Akshayavat Temple, Prayagraj - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 6 km from Allahabad Railway Station, the Akshayavat Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated near Sangam in Prayagraj, India. Situated within the ramparts of Allahabad Fort, it is one of the must-include places in Prayagraj pilgrimage packages.

The Akshayavat Temple, also referred to as Sri Adi Vat Madhav or Patalpuri Temple, derives its name from the 'Akshaya Vata,' an eternal Banyan tree that flourishes within its grounds. According to legend, this tree is immortal and indestructible, with an estimated age of over 3000 years. The revered Akshaya Vata tree is worshipped here as a manifestation of Lord Vishnu.

The Akshayavat Temple is of considerable religious importance and is referenced in numerous ancient Hindu scriptures. It is believed that Lord Rama, accompanied by Lakshmana and Sita, visited this sacred site during his period of exile. Additionally, the temple's location along the banks of the Yamuna River in the Sangam area adds to its significance. Devotees believe that immersing themselves at the Sangam and offering prayers at the Akshayavat Temple will absolve them of sins and liberate them from the cycle of rebirth. Historical accounts from the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang also mention this temple, which at that time appeared as a mound. However, the temple and the legendary Akshaya Vata tree were submerged following the construction of a fort by Emperor Akbar.

The temple complex encompasses several shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities. The principal shrine features the ancient Akshaya Vata, beneath which an idol of Lord Vishnu is enshrined within a small cave-like structure. The interior of this cave showcases intricate carvings that illustrate events from Hindu scriptures. Another notable shrine is devoted to the Navgrahas, the nine planetary deities in Hindu astrology. Separate temples are also present for Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, and Nav Durga. The temple's walls are adorned with murals and carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The expansive courtyard provides ample space for devotees and priests to conduct rituals and prayers.

Adjacent to the temple is the Saraswati Coup or Kamyakupa, an invisible holy well that was once believed to offer salvation to those who plunged into its depths. This well was later sealed by Emperor Akbar, leaving only its covered section visible. The well is opened to the pilgrims on the occasion of annual Magh Mela and Kumbh Mela period to enable them to have its 'darshan'. It is believed that the river Saraswati disappeared at this place.

Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free