The Ganges is worshipped as a sacred river and on its banks are some of the holiest towns according to Hindu mythology. Apart from Haridwar & Rishikesh; Ayodha, Allahabad, Varanasi and Chitrakoot are 4 amazing mythological town near the river that can be visited to reset your mind & soul. These places associated with the legends of Ramayana and Mahabharata are visited by devotees and tourists alike for their historical and religious significance. Kanpur taxi services can be availed for outstation drop and pickup facilities to these mythological cities, if you are from Kanpur. Else, you may use different modes of transport to visit these mythological towns near the Ganges.
4 Mythological Towns Near The Ganges To Get Your Vibes Right
Ayodhya:
The birthplace of Lord Ram, Ayodhya is dotted with many archaeological sites and religious shrines. Chakravarti Maharaj Dashrath Mahal, the residence of King Dasharatha, father of Lord Ram is a good place to start with. Hanuman Garhi is a popular temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Try the besan laddoos sold in the shops nearby. Devotees throng the Nageshwaranath Temple to pray to Lord Siva. The exquisite glass inlay work of Sheesh Mahal Temple and the bejewelled idols at the Kanak Bhawan Temple will appeal to those interested in architecture as well as religion. Steeped in history are the ivory articles and rare paintings at Tulsi Smarak Bhawan.
For relaxation or meditation, visit the sprawling gardens of Tulsi Udyan or the Bharat Kund. A series of bathing ghats along the Sarayu riverfront called Ram ki Paidi make it convenient for worshippers to take a holy dip in the River Sarayu.
Allahabad:
Allahabad or Prayag is one of the venues for Kumbh Mela, the largest religious congregation of the world. Rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati merge at Prayag (Triveni Sangam) making this the most preferred place for many Hindu rituals. On the banks of the river, you will find remnants of colonial and Mughal architecture, temples and forts. The Alopi Devi Mandir is a must visit place for every devotee of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
The city is known as the birthplace of Jawaharlal Nehru. Ananda Bhawan, the Nehru family home has many rare artefacts from the Indian freedom struggle. The priceless paintings and artefacts found in Allahabad Museum and architecture of the mausoleum in the Khusro Bagh will delight every history lover.
Travellers must see the Akshaya Vat, Saraswati Kup, Jodhabai Palace, Ashokan Pillar and Patalpuri Temple located inside the premises of Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar.
Varanasi:
Varanasi is an ancient city famous for its Vishwanath temple devoted to Lord Shiva. Tales of popular legends state that Lord Shiva made Varanasi his home after marrying Parvati.
Ghats like the Dashashwamedh Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, the Manikarnika Ghat, the Panchganga Ghat and the Assi Ghat are places where funeral rites and cremation are conducted in full view. The Bharata Kala Bhavan museum has a wonderful display of old Palm leaf manuscripts. Rent a taxi in Varanasi to go around for local sightseeing.
Chitrakoot:
This divine city on the bank of river Mandakini finds mention in several Hindu scriptures as it played an important role in Lord Ram’s life. The town has many temples, all linked to the Ramayana. Temples like Bharat Milan Mandir, Param Kutir, Ram Saiyya, Valmiki Ashram, Hanuman Dhara, Sitarasoi, Janaki Kund, Ram Ghat etc. will amaze visitors. Also, visit Sphatik Shila which bears the impression of Lord Ram’s feet. Marpha with its ruins of Chandel fort, and Ganesh Bagh with its mini Khajuraho remind us of the past glory of this beautiful city.
