🇮🇳 Prayagraj (Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh – Destination Guide

Overview:
Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) is one of India’s holiest and historically rich cities. Known for the confluence of three sacred rivers — Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati — this city is the site of the Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering. Prayagraj is also steeped in political and literary history, serving as the home of many freedom fighters and poets. It offers a powerful spiritual, cultural, and historical experience for every traveler.

🏞️ Top Attractions:

• 🕉️ Triveni Sangam – The sacred confluence where pilgrims take holy dips; boat rides available for closer access.

• 🏰 Allahabad Fort – Built by Akbar in the 16th century, it overlooks the Sangam and holds the mysterious Ashoka Pillar and Patalpuri Temple.

• 🕍 Anand Bhavan – The ancestral home of the Nehru family and now a museum dedicated to India’s independence movement.

• ⛪ All Saints Cathedral – A stunning Gothic church built in the 19th century.

• 🌸 Khusro Bagh – A Mughal garden and tomb complex with beautiful sandstone architecture.

• 📚 Swaraj Bhawan – Where Indira Gandhi was born; showcases important political artifacts.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit:

October to March – Pleasant winter weather and perfect for outdoor sightseeing. Avoid summer due to intense heat.

🙏 Key Spiritual Events:

• Kumbh Mela & Ardh Kumbh (every 6 & 12 years): Largest gathering of pilgrims for ritual bathing.

• Magh Mela (annually in January-February): Month-long spiritual fair at Sangam.

🍛 What to Eat in Prayagraj:

• Chaat at Loknath Market – Famous for tangy and spicy street food.

• Lassi and Rabri – Try from local sweet shops around Civil Lines.

• Baati Chokha – A traditional meal found in many local eateries.

• Kachori-Sabzi – Popular breakfast item served with jalebi.

🏨 Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Kashi Hotel, Kanha Shyam Hotel

• Mid-Range: Hotel Milan Palace, Hotel Polo Max

• Budget: Local guesthouses around Civil Lines and near Sangam

🚉 How to Reach:

• By Air: Prayagraj Airport (IXD) – well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore.

• By Train: Major railway junction with excellent connections across India.

• By Road: Connected via NH-2 and NH-30 to Varanasi, Lucknow, and Kanpur.

💡 Travel Tips:

• Visit the Sangam early morning for a serene boat ride and spiritual energy.

• Respect local customs, especially during Mela season — it gets crowded, plan accordingly.

• If traveling during festivals, book hotels in advance.

• Dress modestly around religious sites.