laymen.
How To Reach Allahabad Fort
Photo: Apurv013 / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Allahabad Fort is situated at a distance of 5 km from Prayagraj city. The drive is interesting as on the way you can find many glimpses of the calm Yamuna river and the beautiful city. There are local buses and auto-rickshaws from all the major areas of Prayagraj to Allahabad Fort. There are also car rental services for travellers who have finished at the fort and want to tour other sites in Prayagraj.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Prayagraj Junction. You can reach the fort from there by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
By Air: Prayagraj Airport is the nearest airport to the Allahabad fort.
Places To Visit In And Around Allahabad Fort
Here are the best places to visit near Allahabad Fort to add more experiences to your trip:
1. Patalpuri Temple
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
Located inside the Allahabad Fort is this unique subterranean temple which worships Lord Rama called as the Patalpuri temple. The calmness and the history associated with the temple draws many devotees and travellers. The temple, adorned with beautiful sculptured walls, is built adjacent to the Akshaya Vat tree estimated to be eternal. Tourists can enjoy this peaceful area contemplating its cultural value and then become introspective in prayer.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Anand Bhavan
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Anand Bhawan is a museum dedicated to the Nehru-Gandhi family’s ancestral house. This is situated about 3 kilometres away from the Allahabad Fort. It contains relics, images and papers concerning the Indian struggle for independence. Visitors are able to see clean and well-kept rooms and gardens related to the family whose members contributed so much to the country and its culture.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults
3. Triveni Sangam
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Situated around 5 kilometres from Allahabad Fort, Triveni Sangam refers to the holy meeting point of three rivers namely Ganga, Yamuna and mythological river Saraswati. Triveni Sangam is an important pilgrimage centre, notably in the Kumbh Mela season. One can reach the confluence by a boat where one can see some traditional practices and enjoy the quiet and tranquil atmosphere. The calm waters here along with the nearby ghats serve as an excellent place for introspection and peace.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
4. Khusro Bagh
Photo: Harshgupta28 / Wikimedia Commons
Khusro Bagh is situated approximately 4 km from the Allahabad Fort. It is a beautiful garden and tomb dedicated to Khusro, son of Emperor Jahangir. This garden has beautiful Mughal architecture in the form of tombs and greenery. One can walk about in the beautifully designed areas, enjoying the calm and appreciating the diverse patterns of art laid out in this peaceful place. It is a great place to spend a quiet afternoon surrounded by trees and history.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Minto Park
Photo: Matti Blume / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Standing at a distance of around three kilometres from the Allahabad Fort, Minto Park is another tourist spot. It was constructed to mark the first session of the Indian National Congress. The park is well-decorated with footpaths, gardens as well as shrines. This place is ideal for rest, celebrations, and family get-togethers for the visitors. The park, in addition, serves its purpose in the history of the region as well as offers space for recreation for people living there and tourists alike.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Lodging in and around the Allahabad Fort for a comfortable length of stay will be a good choice. Hotel Kanha Shyam and Hotel Aloha are among churned hotels that are booked out for comfortable rooms with good services. Most of the hotels come with the basic services like free internet, breakfast, and transport services to enable exploration of the historical sites conveniently. In addition, some of the hotels provide services for arranged sightseeing tours of the cultural and historical attractions available in Allahabad.
Where To Eat
Photo: Shuklaashutoshin / Wikimedia Commons
Taste the local cuisine at the restaurants located around Allahabad Fort. The surrounding area contains numerous restaurants offering different types of food. Prakash Ki Puri is famous for its rich delicious aloo puris as well as sweet lassi. Kashi Chat Bhandar is equipped with a few types of street food such as chaat and samosa. The Breakfast Story is another option, with a longer menu that includes both Indian and continental food, ideal for lunch or dinner. Further, there are also local mithai shops around the area for those who would love to have some distinctive sweets after their meals.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Oo91 / Wikimedia Commons
The most recommendable time to be at the Allahabad Fort is in the range from October to March. This is the period when the climate is cooler which makes it convenient for touring purposes.
Average Cost Of The Trip: The average expense for a trip to Allahabad Fort including journey, stay and meals is expected to be between ₹1500 to ₹3500 per head.
Tips For Travellers:
- Since the fort tends to have a walk and some stair climbing, it is important to make sure that you have appropriate shoes.
- Make sure you have water and snacks as they are likely to get exhausted during the long tour.
- Try to schedule your visit early in the morning, since you will get to see and enjoy the place without many people around.
- Consider the local practices especially in places of worship that will be situated a little distance from the site.
Allahabad fort is an artistic marvel of the Mughal age. It is built on the banks of the holy confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers. This site is more than a fort as it depicts the spirituality and history of the place. The gigantic walls of the fort are drenched with some sculptures and the surrounding ambience makes it heaven for History and pilgrimage seekers. To ensure a hassle-free and fun trip to this historical paradise, make sure to strategize with Trip XL to make your journey worth the while!
Cover Photo: Oo91 / Wikimedia Commons
