Prayagraj Fort, Prayagraj

Prayagraj Fort, Prayagraj | History, Timing & Entry Ticket Fee

The magnificent Allahabad Fort was constructed in 1583 under the rule of Akbar, the Mughal Emperor. The magnificent building, which is known for being the biggest fort Akbar ever constructed, is situated on the banks of the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.

In addition to its historical significance, this well-known destination attracts thousands of visitors from around the globe because of its stunning architecture. It should be noted, nevertheless, that the general public is regrettably unable to enter Allahabad Fort. Only during the once-every-12-year Kumbh Mela are tourists permitted entry. A sight to behold, however, is the monument’s magnificent architecture and enormous construction as it stands firm on the banks of the meeting point of the two rivers!

The Archaeological Survey of India is in charge of the highly significant Allahabad Fort. The Akshayavat Tree (Banyan Tree), which is another well-known feature of the fort, is said to have been utilized by the people to end their lives in order to find redemption. Only the area occupied by the majestic Akshayavat tree is accessible to those who desire to visit it through a modest fence. The Patalpuri Temple, which is believed to have all of hell’s gates, is also located within Allahabad Fort. Taking a riverboat cruise at sunrise or dusk is the ideal opportunity to see the Allahabad Fort from the outside.

History of Allahabad Fort

Legend has it that Akbar was informed that he had been a Hindu hermit in a past life. He once accidentally drank milk and ingested a cow’s hair. He committed suicide since, in accordance with his religion, this behavior was criminal. He became a non-Hindu in his subsequent incarnation and was attracted to the holy meeting point of the Ganga and Yamuna, India’s two principal rivers. It was stated that he was motivated by this desire to have the Allahabad Fort constructed there.

Akbar discovered that a magnificent banyan tree was used for suicide after ascending to the throne. He added the tree to the fort grounds in an effort to curb this practice. Furthermore, the fort’s construction was more difficult than they had anticipated. The foundation would sink in the sand on the riverbanks each time it was constructed. In order to finish the ceremony and lift the curse, Akbar was counseled to sacrifice a human. After a local Brahmin gave his life as he saw fit, the fort was built without any further problems. It is stated that the Brahmin family has been given the sole permission to serve pilgrims who come to the area.

Architecture Of Allahabad Fort 

The Allahabad Fort is made up of towers, enormous walls, a temple, and a large palace. Three gateways lead into and out of the fort, and the interior of the palace is decorated with Hindu and Muslim art. The famous Akshayavat tree is located on the grounds close to the Patalpuri Temple, and there is a 10-meter-tall Ashoka Pillar that was built in 232 BC and bears the inscription of Emperor Jahangir.

The Legend of the ‘Akshayavat’ Tree

In Hindu mythology, a fabled tree known as “the indestructible tree” or “Akshayavat” exists. According to the legend of the tree, a well-known sage once asked Lord Narayana to demonstrate his strength to him; in response, the Lord briefly flooded the entire earth. The only tree that remained above the water level during this time was the Akshayavat. It is regarded as indestructible as a result.

Some people think that Rama, Lakshan, and Sita slept beneath this tree during the Ramayana, and the mythology has grown even more over time. Another well-known local legend is that the tree is prominently displayed inside the fort because Akbar attempted, but failed, to burn it down when the fort was being built. People used to leap from this tree into the water to end their lives for a very long time because they thought it would save them.

This tree is also mentioned in a number of historical sources; for instance, several Chinese pilgrims from the 7th century tell tales about it. Regretfully, many people are also unsure of the whereabouts of the original tree; some claim that the one on exhibit is only a replica that is kept up to date by the experts.