Though Prayag has been in existence for ages, the name Allahabad was given by the great Mughal emperor, Akbar. Realizing the strategic position of Allahabad, emperor Akbar built a magnificent fort on the banks of the holy Sangam. During the British period too, Allahabad remained an important center, which is reflected in the remnants of the colonial architecture. Allahabad has remained on the National forefront all the times, more importantly, during the Indian independence struggle. Allahabad, with its religious, cultural and historical traditions, has produced several renowned scholars, poets, writers, thinkers, statesmen and freedom fighters.
Place To Visit
Sangam
Sangam is the place where River Ganga and Yamuna merge with the mythological river, Saraswati. Sangam is around 7 km from the heart of Allahabad. The eastern ramparts of the Allahabad fort overlook Sangam. The holy Sangam is the site for Annual Magha Mela/Ardh Kumbh/Kumbh Mela. It is during the Kumbh/Ardh Kumbh that the Sangam truly comes alive, attracting millions of devotees from all over the country.
Kumbh Mela
According to legends, Lord Vishnu was carrying a Kumbh (pot) of amrita (nectar), when a scuffle broke out between the Gods and demons, four drops spilled on Earth. The nectar drops fell at Prayag, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain (venues of Kumbha Mela). The event is commemorated every three years by the Kumbh Mela, held at each of these four places in turn; the Sangam is known as Tirtharaja, the "King of Tirthas", and the Kumbha Mela, once every twelve years, is the greatest and holiest of all.
Allahabad Fort
The Mughal emperor, Akbar, built the Allahabad fort. The fort stands on the banks of the Yamuna near the confluence site. This huge, majestic fort has three magnificent galleries flanked by high towers. Presently, the army uses the Allahabad fort and only a limited area is open to visitors. The magnificent outer wall is intact and rises above the water' edge. The main attractions at the fort are the Ashokan Pillar, Patalpuri temple, Akshaya Vat, Jodhabai Palace and Saraswati Kup, a well, said to be the source of the Saraswati River.
Patalpuri Temple
The Patalpuri temple is located inside the Allahabad fort. Within the Patalpuri temple lays the Akshaya Vat - or the immortal tree. It is believed that Lord Rama visited the Patalpuri temple. The famous Chinese pilgrim and traveler, Hiuen Tsang also visited the Patalpuri temple.
Ashoka Pillar
This pillar was originally erected in the 3rd century BC by the Mauryan emperor, Ashoka. The Mughal emperor, Akbar, moved the Ashoka pillar to the Allahabad Fort, in 1583. The Ashoka pillar is made of polished stone and extends 10.7 m in height with an Ashokan edict inscribed over it.
Akshaya Vat
The Akshaya Vat (literally means immortal banyan tree) is located within the Patalauri temple, inside the Allahabad fort. It is mentioned in the description of several ancient scriptures, writers and historians.