Monuments in Prayagraj
Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is one of India’s most ancient and sacred cities. Revered for its spiritual legacy and mythological roots, it is also a city steeped in royal, colonial, and revolutionary history. Nestled at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, Prayagraj is dotted with magnificent forts, colonial edifices, temples, and heritage monuments that speak of its glorious past.
From the Mughal splendor of Allahabad Fort to the colonial charm of British-built landmarks, every monument in Prayagraj tells a tale of transformation through centuries. Here is a comprehensive guide to the most iconic forts and monuments in Prayagraj that every traveler, pilgrim, or history enthusiast must explore.
Monuments in Prayagraj
Allahabad Fort: Akbar’s Grand Legacy on the Sangam
Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1583, the Allahabad Fort is the largest of its kind built by him. Strategically located at the sacred Triveni Sangam, this fort was both a military garrison and a symbol of imperial might.
- Architectural Highlights: Majestic gateways, high bastions, Mughal arches, secret tunnels, and watchtowers.
- Mythological Importance: Houses the Patalpuri Temple and the Akshaya Vat, the immortal banyan tree believed to grant moksha.
- Today’s Status: Partly occupied by the Indian Army; tourists can access certain sections during events like Kumbh Mela.
Don’t Miss: The aerial view of the confluence from the ramparts, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Khusro Bagh: Mughal Elegance Amidst Gardens
Located near Prayagraj Junction, Khusro Bagh is a 17th-century Mughal-style garden complex that serves as the resting place of royal figures from Akbar’s lineage.
- Tombs: Mausoleums of Prince Khusro, Shah Begum (his mother), and Nithar Begum (his sister).
- Architecture: Intricately carved sandstone structures, arched entrances, Persian inscriptions, and beautiful floral motifs.
- Historical Significance: A site of political intrigue, where Prince Khusro was imprisoned by his father, Emperor Jahangir.
Pro Tip: Visit during early morning hours to enjoy the quietude and architectural photography.
All Saints’ Cathedral: Gothic Grandeur in the Heart of the City
Also known as Patthar Girja, this imposing church is among the finest Anglican cathedrals in Asia. Designed by Sir William Emerson, who also designed the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, it reflects Victorian Gothic Revival architecture.
- Built In: 1871–1891
- Features: Towering spires, stained-glass windows, marble altars, and intricate carvings.
- Location: Situated at the intersection of M.G. Road and Sarojini Naidu Marg.
A Must-See: The serene ambiance inside the cathedral during evening prayers.
Anand Bhawan: Birthplace of India’s Political Dynasty
Once the residence of Motilal Nehru, Anand Bhawan later became the political epicenter of the Indian independence movement and home to Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister.
- Now a Museum: Preserves personal belongings, original furniture, letters, and photographs of the Nehru family.
- Historical Moments: Venue of key Indian National Congress meetings and freedom movement discussions.
- Adjacent Building: Swaraj Bhawan, used for Congress meetings and also houses Indira Gandhi’s memorabilia.
Explore: The planetarium inside Anand Bhawan complex for astronomy shows.
Alfred Park (Chandrashekhar Azad Park): Where a Hero Made His Last Stand
Spread across 133 acres, this is Prayagraj’s largest public park, historically known as Company Bagh and later renamed after freedom fighter Chandrashekhar Azad, who attained martyrdom here in 1931.
- Azad Memorial: The exact spot where he shot himself to avoid British capture is marked.
- British-Era Structures: Victoria Memorial Pavilion and statues from the colonial era.
- Leisure and Learning: The park also houses the Prayagraj Museum—home to archaeological artifacts, coins, sculptures, and memorabilia of Azad.
Insider Tip: Rent a cycle and explore the full expanse of the park for a tranquil afternoon.
Saraswati Ghat & Clock Tower: Colonial Meets Devotional
Though lesser known, Saraswati Ghat on the banks of the Yamuna is a peaceful spot that blends architectural beauty with devotion. Close by is the Clock Tower, a colonial relic reminiscent of British town planning.
- Ghat Features: Illuminated steps, riverfront gardens, and regular evening aarti ceremonies.
- Clock Tower: A majestic red-brick structure offering glimpses into 19th-century civic architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Just before dusk to witness the changing colors of the sky reflected in the river.
Minto Park (Madanganj Park): A Colonial Monument of Renaming
Located near the Yamuna bridge, Minto Park marks the site where the East India Company officially handed over control to the British Crown in 1858.
- Minto Memorial Stone: An obelisk that commemorates the proclamation.
- Peaceful Ambiance: Surrounded by trees and overlooking the river, it’s perfect for a historic walk.
Nagvasuki Temple: Mythology Carved in Stone
While not a monument in the traditional sense, Nagvasuki Temple is an ancient shrine linked to the legend of Kaliya Naag from Lord Krishna’s life.
- Located: On the banks of the Ganga near Daraganj.
- Mythology: Believed to be the place where the serpent king resided after being spared by Krishna.
- Festive Attraction: Hosts grand festivities during Nag Panchami.
High Court of Judicature at Allahabad: Legal Legacy in Architecture
Founded in 1866, the Allahabad High Court is one of India’s oldest and most prominent judicial institutions. The Edwardian-style building, complete with domes and symmetrical wings, reflects the gravitas of the Indian legal system.
- Architectural Notes: Expansive lawns, red sandstone structures, and central dome.
- Historic Judgments: Site of landmark legal proceedings and public interest litigations.
Please note: Entry to the court is restricted to legal professionals and litigants
Tips for Exploring Monuments in Prayagraj
- Dress Modestly: Some sites are religious or have restricted entry without appropriate attire.
- Local Guides: Hire certified guides for historical context and legends.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant.
- Transportation: Rickshaws and e-rickshaws are best for exploring narrow lanes and heritage alleys.
Suggested Heritage Walk Itinerary in Prayagraj
- Start at Sangam for a spiritual beginning.
- Walk or ride to Allahabad Fort.
- Visit Patalpuri Temple and Akshaya Vat (if accessible).
- Head to Khusro Bagh.
- Explore Anand Bhawan & Swaraj Bhawan.
- End the day with an evening visit to Alfred Park and All Saints’ Cathedral.
Conclusion
Prayagraj isn’t just a city of ghats and spiritual rituals; it’s a living museum of India’s multilayered past, from Vedic lore to Mughal splendor, British colonization to freedom struggle. Each fort and monument, whether grand or modest, echoes the soul of a civilization that has evolved through centuries. For those who seek a deeper connection with India’s heritage, the monuments of Prayagraj offer both enlightenment and awe.
