Prayagraj or Allahabad is undoubtedly the holiest city of India. It is the land of the famous Kumbh Mela and is visited not only by Indians but also by foreigners. Prayagraj was previously called Allahabad and has been in existence for a long time. The meaning of ‘Pra’ is first, and the meaning of ‘yag’ is sacrifice. People believe that this is the exact site where Lord Brahma performed his first sacrifice or yajna. If you are a pilgrim, you can visit many sacred places here. There are many temples to visit in Allahabad. Whether you are a devotee or a tourist, these holy spots will offer you a spiritual awakening that you will never experience in your lifetime.
Some of the popular temples that you can visit in Prayagraj are as follows:-
Hanumat Niketan Mandir
Situated in the Civil Lines area of Allahabad, this is one of the most popular temples that you can explore during your pilgrimage tour. Constructed in recent times, the site is constructed by following the Nagar style of architecture. The huge temple complex houses the shrines of many Gods and Goddesses, such as Lord Rama and Sita, Lord Hanuman, Goddess Saraswati, Goddess Durga, Goddess Laxmi, Lord Shiva, etc. You will also find a library, an akhara, sweet shops, and the homes of the temple’s priests, as well as employees at this place.
Shankar Viman Mandapam
This ancient temple is another sacred place that you can consider visiting during your pilgrimage tour. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is constructed after considering the Nagara style of architecture. This beautiful temple derives its name from the aircraft of Lord Shiva. People believe that his aircraft has landed at this exact site. One of the striking features of the temple is the Shiva Lingam, which has existed here for a long time.
The mandapam of the temple has beautifully carved pillars. They display the mythical themes and offer you valuable information about many Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The main deity of this temple is Lord Shiva. However, you will also find shrines of other deities here, such as Kartikeya, Parvati, Durga, etc.
Devotees in large numbers visit this temple on special occasions such as the Shravan month and Shivratri. The temple is also popular for its architectural splendor. It showcases the ancient craftsmanship of the ancient era and lets the pilgrims experience the spiritual essence of this place. A visit to this temple will be a lifetime experience for the pilgrims. Once you are here, you will feel a connection with the divine energy that is present here.
Takshakeshwar Nath Temple
Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, Takshakeshwar Nath Temple is another sacred spot that you can explore during your pilgrimage tour to Prayagraj. This site is one of the most visited places in the country. This place has been preserved since the olden times. The remnants of Sheshnag are still present at this site. This place is also known as “Bada Shivala”. Takshakeshwar Nath Temple is mentioned in various Puranas. People believe that if a person whose children have never been bitten by any snake is free from the venom of the snake after visiting this place.
Nag Vasuki Temple
Another worth-seeing temple to visit in Prayagraj is Nag Vasuki Temple. Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges, this temple is one of the most revered sites to explore by Hindu devotees. Dedicated to Lord Vasuki, this is one of the most important serpent temples in the country. This temple is visited by a large number of pilgrims from all over the country. People believe that visiting this temple will provide freedom to you from Kaal Sarapa Dosha. According to astrologers, this dosha causes many problems in the life of a person, such as health problems, relationship problems, financial difficulties, etc.
The Nagvasuki Temple was constructed after considering the Hindu architectural style. The temple houses a central hall. It also has a sanctum sanctorum, which has a statue of Lord Vasuki. This idol is made up of black stone. The Vasuki statue has 5 hoods as well as 4 coils. They are the symbols of spiritual awakening, protection, and hope for the ones who visit the temple. Devotees visit this place from different parts of the country. You will also find many other small shrines here that are dedicated to other Gods and Goddesses. They include Bhishma Pitamah, Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesh, etc.
Mankameshwar Temple
Mankameshwar Temple is one of the famous temples to visit in Prayagraj. Situated in the cantonment area of the city, this place is visited by countless pilgrims. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Mankameshwar Temple is maintained by a trust named Sri Shankaracharya Trust. The name of the temple is derived from a famous legend. According to it, the temple was established by Lord Rama when he took a rest under the Askhayavat tree on his way to Chitrakoot. His brother Lakshaman and wife Sita were also with him. Goddess Sita wanted to offer prayers to Shiva after having a bath at the Sangam.
As there was no temple of Lord Shiva in this region, Lord Rama constructed this sacred temple at this site. Later, both of them worshipped Shiva and organized an Abhishek ceremony here.
People believe that the wishes of pilgrims are granted at this temple. Mankameshwar Temple is famous for its architecture, which is a perfect mixture of Traditional architecture and Mughal-style carvings. The Shivalinga in the temple is self-infested. Pilgrims have a great reverence for this place. You can see the statues of Lord Ganesha, Nandi, Peepal, Banyan Tree, and Lord Hanuman here.
Alopi Devi Temple
This temple is also known as the Alop Sankari Temple. One of the unique features of this temple is that you will not find any idols here. All you can see is a well and a decorated jhula. People believe that the Devi disappeared from the swing. Thus, devotees start worshipping the Jhula.
Famous Temples in Prayagraj: Conclusion
If you are looking to explore the popular temples of Prayagraj or Allahabad, you can book the best pilgrimage tour packages through the leading travel agents. You will not be disappointed in visiting the sacred spots of this city. From Hanumat Niketan Mandir to Mankameshwar Temple, you will find a lot of temples here that will offer you spiritual awakening and connect you with the divine power. You can also explore during your temple tour 10 famous krishana temples in india.
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