Top 10 Things Allahabad Is Famous For

1. The prestige of University of Allahabad

The University of Allahabad, situated in the historic city of Allahabad in India, is renowned for its rich academic heritage and contributions to education. Established in 1887, it holds a significant place in the country’s educational landscape. The university’s reputation for excellence in various fields of study, including arts, sciences, law, and social sciences, draws students from across India and beyond.

Allahabad, now officially known as Prayagraj, is famous for the university due to its historical significance and role as a center of education and culture. The city’s long-standing association with academic pursuits, along with the presence of esteemed institutions like the University of Allahabad, has cemented its reputation as a hub for learning and intellectual growth.

University of Allahabad

Address: Senate House, University Road, Old Katra, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211002, India

Website: University of Allahabad

2. The grandeur of Khusro Bagh

Your itinerary of sightseeing in Allahabad is incomplete if you haven’t included the famous Khusro Bagh in it. Khusro Bagh is a historical garden and holds a special place in the city’s heritage. This exquisite site is famous for housing the tombs of the Mughal prince Khusro and other members of the royal family. The unique architecture, intricate designs, and serene ambiance of Khusro Bagh make it a significant cultural and historical landmark.

The site showcases a blend of Persian and Indian architectural styles, reflecting the artistic sensibilities of the Mughal era. Its tranquil gardens and remarkable structures offer visitors a glimpse into India’s rich past and the intricate craftsmanship of the time. Khusro Bagh stands as a testament to Allahabad’s historical importance, drawing tourists and history enthusiasts alike to explore its captivating beauty and historical significance.

Khusro Bagh

Address: CRRC+WC3, Lukarganj, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211016, India

Website: Khusro Bagh

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6am - 9:30pm; Sun: 6am - 7pm

3. The confluence of three rivers at Triveni Sangam

According to Hindu culture, the confluence of the three holy rivers, Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati is a sacred place for Hindus, and it is said that taking a bath in this holy water can wash away all your sins and free you from the cycle of reincarnation as prescribed in Hindu texts. This place is a must-visit destination, as you can witness the three rivers merging before your eyes, identified by different colours. The Triveni Sangam is also the site of the Kumbh Mela, which is one of the biggest festivals held every 12 years. In addition, the ashes of some of the most important historic leaders of India were immersed here, including Gandhi. While there are other Triveni Sangams in India where other rivers meet, this is the biggest and most popular.

Triveni Sangam

Address: Sachcha Baba Nagar, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211008, India

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

4. Being one of the oldest-known historical cities

The city is considered one of the oldest known ones, mentioned in early Hindu mythological texts such as the Vedas. Known as Kosambi in the Vedic era, this beautiful city continued to flourish and grow throughout the Mauryan and Gupta Empires. The earliest known mention of this great city is as far back as 1200 BC and even Buddha commented on the Hindu ritual of bathing in the Triveni Sangam at this city. It was also mentioned in the Agni Puranas, as well as the Mahabharata, one of the most popular Hindu mythological texts.

5. Lip-smacking red guavas

Known as Allahabad Surkha or red guavas, this variety of guavas is one of the specialties of Allahabad. They are coral pink in colour on the inside instead of the usual off-white colour and are very coveted by Indians as a result. This variety of guava is considered as one of the best, as it is very sweet and delicious. If you are interested in trying out a new variety of fruit, then you cannot miss the yummy Allahabadi red guavas.

6. Anand Bhavan and the history of the Nehru family

Constructed by Motilal Nehru in the 1930s, this is a historic building that has been converted into a museum honouring the Nehru family including Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of free India. Today, it also has a planetarium called Jawahar Planetarium named after Jawaharlal Nehru himself, making it an amazing activity for children and adults alike to explore when the weather isn’t favourable. It features amazing sky shows and exhibits on astronomy, helping to inculcate interest in the sciences amongst the people since 1979.

Anand Bhavan

Address: Allenganj, Allahabad 211002, India

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 5pm (closed on Mon)

7. Being the City of Prime Ministers

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Allahabad is lovingly known as the City of Prime Ministers. This is because 7 out of the 15 Prime Ministers of India since Indian Independence have some connections to this regal city, including names like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and more. Because of this, Allahabad has a special place in the hearts of Indian political leaders and Indians alike.

8. Check out the famous Zardozi embroidery local to Allahabad

Zardozi embroidery is a beautiful style of embroidery that Allahabad specialises in. Popular across the Indian subcontinent as well as countries like Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Syria, this is a heavy embroidery done on silk or velvet fabric using gold or silver threads to create a very regal look. Often used in modern bridal wear or heavy sarees, this type of embroidery has taken the world by storm. Historically, wall hangings or royal tents would be adorned with this beautiful embroidery, as well as the adornments of royal animals like steeds or elephants. The word Zardozi comes from the beautiful Persian language, “Zari” meaning gold and “dozi” meaning sewing. So if you find yourself in Allahabad, you can go shopping for some gorgeous and regal Zardozi lehengas or sarees for your friends and family!

9. The magnificent Prayag Kumbh Mela

The Prayag Kumbh Mela is possibly the biggest festival in the world, going by the number of people who attend it. It is a celebration of community along with a collective holy dip at the confluence of the three holy rivers, and there is a wide variety of activities for one to engage in. There are multiple fairs and festivals within it, educational events, feeding of the poor and needy and plenty of entertainment to be had. All in all, it is one of the biggest community festivals you might ever see in your lifetime, making it a must-visit destination.

Prayag Kumbh Mela

Address: Sachcha Baba Nagar, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211008, India

Takes place: Once every 12 years (Next event in 2025)

10. New Yamuna Bridge

This famous cable-stayed bridge is India’s own Golden Gate bridge, and was built in 2004. It runs across the entire span of the huge Yamuna river, and connect Allahabad to Naini. The main feature of this bridge is that it seamlessly balances modern technology with its adherence to the fragile environment of the Yamuna River. Visit this bridge during sunset or sunrise hours, and it looks truly magnificent in the distance and makes for some Instaworthy snapshots. You can also rent a car and go for a long drive along this route, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lovely river. This bridge is also called Naini Bridge by some locals, and was constructed by Hyundai.

Enjoy the ever-popular charm of Allahabad

From the ancient Vedas, Allahabad or Prayagraj has been a well-known city in the old Hindu scriptures. Today, it is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country and boasts of rich history and culture as well as amazing food. Because you will find plenty of fun things to do and places to visit in Prayagraj, it comes as no surprise why it is a global tourist destination. Travelling to this lovely city is sure to be an adventure for even the most seasoned tourists. Don’t miss checking out the best Oyo rooms if you are planning a trip with your partner.