Allahabad Fort is the largest fort built by Akbar and a popular tourist attraction in Allahabad-the second oldest city of India. It was built in 1583 and presently only a part of this fort is open to the visitors.

The Allahabad Fort is the epitome of master craftsmanship of medieval India. Maximum area of the fort is captured by Indian Army leaving a lone part for the travelers to experience. The fort stands on the banks of the Yamuna near the union of Yamuna and Ganga Rivers, which is known as Triveni Sangam. The view can be best appreciated from the boats on the river. Jodhabai Palace is another prime attraction of the fort, which depicts the eye catching fusion of Hindu and Islamic architecture. Alongside, there is saraswati kund, which is regarded as the origin of the famous mythical river Saraswati.

History

The fort bears the glory for its significant design, construction, and craftsmanship. This gigantic fort has three covered passage bordered by high towers. The fort was captured by the East India Company in 1798. There is a zenana, where the women and family lived in the Muslim reign and a palace of Mariam-uz-Zamani inside the fort.

An Ashoka pillar that was built on 3rd century BC is also there inside the fort. This pillar is made from sandstone and stands 35 ft tall. It is one of the major attractions for archaeologists and historians. The pillar consists of royal pronouncement of Ashoka inscribed in it along with descriptions of the victories in battles of Samudragupta, couple of monographs and a petition to preserve the memories of Jahangir’s accession to his crown in order. Most of the ancient visitors, including Birbal, who visited the fort in 1575, have had their names inscribed on the pillar. It spreads 8Km east of Khusro Bagh.

There is an Akshaya Vat, an immortal banyan tree and it is believed that anyone jumps from the Akshyaya Vat tree attains immortality.

Lay Out

The Allahabad Fort has consisted of towers, palace, large Ashoka pillar, that bears the artistry of Hindu as well as Muslim culture. The fort has three gateways and surrounded with huge walls. An underground temple is situated within the fort that is known as Patalpuri Temple. A small door in the eastern wall of the fort leads to the underground Patalpuri temple and Akshaya Vat, the banyan tree can be seen in the Patalpuri area. The Ashoka pillar is located about 8 kilometer east of Khusro Bagh.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Allahabad Fort is between October to March, during the winter season. During the summer, the sun remains at the top of the head, and the city experiences scorching heat. Likewise, rainy seasons are also filled with heavy showers. Therefore, the autumn and winters are regarded as the best time of the year to visit Allahabad Fort. However, the fort remains open throughout the year for visitors.

Visitor’s Information

• Opening Hours: The fort is open to everybody on all days from 7am to 6pm.
• Entry Fees: Entry by donation
• Visit Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour

How to Reach

The fort is located in the centre of the city and well connected to reach by airways, trains, and buses.

By Air

One needs to go to Bamrauli airport, which is 15 kilometers away and is the nearest airport. The airport is well connected with metrocities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow as well.

However, flying to Varanasi (120Km) and Kolkata (200Km) is another better options as both the airports have quality service. Taxis are available to be hired from the airports.

By Train

Allahabad is another rail head and is connected to all important cities of India. There are many railway stations from where trains are available. They are Chheoki (COI), Allahabad Junction, Naini, Allahabad City (ALY), Prayag (PRG), Phaphamau Junction (PFM), and Bamhauli.

By Bus

Regular buses are available to Allahabad from all the major cities in India.