Famous "Akshayavat" Tree
The "Akshayavat", or "the indestructible tree" is a legendary tree in Hindu mythology. The story of the tree is that once a famous sage asked Lord Narayana to show him his power - as a display of that, the Lord flooded the entire world for a moment. During this, the Akshayavat was the only tree which was still over the water level. For this reason, it is considered as indestructible in Hindi history.
The legend grew even bigger with time, and is actually quite old - some people believe that Rama, Laksham and Sita rested under this tree during the times of Ramayana. Another popular local story is that Akbar tried to burn down the tree during the construction of the fort, but was unsuccessful - which is why the tree is conspicuously standing inside the fort. For a long time, people also used to commit suicide by jumping from this tree into the water, believing that they will attain salvation by doing this.
There are quite a few historical references to this tree as well - for example, a few Chinese pilgrims from the 7th century mention the stories of this tree. Unfortunately, there are also quite a few doubts as to where the original fig tree is - some say that the one on display is just a replica which is maintained by the pundits.
Patalpuri Temple
The Patalpuri Temple is a temple inside the fort - story is that there are gates to hell from within this temple.
Story of Allahabad Fort
According to a legend, Akbar was told that in his previous life, he was a Hindu hermit. He, once, consumed a cow's hair mistakenly while drinking milk. According to his religion, this act was punishable and he, hence, committed suicide. In his next birth, he was born a non-Hindu and was drawn towards the sacred confluence of the two major rivers of India, Ganga and Yamuna. It was said that this obsession pushed him to get the Allahabad Fort built at that location.
When he became the emperor, Akbar found out that a grand Banyan Tree was used to commit suicide. To stop this practice, he included the tree in the fort premises. Also, building the fort was not as easy as they thought it would. Every time they built the foundation, it would sink in the sand on the banks of the river. Akbar was advised to sacrifice a human to complete the ritual and break the curse. A local Brahmin sacrificed his life at will, and the fort was constructed without any more issues. The family of the Brahmin is said to have granted exclusive rights of servicing the pilgrims visiting the region.
Architecture Of Allahabad Fort
The Allahabad Fort consists of massive walls, towers, a temple and a large palace. There are three gateways to enter and exit the fort. The interior of the Palace has been decorated with Hindu and Muslim artistry. The temple inside the fort premise is an underground temple that can be accessed by a small entry in the eastern wall of the fort. The famous Akshayavat tree is also on the premise near the Patalpuri Temple. There is also a 10 metre tall Ashoka Pillar that was installed in 232 BC that has the inscription of Emperor Jahangir.
Nearby Attractions
Since the fort is located right on the banks of Yamuna next to Sangam, you can easily combine it with an early morning dip in the holy waters. There is also the (locally) famous temple of "Bade Hanuman Ji" right next to the fort - the temple has an interesting moorti of Lord Hanuman in a fully reclined position.
Best time to visit Allahabad Fort
Winters are the best time to visit Allahabad Fort i.e. between October and March. The weather stays pleasant during the peak hours of the day and the water level at the confluence is safe.
How to Reach Allahabad Fort
Allahabad Fort is located very close to the spot from where you take boat rides to go to the Triveni Sangam - which is the main tourist attraction in the city, and hence well connected. You can easily get a cab or rickshaw from almost anywhere in the city to reach the fort.
The nearest airport to Allahabad Fort is Bamrauli Air Force Base Airport, which is 14 kms away from Allahabad Fort. The nearest railway station to Allahabad Fort is the Allahabad Jn Train Station which is 5 kms away. From the stations, taxis/autos can be hired to reach the Fort premises.
Top Tourist Places in Allahabad
Kumbh Mela 2019
Allahabad Planetarium
Khusro Bagh
Allahabad Fort
Ashoka Pillar
Allahabad Museum
All Tourist Places in Allahabad
Did you know?
Allahabad Fort is the biggest fort built by Akbar during his entire reign!
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