Akshay Vat Prayagraj
An ancient, sacred banyan tree within Allahabad Fort, believed to be indestructible and a site of deep spiritual significance.
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Akshay Vat Prayagraj
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient, sacred banyan tree within Allahabad Fort, believed to be indestructible and a site of deep spiritual significance.
"Akshay Vat is an ancient Banyan tree which stands even before the times of Lord Ram."
Fort Entry Details
Entry to Akshay Vat is via Allahabad Fort. A separate corridor now exists, accessible from behind the Bade Hanuman Temple. :ticket:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's a sacred religious site. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Undying Banyan Tree
Allahabad Fort
An ancient, sacred fig tree believed to be indestructible and a site of deep spiritual significance.
Patalpuri Temple
Allahabad Fort
An underground temple housing numerous Shivlings and believed to be visited by Lord Rama.
Saraswati Koop
Allahabad Fort
A sacred well associated with the goddess Saraswati, adding to the spiritual aura of the site.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Akshay Vat
Fort Entry & Sacred Site Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Fort Entry Details
Entry to Akshay Vat is via Allahabad Fort. A separate corridor now exists, accessible from behind the Bade Hanuman Temple. :ticket:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's a sacred religious site. :pray:
Footwear Considerations
Wear comfortable shoes as there's a walk involved from the temple entrance. :athletic_shoe:
Photography Etiquette
Photography might be restricted in certain areas. Be mindful and respectful. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Fort Entry Details
Entry to Akshay Vat is via Allahabad Fort. A separate corridor now exists, accessible from behind the Bade Hanuman Temple. :ticket:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's a sacred religious site. :pray:
Footwear Considerations
Wear comfortable shoes as there's a walk involved from the temple entrance. :athletic_shoe:
Photography Etiquette
Photography might be restricted in certain areas. Be mindful and respectful. :camerawithflash:
Kumbh Mela Timing
If visiting during Kumbh Mela, expect massive crowds and plan accordingly. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Akshay Vat a deeply spiritual and historically significant site, particularly the ancient banyan tree and the underground Patalpuri Temple. The location within Allahabad Fort adds to its allure, though navigating the fort and potential crowds, especially during festivals, requires planning.
"The oldest temple near the bank of yamuna river it's rituals are very famous and akshayvaat means that can't never destroy."
laxman yaduwanshi
"This temple is located near to triveni sangham ghat at a walking distance only. Here it has a under ground temple with lots of shivlings. Very ancient patalpuri temple is situated on the banks of sangham."
Lalit Prajapati
"The very ancient Patalpuri temple is situated on the banks of Sangam in Prayagraj. 40 gods and goddesses are seated in this temple. Patalpuri, located in the premises of Prayagraj Fort, is an underground temple that holds great religious significance. According to folklore, Lord Rama visited this temple. It is also believed that this popular temple of Prayagraj was visited by Chinese traveller and writer Xuanzang. Very beautiful and holy place."
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Akshay Vat is located within the Allahabad Fort. You can reach it by taking a route from the Bade Hanuman Temple, which is about 500 meters away. There is now a separate corridor for entry. :world_map:
Prayagraj has good connectivity. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the Allahabad Fort area. :bus:
The visiting hours for Allahabad Fort can vary, and it's best to check locally or online before your visit, especially for the Akshay Vat section. :clock1:
Parking facilities might be limited near the fort entrance. It's advisable to check for designated parking areas or consider using ride-sharing services. :car:
Akshay Vat is located within the fort premises, which is near the Triveni Sangam. A walk from the Sangam area to the fort entrance is feasible. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Akshay Vat is typically included with the Allahabad Fort entry fee. It's recommended to confirm current ticket prices and availability. :ticket:
As a sacred site within a fort, there might be security checks and rules regarding photography or carrying certain items. :lock:
Tickets can usually be purchased at the fort entrance. Buying them upon arrival is common, but during peak seasons, arriving early is advised. :moneybag:
Generally, the entry to Patalpuri Temple is part of the fort's admission. Confirm with local authorities for any specific charges. :temple_buddha:
Yes, but expect significantly larger crowds during major festivals like the Kumbh Mela. Plan your visit well in advance. :confetti_ball:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Akshay Vat, meaning 'undying banyan tree,' is a sacred fig tree believed to be eternal. It holds immense religious importance in Hinduism and is associated with Lord Rama and Sita. :pray:
Patalpuri Temple is an ancient underground temple located within the Allahabad Fort, near Akshay Vat. It is believed to house 40 deities and has historical connections to Xuanzang. :temple_buddha:
Photography rules can vary within the fort and sacred areas. It's best to observe local signage or ask permission before taking pictures. :camerawithflash:
Allocate at least 1-2 hours to explore Akshay Vat and the Patalpuri Temple, including travel time within the fort. :stopwatch:
Official guides might be available at the Allahabad Fort. Hiring a local guide can enhance your understanding of the site's history and mythology. :man_detective:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find local eateries and street food stalls outside the Allahabad Fort and near the Triveni Sangam area offering various Indian snacks and meals. :street_food:
Generally, food consumption is restricted to designated areas outside the main sacred sites within the fort. :knifeforkplate:
Try local specialties like chaat, samosas, and lassi. Prayagraj also offers traditional North Indian cuisine. :icecream:
Some restaurants near the Sangam might offer views, but options directly adjacent to the fort are limited. :restaurant:
While street food can be delicious, exercise caution. Choose vendors with good hygiene practices and opt for freshly prepared items. :warning:
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient banyan tree itself, the intricate carvings in Patalpuri Temple, and the fort architecture offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around historical sites and forts due to security reasons. :noentrysign:
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both the grandeur of the tree and details within the temple. A wide-angle lens can be great for the fort's architecture. :camera:
The fort's location might offer interesting light during golden hours, but check if access is permitted during these times. :sunriseovermountains:
Focus on the textures of the ancient tree, the spiritual atmosphere inside the temple, and the historical architecture of the fort. :bulb:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Devotees & Spiritual Seekers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Undying Banyan Tree
While the exact age and origin are shrouded in myth, the spiritual energy surrounding Akshay Vat draws devotees from far and wide. The belief in its eternal nature makes it a powerful pilgrimage site. The tree's presence within the fort, a place of historical battles and royal power, creates a unique juxtaposition of the temporal and the eternal, the earthly and the divine.
Some accounts suggest that the original tree might not be the one currently visible, or that its true location is under Army control. However, the spiritual belief and the experience of visiting the site remain profound for many. The site is particularly significant during the Kumbh Mela, when millions gather in Prayagraj, further amplifying its sacred aura.
Exploring the Patalpuri Temple
The temple's underground nature adds an element of mystery and antiquity. Historical accounts suggest that the Chinese traveler Xuanzang may have visited this temple during his travels in India, attesting to its historical importance. The association with Lord Rama, who is believed to have visited the temple, further enhances its sacred status among devotees.
Visiting Patalpuri Temple offers a glimpse into ancient Indian religious architecture and practices. The atmosphere within the temple is often described as peaceful and deeply spiritual, providing a serene contrast to the bustling world outside.
Navigating the Allahabad Fort
The fort itself is a testament to Mughal architecture and military engineering. While the primary draw for many is Akshay Vat, exploring the fort's ramparts and other historical sections can offer a broader perspective on its past. Security is a key aspect of the fort, given its historical and strategic importance, so visitors should be prepared for checks.
Entry to the fort and its sacred sites is managed, and it's advisable to be aware of the specific timings and any regulations in place. The proximity to the Triveni Sangam and the Bade Hanuman Temple makes it a convenient addition to a spiritual itinerary in Prayagraj.
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