Prayagraj
Positioned along the sacred Sangam, the confluence of three holy rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and the mystical Saraswati, the city of Prayagraj (once known as Allahabad), in Uttar Pradesh, is a popular pilgrimage destination for spiritual seekers. One of the four holy cities that play host to the Kumbh Mela, probably the largest human congregation in the world, Prayagraj attracts devotees, holy men, tourists and photographers from all over the world. Millions of people arrive here during the Maha Kumbh that is held at sangam every 12 years and the Kumbh that is held every six years.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma chose a piece of land to perform Prakrishta Yajna (a fire ritual). The place he chose was where the three holy rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati – merged with one another. Thus, the city, blessed by the gods, was named Teerthraj or Prayag.
We will explore the various spiritual sites and temples, meditate on the banks of the Ganges, and perform Yagnas and Om Chantings.
The best time to visit Prayagraj, is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During this time, temperatures range from 15°C in the morning to 4°C at night, and you might see fog in the early mornings.
Spiritual Attractions and Temples
Shankar Viman Temple
Rising to a height of 130 feet, the four-story temple is a sight to behold against the backdrop of the sacred Triveni Sangam – the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers. Each floor of the Shankar Viman Mandapam is a realm of spirituality, housing different deities and themes:
The ground floor venerates Adi Shankaracharya, whose teachings continue to guide seekers on the path of knowledge and liberation. Ascend to the first floor, and you are greeted by the serene presence of Devi Kamakshi and the 51 Shakti Peethas, celebrating the divine feminine’s power and grace. The second floor is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara (Balaji) from Tirupati, surrounded by 108 Vishnu-peeths, embodying the principle of preservation in the universe. The top floor houses the Sahasra Yoga Linga, encircled by 108 Shiva Lingas, representing the infinite aspects of Lord Shiva.
Bade Hanuman Ji Temple
Close to the Prayagraj Fort is another attraction the Bade Hanumanji Temple. Also known as Lete Hanuman Temple, it enshrines a 20-ft-long idol of the deity, in a supine or reclining position. It is the only temple of its kind in the world where Lord Hanuman is worshipped in this position. Legend has it that after burning Lanka, as mentioned in the epic Ramayana, Lord Hanuman was tired and on the insistence of Goddess Sita, laid down to rest at the site where now stands the red-stone temple.
What’s interesting about this shrine is that the idol of the lord appears some six to seven ft under the ground in a pit bordered by red-orange pillars and fences.
Patalpuri
Lying on the outskirts of Prayagraj, the Patalpuri Temple is among the most prominent spiritual sites in the city. A unique underground shrine, it houses many Deities. The highlight of this temple is the Akshaya Vat or the immortal banyan tree. Locals believe that in ancient times devotees would give up their lives from the tree as they believed it would help them attain salvation. The practice has long stopped and the tree is now a revered site. This temple, according to mythology, was once visited by Lord Rama. The temple lies in close proximity to the Prayagraj Fort.