Deities in Allahabad: Who’s Worshipped and Where to Find Them

If you’ve ever wondered which gods people pray to in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), you’re in the right place. The city sits at the holy Triveni Sangam, so Hindu worship is everywhere—from massive temples to tiny shrines tucked in side streets. Below we break down the most popular deities, the top places to see them, and a few tips for visitors who want a real feel of the local faith.

Top Gods and Their Signature Shrines

Lord Hanuman (Bade Hanuman Ji) – One of the city’s favorite gods, Hanuman is revered for his strength and devotion. The Bade Hanuman Ji temple near the Sangam draws crowds especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays. You’ll hear bells, see devotees offering sweets, and maybe catch a quick prayer chant if you’re lucky.

Lord Shiva – The ancient Shiv Temple on the banks of the Ganges holds a nightly aarti that’s both loud and beautiful. Shiva’s trident and the flowing Nandi bull statue give the place a distinct vibe. If you’re around during the month of Shravan, the temple is packed with pilgrims doing the holy dip.

Goddess Saraswati – Though most people think of the river Saraswati as mythical, believers here treat the underground flow as real. The Saraswati Temple by the Sangam is modest but buzzing during Navratri when women gather for study prayers.

Lord Krishna – The Krishna Temple near the historic Civil Lines area is known for its colorful rangoli and sweet milk offerings. It’s a good spot to taste “peda” that the priests hand out after the evening aarti.

Lord Rama and Sita – The Ram Sita Temple on Ashok Marg showcases murals of the Ramayana. It’s quieter than the big Ganga-side sites but offers a calm space for families.

How to Experience the Divine Side of Allahabad

Plan your visit around a festival. Kumbh Mela is the biggest, but even smaller events like Maha Shivratri or Hanuman Jayanti give you a taste of the city’s devotion without the massive crowds.

Dress modestly—simple cotton clothes, no short sleeves for men, and women should cover shoulders. Slip off your shoes before entering any shrine; most places have shoe racks at the entrance.

Bring small cash for “naivedya” (food offerings) and “prasad” (blessed sweets). Even a 20‑rupee note goes a long way and shows respect.

Don’t be shy about asking locals for guidance. Vendors near the Sangam love to share stories about each deity and can point you to lesser‑known shrines like the tiny “Kal Bhairav” altar tucked behind a market stall.

Finally, share a moment of silence. Whether you’re a believer or just curious, sitting a few minutes near the river, listening to chants, helps you feel the spiritual pulse that runs through Allahabad’s streets.

So next time you’re in Prayagraj, skip the usual tourist checklist and make a short detour to any of these temples. You’ll walk away with more than photos—you’ll have a glimpse of the city’s heart, beating to the rhythm of its deities.