Maha Kumbh 2025: A Pilgrim's Guide To Exploring Prayagraj

Prayagraj, Allahabad, Illahabad, Sangam Nagri, Kumbh Nagri - as Shakespeare rightly wrote, ‘A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.’ The city, located in Uttar Pradesh, is famous for myriad reasons. It is the meeting place of three holy rivers (Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati) giving it the epithet of Sangam Nagri. Allahabad is also the birthplace of India’s first two Prime Ministers, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri. However, its legacy is most synonymous with Kumbh Mela, the greatest spiritual celebration in this tirth (a place where one can attain salvation), which brings crores of devotees to the shores of Prayagraj once every 12 years.

If you're planning to attend this event, now is the perfect time to book your tickets and start planning your itinerary. Beyond the sacred Sangam where the three holy rivers meet, Prayagraj has several fascinating historical and religious sites that can add depth to your spiritual journey: Triveni SangamThe Triveni Sangam is the heart of the Maha Kumbh Mela and is considered one of the most sacred confluences in India. It is said that Saraswati, the mythological river mentioned in the Vedas, flows under the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna here. Hence, taking a dip here during Kumbh Mela is believed to cleanse your soul of past sins. However, it is very chaotic here during the festival, but you can try to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Allahabad Fort And AkshayavatBuilt by Emperor Akbar in 1583, the Allahabad Fort (also called Akbar Fort) is located at the banks of Yamuna River and is said to be the largest fort built by the Mughal emperor. While it was once unparalleled in its construction, it is under the control of the Indian Army now, with a very limited area open to travellers. Inside, you can see Zenana, Jodhabai Palace and the 3rd century BC Ashoka Pillar and Saraswati Koop, a well under which Saraswati River is believed to flow. Another important and famous site inside the fort is the Akshayavat, an ancient Banyan Tree that is believed to be immortal. It is said Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman rested under the shade of this tree; other legends talk about how all efforts to destroy this tree were fruitless.

Anand BhavanThis sprawling mansion was once the residence of the Nehru family, and has now been converted into a museum showcasing artefacts, photographs, and documents related to India’s struggle for independence. Swaraj Bhavan, the former residence of Nehrus is located nearby and was later transformed into the Indian National Congress’ headquarters, paving way for the construction of Anand Bhavan.

Khusro BaghOne of the most famous tourist spots in the city, Khusro Bagh is a beautiful Mughal garden enclosing the tombs of Emperor Jahangir’s family members, including his eldest son Prince Khusro, his mother Sultan Begum, and his sister Nithar. The beautifully crafted mausoleums are adorned with intricate Mughal architecture and carvings are believed to be some of the best in India.

Chandra Shekhar Azad Park (Alfred Park)A quiet, 133-acre park in Prayagraj's Civil Lines, it was here, on February 27, 1931, that the fiery young revolutionary Chandra Shekhar Azad, aged just 24, made his last stand against British colonial rule. A fierce gun battle ensued which led to the death of Azad, marked the tragic end of a life dedicated to India's freedom. Also Read: Alopi Devi TempleThis shakti peeth is very unique since the temple houses no idol but simply a cradle. According to legends, this temple marks the spot where Sati’s right hand fell and disappeared. Since it was the last body part to fall and vanish, the deity here is called Alopi (disappearing) devi. This temple attracts devotees year-round, and it becomes even more vibrant during the Kumbh festivities.