Vrindavan

located just 57 km from Agra, is considered by Hindu’s to be a place where Lord Krishna spent part of his life. There are as many as 4,000 temples in Vrindavan, most of them dedicated to Lord Krishna. Vrindavan is believed to be the site where Lord Krishna played with the cowherds or gopis and wooed his beloved Radha.

Agra Fort

The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the Agra fort in 1565 A.D although additions were made till the time of his grandson Shahjehan. It stands at a distance of just 2 Kms from the majestic Taj Mahal, and is built in red sandstone.

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is a sheer poetry in white marble and its majesty and magnificence are unrivalled. It is the one and only one of its kind in the whole world, which was the ultimate realization of Emperor Shahjehan’s dream for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Sikandra

The Mausoleum of Emperor Akbar represents his philosophy and secular outlook, combining the best of his architectures in a superlative fusion. It was started by Akbar before his death in 1605 A.D, and was completed by his son Jehangir in 1613 A.D.

Allahabad

one of the important cities of Uttar Pradesh, is situated at the confluence of three holy rivers–Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. The confluence is also called the Triveni sangam. Named as Prayag in ancient times, the city has a historical and mythological character with a glorious past. Allahabad is one of the most vibrant and spiritually awakened cities of India. Allahabad is also a pious venue for many fairs and rituals. The city attracts thousands of pilgrims throughout the year and buzzes with devotees and tourists during the world-famous Kumbh Mela.

Sangam

This meeting point of the mighty rivers of Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati, Sangam is one of the most sacred places of the Hindus. It hosts the Maha Kumbh Mela (the largest gathering of Hindus) and Ardh Kumbh. People perform various puja activities and assist the devout in their ritual ablutions in the shallow waters.

Allahabad Fort

This fort was built by Akbar in 1583 AD. Unrivalled for its design and craftsmanship in its heydays, the fort is now used by the army and only a part of it is open to the visitors. This huge, majestic fort has three magnificent galleries flanked by high towers. The visitors are allowed to see the Ashoka Pillar, Saraswati Kup, and Jodhabai Palace.

Swaraj Bhawan

The historical building built by Motilal Nehru, was donated to the nation in 1930 to be used as the headquarters of the Congress Committee. The former Prime Minister of India Mrs. Indira Gandhi was born here.

Mayo Memorial Hall

Situated near the Thornhill and Myne Memorial, this large hall has a 180-feet high tower. Professor Gamble of the South Kensington Museum, London, ornamented the interior of this memorial hall with designs. Completed in 1879, this hall was meant for public meetings, balls and receptions in commemoration of the assassinated Viceroy.

Other places to visit are Shankar Viman Mandapam, Mankameshwar Temple, Hanuman Mandir, All Saints Cathedral (Patthar Girjaghar), Minto Park, Allahabad University, Allahabad museum, Minto park, Muir College, Jawahar Planetarium, Chandra Shekhar Azad Park, and public library.

Sarnath

12 km from Varanasi lies Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon and revealed the eight fold path that leads to the attainment of inner peace,and elightenment. Later stupas and other magnificient buildings were built by Ashoka, the great Mauryan Emperor. The 110 ft tall Damekh Stupa marks the place where Buddha preached first sermon. Sarnath has been a premier center for Buddhism and has collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva images on display at the Archaeological.

Gaya

The ancient town of Gaya, located 100 kms south of Patna, is of great significance to Hindus and Budhhists. It is on the bank of Phalgu river. Here Lord Budhha preached the essence of life and Lord Vishnu preached the reality of death. It is believed that this place has been blessed by Lord Vishnu with purificatory powers to the “Atma”. The well known Vishnupad  temple is situated at Andhargaya on the bank of river Phalgu and about 3 Kms from the heart of the town whereas Bodhi briksha (Bodhi tree) and Mahabodhi temple is situated at Bodhgaya which is about 11/ 13 Kms from the heart of the town. Legend has it that a gentle demon named Gaya, appalled by the sorrow caused by death, complained to Vishnu, and as protest died for the world. Impressed by his resolve, Vishnu blessed Gaya with the power to absolve sinners. Like Varanasi, and many other riverside towns, Gaya is a “tirtha” – a crossing across the celestial divide.