Prayagraj (Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh – Facts And History

Prayagraj is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh at the confluence of three holy rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati – and is considered to be one of the holiest cities in Hinduism.

Formerly known as Allahabad, the city was renamed Prayagraj in 2018. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus who come here to take a holy dip at the confluence of the three rivers during the Kumbh Mela, a major religious festival held every 12 years.

Prayagraj is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It was a prominent center of the Indian independence movement and was the venue for the famous Allahabad Address by Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. The city is home to several historical monuments and landmarks, including the Allahabad Fort, Khusro Bagh, Anand Bhawan, and the Triveni Sangam.

Other Names And Nicknames Of Prayagraj:

Prayagraj has been known by several names and nicknames over the course of its history. Some of these include:

• Prayag: This is the original name of the city, which means “confluence” in Sanskrit.
• Teerth Raj: This nickname means “king of pilgrimage sites” in Hindi and is a testament to the city’s importance as a pilgrimage destination.
• Sangam Nagari: This nickname means “city of confluence” in Hindi and is a reference to the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
• Rambha Nagari: This nickname means “city of beautiful women” in Hindi and is a reference to a legend that describes the city as the abode of the celestial dancer Rambha.
• Kaushambi: This is the ancient name of the city, which was an important center of Buddhism in ancient India.
• Allauddinpuri: This nickname is based on the name of the 13th-century Delhi Sultanate ruler, Allauddin Khilji, who is said to have established a fort in the city.
• City of Prime Ministers: This nickname is given to Prayagraj because several Indian Prime Ministers, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and Indira Gandhi, have been associated with the city.
• Allahabad: Although this was the official name of the city until it was renamed Prayagraj in 2018, many people still refer to the city by its old name.
• Paryavaran Nagari: This nickname means “city of environment” and is a reflection of the city’s greenery and commitment to environmental conservation.

Historical Importance Of Prayagraj:

Prayagraj has a rich historical importance and has been an important center of culture, religion, and politics for several centuries. Here are some of the key highlights of the city’s historical significance:

• Ancient History: Prayagraj has a rich history dating back to the Vedic period (1500-500 BCE) when it was known as Prayag and was an important center of learning and culture. It was also a prominent site for Hindu pilgrimage and was mentioned in ancient texts such as the Mahabharata and the Puranas.
• Mauryan Empire: Prayagraj was an important city during the Mauryan Empire (321-185 BCE) and was a center of administration and governance. The city was visited by the famous Mauryan emperor, Ashoka, who erected several pillars and inscriptions in the city.
• Mughal Era: Prayagraj was a prominent center of the Mughal Empire (1526-1857) and was an important site for trade, commerce, and culture. The Mughal emperor Akbar is said to have visited the city and built several monuments, including the Allahabad Fort and the Akbari Bridge.
• Indian Independence Movement: Prayagraj was a significant center of the Indian independence movement and was the site of several important events, including the famous Allahabad Address by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1946. The city was also the birthplace of several prominent freedom fighters, including Chandrashekhar Azad and Motilal Nehru.
• Cultural Heritage: Prayagraj has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several important monuments and landmarks, including the Triveni Sangam, Khusro Bagh, Anand Bhawan, and the Allahabad Museum. The city is also known for its literary and artistic traditions and has been the home of several notable poets, writers, and artists over the years.

How to Reach Prayagraj:

Prayagraj is well connected by road, rail, and air. Here are the various modes of transportation you can use to reach Prayagraj:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Prayagraj is the Bamrauli Airport, located about 15 km from the city center. It is a domestic airport and is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Prayagraj.
• By Rail: Prayagraj is an important railway junction and is well connected to major cities across India. The city has four railway stations, namely Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj City, Prayag Ghat, and Daraganj. Trains from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore connect to Prayagraj.
• By Road: Prayagraj is well connected by road to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states. Several state-run and private buses operate from cities like Varanasi, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Allahabad. National Highway 19 and National Highway 27 connect the city to other parts of the country.
• By Metro: Prayagraj is planning to launch a metro rail service soon, which will connect the city with other parts of the region.

Once you reach Prayagraj, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use auto-rickshaws to explore the city.

10 Interesting Facts About Prayagraj:

• The name Prayagraj means “place of sacrifice” and is derived from the ancient practice of performing rituals and sacrifices at the confluence of the three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
• Prayagraj is one of the oldest cities in India, with a history that dates back to the Vedic period.
• The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is held in Prayagraj every 12 years. Millions of pilgrims from around the world come to the city during the Kumbh Mela to take a holy dip in the confluence of the three rivers.
• Prayagraj has played an important role in the Indian independence movement, with several key events taking place in the city, including the famous Allahabad Address by Jawaharlal Nehru.
• The Allahabad High Court, one of the oldest high courts in India, is located in Prayagraj and has a rich history dating back to the British colonial era.
• The city is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Allahabad, the Indian Institute of Information Technology, and the Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology.
• Prayagraj is known for its cultural and literary heritage, with several prominent poets, writers, and artists hailing from the city. The famous Urdu poet, Firaq Gorakhpuri, and the Hindi writer, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, are both from Prayagraj.
• The Allahabad Museum, located in the city, has a rich collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the region.
• Prayagraj is home to several important landmarks and monuments, including the Allahabad Fort, the Anand Bhawan, and the Khusro Bagh.
• The city is a popular destination for foodies, with several delicious local dishes like chaat, pani puri, and kulfi available at the numerous street food stalls and restaurants

15 Places To Visit In Prayagraj:

• Triveni Sangam: The confluence of the three holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati is a must-visit attraction in Prayagraj.
• Allahabad Fort: Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, the fort is a popular tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the city’s history.
• Anand Bhawan: The former home of the Nehru-Gandhi family is now a museum that showcases the family’s history and legacy.
• Khusro Bagh: A garden complex that houses several mausoleums of the Mughal era, including that of Khusro, the son of Emperor Jahangir.
• All Saints Cathedral: One of the oldest churches in North India, the cathedral is known for its stunning Gothic architecture.
• Jawahar Planetarium: A popular destination for astronomy enthusiasts, the planetarium offers shows and exhibits on space and astronomy.
• Alfred Park: A large public park that was built during the British colonial era and is now a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
• Allahabad Museum: A museum that showcases the art, history, and culture of the region, with a collection of over 18,000 artifacts.
• Hanuman Mandir: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god, that is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance.
• Allahabad High Court: One of the oldest high courts in India, the building is a stunning example of colonial-era architecture.
• Saraswati Ghat: A popular spot for taking a dip in the holy waters of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
• Patalpuri Temple: Located within the Allahabad Fort, the temple is believed to be the site where Lord Rama performed the pitra tarpan ceremony for his ancestors.
• Ashoka Pillar: A 16th-century pillar that was erected by Emperor Ashoka, it is believed to mark the site where Buddha preached his first sermon.
• Lalita Devi Temple: A temple dedicated to the goddess Lalita Devi, it is believed to have been built during the Gupta period.
• Allahabad University: One of the oldest universities in India, it is known for its beautiful campus and rich academic legacy.

Places Of Worship in Prayagraj:

Prayagraj is a city with a rich religious and cultural heritage. Here are some of the major places of worship in Prayagraj:

• Triveni Sangam: The confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers is considered one of the most sacred places in Hinduism.
• Hanuman Mandir: This temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is one of the most popular places of worship in Prayagraj.
• Allahabad Fort: Within the fort, there are several temples including the Patalpuri Temple, Akshaya Vat, and Saraswati Koop.
• Kumbh Mela: The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world and attracts millions of pilgrims from all over India and abroad.
• All Saints Cathedral: A major landmark in Prayagraj, the All Saints Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in North India.
• Saraswati Ghat: This ghat is an important site for Hindu rituals and ceremonies.
• Lalita Devi Temple: This temple dedicated to the goddess Lalita Devi is one of the oldest temples in Prayagraj and is believed to have been built during the Gupta period.
• Jama Masjid: This mosque, located near the Allahabad Fort, is one of the largest and most important mosques in Prayagraj.
• Akbar’s Palace and Museum: The palace houses a museum with several historical artifacts and displays, including a Quran written by Emperor Aurangzeb.
• Shivkuti Temple: This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the oldest and most important temples in Prayagraj.

Art And Culture Of Prayagraj:

Prayagraj is known for its rich history, culture, and art. Prayagraj has been a center of cultural and artistic activities since ancient times and has contributed significantly to Indian art and culture. Here are some of the art and cultural highlights of Prayagraj.

1. Kumbh Mela: Prayagraj is famous for the Kumbh Mela, the largest religious gathering in the world, which takes place once every 12 years. Millions of people from all over India and abroad gather at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers to take a holy dip in the waters and seek blessings. The Kumbh Mela is a celebration of spirituality, culture, and tradition, and is a major attraction for tourists from all over the world.
2. Literature: Prayagraj has a rich literary tradition and has been home to many famous writers and poets. Harivansh Rai Bachchan, one of the most renowned Hindi poets, was born and raised in Prayagraj. Other famous writers who hail from the city include Mahadevi Verma, Sumitranandan Pant, and Nirala.
3. Music and dance: Prayagraj has been a center of classical music and dance since ancient times. The city is known for its unique style of classical music called the “Prayag Gharana,” which blends various musical styles and traditions. The city is also known for its classical dance forms like Kathak, which originated in North India, and Bharatanatyam, which originated in South India.
4. Handicrafts: Prayagraj is famous for its handcrafted products, including pottery, brassware, and textiles. The city is known for its intricate and colorful designs, which are a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the region. Some of the famous handicrafts of Prayagraj include chikankari embroidery, zardozi work, and Banarasi sarees.
5. Architecture: Prayagraj has many historical buildings and monuments that reflect its rich architectural heritage. The Allahabad Fort, built during the reign of Emperor Akbar, is a famous example of Mughal architecture. The Anand Bhawan, which was the residence of the Nehru-Gandhi family, is another famous landmark of the city. The city also has many temples and religious sites, including the Triveni Sangam, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet.

In conclusion, Prayagraj is a city that is steeped in history, culture, and tradition. Its contribution to Indian art and culture has been significant, and its unique blend of music, dance, literature, handicrafts, and architecture makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of India.

Trade And Commerce In Prayagraj:

Prayagraj is an important hub of trade and commerce in the region, with a rich history of commercial activity dating back to ancient times. Here are some details about trade and commerce in Prayagraj.

1. Agriculture: Agriculture is the backbone of the economy of Prayagraj. The fertile land and favorable climate of the region make it an ideal place for the cultivation of various crops such as wheat, rice, sugarcane, and potatoes. The agricultural products are sold in local markets as well as transported to other parts of the country.
2. Industries: Prayagraj has a diverse range of industries, including textiles, food processing, leather, and handicrafts. The city is known for its high-quality leather products, such as shoes, belts, and bags. The textile industry is also thriving in the region, with the city famous for its chikankari embroidery work, which is a traditional style of embroidery done on fine cotton fabrics.
3. Trade fairs: Prayagraj hosts many trade fairs throughout the year, which attract traders and businessmen from all over the country. The Magh Mela and Kumbh Mela are two of the most famous fairs held in the city, which provide a platform for traders to sell their products and establish business contacts.
4. Transport: Prayagraj is well-connected to other parts of the country by road, rail, and air. The city has a major railway station and an airport, which make it easily accessible for traders and businessmen. The Ganga River also flows through the city, which provides an important mode of transportation for goods.
5. Banking and finance: Prayagraj has a well-developed banking and financial sector, with many national and international banks having branches in the city. The city also has a stock exchange, which facilitates the buying and selling of shares and securities.

In conclusion, Prayagraj is a thriving center of trade and commerce in the region, with a rich history of commercial activity. The city’s favorable location, fertile land, and well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal place for businesses to grow and prosper. With its diverse range of industries, trade fairs, and financial institutions, Prayagraj is a hub of economic activity and an important contributor to the growth and development of the country’s economy.

10 Hotels To Stay in Prayagraj:

Prayagraj is an important tourist destination with many historical and religious sites, as well as a hub of trade and commerce. Here are ten hotels to consider for your stay in Prayagraj:

1. The Legend Hotel: Located in Civil Lines, The Legend Hotel is a luxury hotel that offers spacious and well-appointed rooms, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Museum and Triveni Sangam.
2. Hotel Harsh Ananda: Located in Civil Lines, Hotel Harsh Ananda offers comfortable and budget-friendly rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Museum and Triveni Sangam.
3. Grand Continental Hotel: Located in Allahabad, Grand Continental Hotel offers well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan.
4. Hotel Polo Max: Located in Allahabad, Hotel Polo Max offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan.
5. The Pelican Inn: Located in Civil Lines, The Pelican Inn offers budget-friendly rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Museum and Triveni Sangam.
6. Hotel Yatrik: Located in Civil Lines, Hotel Yatrik offers well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Museum and Triveni Sangam.
7. Hotel Kashi Annapurna: Located in Allahabad, Hotel Kashi Annapurna offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan.
8. Hotel Milan Palace: Located in Civil Lines, Hotel Milan Palace offers budget-friendly rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Museum and Triveni Sangam.
9. Hotel Polomax: Located in Allahabad, Hotel Polomax offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan.
10. Hotel Galaxy: Located in Allahabad, Hotel Galaxy offers well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, and a conference hall. It is located close to the city’s major attractions such as Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan.

In conclusion, Prayagraj offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs. Whether you are looking for luxury or budget-friendly hotels, there are plenty of options to choose from. These ten hotels offer a comfortable stay and easy access to the city’s major attractions.

10 Dine-In Restaurants In Prayagraj:

Prayagraj is a hub of cultural, religious, and historical significance, attracting tourists from all over the world. Here are ten dine-in restaurants in Prayagraj to try:

1. El Chico: Located in Civil Lines, El Chico is a Mexican restaurant that offers a wide range of authentic Mexican cuisine and has a cozy ambiance, and the staff is friendly and courteous.
2. The Mughal’s Dastarkhwan: Located in Tagore Town, The Mughal’s Dastarkhwan is a North Indian restaurant that offers a variety of mouth-watering dishes. The restaurant has a traditional ambiance, and the staff is welcoming and attentive.
3. Sagar Ratna: Located in Civil Lines, Sagar Ratna is a South Indian restaurant that offers a range of delicious vegetarian dishes. The restaurant has a clean and spacious ambiance, and the staff is polite and efficient.
4. The Tamarind Tree: The Tamarind Tree, situated in Civil Lines, is a restaurant serving a diverse selection of dishes from Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Its welcoming atmosphere and hospitable staff make it a pleasant dining experience.
5. Milan Restaurant: Located in Allahabad, Milan Restaurant is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a variety of North Indian dishes. The restaurant has a simple and clean ambiance, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
6. Spice Kitchen: Located in Civil Lines, Spice Kitchen is a multi-cuisine restaurant that offers a range of dishes from Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. The restaurant has a modern and elegant ambiance, and the staff is efficient and friendly.
7. Agarwal Restaurant: Located in Allahabad, Agarwal Restaurant is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a variety of North Indian dishes. The restaurant has a simple and clean ambiance, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
8. The Yellow Chilli: Located in Civil Lines, The Yellow Chilli is a North Indian restaurant that offers a range of delicious dishes. The restaurant has a vibrant and colorful ambiance, and the staff is attentive and courteous.
9. Tadka Family Restaurant: Located in Allahabad, Tadka Family Restaurant is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a range of North Indian dishes. The restaurant has a clean and spacious ambiance, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
10. Green Leaf: Located in Civil Lines, Green Leaf is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a range of North Indian dishes. The restaurant has a simple and clean ambiance, and the staff is friendly and efficient.

In conclusion, Prayagraj offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. These ten restaurants offer a delightful culinary experience and warm hospitality. Whether you are in the mood for Mexican, South Indian, North Indian, or multi-cuisine dishes, you will find something to satisfy your palate in Prayagraj.

10 Schools In Prayagraj:

Prayagraj is a hub of cultural, religious, and educational significance, attracting students from all over the country. Here are ten schools in Prayagraj to consider:

1. Boys’ High School and College: Founded in 1861, Boys’ High School and College is one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in Prayagraj. It is an English medium school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a rich legacy and a long list of distinguished alumni.
2. St. Joseph’s College: Established in 1884, St. Joseph’s College is a Catholic minority institution that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a strong focus on academic excellence and moral values.
3. Bishop Johnson School and College: Established in 1950, Bishop Johnson School and College is an English medium school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a sprawling campus and a wide range of facilities.
4. Central Hindu Boys School: Founded in 1892, Central Hindu Boys School is an English medium school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities and sports.
5. Delhi Public School: Established in 2012, Delhi Public School is a relatively new school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a modern campus and a focus on technology-based education.
6. Ganga Gurukulam: Founded in 1991, Ganga Gurukulam is a residential school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a unique approach to education, emphasizing traditional Indian values and teachings.
7. Mary Lucas School: Established in 1887, Mary Lucas School is a Catholic minority institution that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a rich history and a strong focus on holistic development.
8. Holy Trinity School: Established in 1983, Holy Trinity School is an English medium school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a sprawling campus and a wide range of facilities.
9. Kendriya Vidyalaya: Established in 1976, Kendriya Vidyalaya is a government-run school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a strong focus on academic excellence and holistic development.
10. St. Mary’s Convent School: Established in 1870, St. Mary’s Convent School is a Catholic minority institution that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school has a rich legacy and a focus on values-based education.

In conclusion, Prayagraj offers a wide range of educational institutions to suit all needs and preferences. These ten schools are some of the best in the city, offering a quality education and a range of facilities and extracurricular activities. Whether you are looking for a traditional, values-based education or a modern, technology-based approach, you will find something to suit your needs in Prayagraj.

10 Colleges In Prayagraj:

Prayagraj is home to a number of esteemed colleges and universities. Here are ten colleges in Prayagraj that offer quality higher education to students:

1. Allahabad University: Founded in 1887, Allahabad University is a premier institution of higher education in India. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in a wide range of disciplines, including science, arts, commerce, law, and management.
2. Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology: Established in 1961, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology is a premier engineering institute in India. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various disciplines of engineering, science, and management.
3. Ewing Christian College: Founded in 1902, Ewing Christian College is a Christian minority institution that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science, arts, and commerce. It is known for its excellent academic standards and diverse student community.
4. Harish Chandra Postgraduate College: Established in 1866, Harish Chandra Postgraduate College is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in Prayagraj and it offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science, arts, and commerce.
5. United College of Engineering and Research: Established in 1998, United College of Engineering and Research is a premier engineering college in Prayagraj. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines of engineering, science, and management.
6. Ishwar Saran Degree College: Founded in 1970, Ishwar Saran Degree College is a reputed institution that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science, arts, and commerce. It has a large campus and a wide range of facilities.
7. K.P. Training College: Established in 1955, K.P. Training College is a renowned institution that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in education. It has a strong focus on teacher training and educational research.
8. Arya Kanya Degree College: Founded in 1960, Arya Kanya Degree College is a women’s college that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science, arts, and commerce. It is known for its excellent academic standards and supportive learning environment.
9. Shambhunath Institute of Engineering and Technology: Established in 2004, Shambhunath Institute of Engineering and Technology is a well-known engineering college in Prayagraj. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines of engineering and management.
10. Jagat Taran Girls’ Degree College: Established in 1975, Jagat Taran Girls’ Degree College is a women’s college that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science, arts, and commerce. It has a large campus and a wide range of facilities.

In conclusion, Prayagraj is home to some of the best colleges and universities in India. These ten colleges offer a diverse range of programs and a high standard of education. Whether you are interested in engineering, science, arts, or management, you will find an institution that suits your needs in Prayagraj.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Prayagraj is a city rich in culture, history, and education. It offers a variety of opportunities for students seeking higher education, with a range of esteemed colleges and universities. From engineering and science to arts and commerce, there is something for everyone in Prayagraj. In addition to its academic offerings, the city also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, beautiful hotels, and historic landmarks. Whether you are a student or a traveler, Prayagraj has much to offer and is definitely worth exploring.