Patalpuri Temple

About Temple

The Patalpuri Temple, located beneath the ramparts of Allahabad Fort in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is a rare underground sanctuary dedicated to multiple Hindu deities. Its name comes from the Sanskrit word “Patal,” meaning underground, reflecting its unique subterranean setting. The temple is renowned for the Akshaya Vat, the sacred “eternal banyan tree,” believed to never die. With its mystical ambiance, intricate idols, and divine aura, Patalpuri Temple is a revered pilgrimage site attracting devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.

History of the temple

The temple traces its origins to the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar (1583) during the construction of Allahabad Fort. Religious texts mention that Lord Ram, Sita, and Laxman visited this sacred place, with Sita herself worshipping the Akshaya Vat. Even the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang referenced the temple, describing its outer courtyard and the spiritual significance of the Akshaya Vat for devotees seeking salvation.

Significance of the temple

Patalpuri Temple is considered highly auspicious due to its association with divine figures and its underground sanctum, which fosters a serene and devotional atmosphere. The Akshaya Vat tree symbolizes eternal life, prosperity, and spiritual protection. Devotees believe that worshipping here helps remove obstacles, grants blessings, and strengthens faith. The eternally burning lamp in the temple represents the constant presence of divine energy, inspiring devotion and reverence.

Architecture of the temple

The temple’s architecture is unique, blending spiritual symbolism with practical design. Devotees descend a flight of stairs from Allahabad Fort to reach the underground sanctum. The entrance is marked by a majestic Maa Kali idol, and the sacred Akshaya Vat welcomes visitors with its sprawling roots. The inner galleries house idols of numerous deities, including Shri Ram, Mata Sita, Laxman, Annapurna Devi, Bhairav Baba, Lord Shani, Saraswati Mata, Valmiki Rishi, and Lord Narasimha, creating a spiritually immersive environment for devotees.

Temple Timings

Timing

Temple timings

07:00 AM - 06:30 PM

Timing

Morning Aarti timings

07:00 AM - 08:00 AM

Timing

Evening Aarti timings

06:00 PM - 06:30 PM

Offerings of the temple

At Patalpuri Temple, devotees offer fruits, dry fruits, besan laddoos, and pedas to the deities.

Travel Details

The below are the travel details for the temple

Travel Icon Airplane
The nearest airport is Bamrauli Airport (Prayagraj Airport), approximately 117 km from the temple. Taxis and private vehicles are available for convenient travel.
Allahabad Junction is the closest railway station, about 7 km from the temple. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses connect the station to the temple.
The temple is well connected via city roads and highways. Visitors can reach the temple easily using private cars, taxis, or state-run buses, as it is centrally located within Prayagraj city.

Social Media

Social media associated with the temple