Prayagraj Fort

Prayagraj Fort, also known as Allahabad Fort, is a 16th-century Mughal fort located at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers near Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1583, it is noted for its massive walls, impressive architecture and strategic riverside location. The fort houses the Akshayavat tree, Patalpuri Temple and an Ashoka Pillar, and remains largely under Indian Army control with limited public access.

Visitors can view the massive exterior walls and bastions of the fort from outside along the Yamuna near Triveni Sangam. Access to the interior is restricted as the fort is under Indian Army control. Limited areas including Patalpuri Temple, Akshayavat (immortal banyan tree) and Saraswati Koop are accessible to visitors with permission, often during specific periods. Expect security checks, historic Mughal architecture, religious shrines inside, and views of the river confluence.

Constructed in 1583 by Mughal Emperor Akbar, Prayagraj Fort was built as a strategic military fort at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna. It exhibits Mughal architecture and later came under British control. The fort contains an Ashoka Pillar from 232 BCE, originally erected by Emperor Ashoka and later moved inside the fort by Akbar, bearing inscriptions from different periods.

Located at the sacred Triveni Sangam, the fort holds religious importance for pilgrims. Inside, the Akshayavat - believed to be an immortal banyan tree, the underground Patalpuri Temple, and Saraswati Koop (well) are revered sites visited by devotees, especially during Kumbh Mela and Magh Mela.