A city of many dimensions is the description most suited for Allahabad. In addition to being a major pilgrimage centre, the city has played an important part in the formation of modern India. Allahabad is among the largest cities in Uttar Pradesh. The city's original name, Prayag or 'place of offering', is mainly because it stands at the confluence of three of India's holiest rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. 'Sangam', as the confluence is called, is the venue of many sacred fairs and rituals, and attracts thousands of pilgrims throughout the year, especially during the time of the popular 'Kumbh Mela'. Allahabad is a paradise for foodies! The Mughalai cuisine of North India is an absolute favourite and a must-try. The official spoken language in the city is Hindi.

Best time to visit:

The Best season to visit Allahabad is from October to March when the monsoons have just receded and the weather is good for sight seeing and participating in public celebrations.

Top five places to see:

Allahabad Fort – This fort, built by the great Moghul Emperor Akbar, is situated on the banks of the Yamuna near the 'Triveni' or the confluence site. This majestic fort has three magnificent galleries flanked by high towers. The 'Saraswati Kup', a well said to be the source of the Saraswati river, the Jodhabai Palace, the Patalpuri temple and the much revered Akshaya Vat or immortal Banyan tree can all be found here.

Khusro Bagh – This large walled historic garden, created by the Moghul King Jahangir in memory of his eldest son Khusro, is an exquisite example of Mughal architecture. Here also lie the tombs of Shah Begum – Khusro's mother, a Rajput princess and Jahangir's first wife, and that of Princess Sultan Nithar Begam, Khusro's sister.

Triveni Sangam – 'Sangam' is a Sanskrit word for confluence. It is a sacred site for Hindus and is the meeting place of the three rivers: Ganga, Yamuna and the invisible Saraswati. The ‘Kumbh Mela’ is held on the banks of the Sangam, during which millions of pilgrims throng to the place to take a holy dip in this confluence.

Ashoka Pillar – Standing tall, the gigantic Ashoka Pillar of polished sandstone stands, approximately 10 meters high and dates back to 232 B.C. The pillar has several edicts and a Persian inscription of the Moghul Emperor Jahangir inscribed on it, commemorating his accession to the throne.

Anand Bhawan – The erstwhile ancestral home of the Nehru family, the Anand Bhavan today has been turned into a fine museum. Here, many momentous decisions, events, related to India’s freedom struggle took place. The main building houses a museum which displays memorabilia of the Nehru family.