How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Prayagraj, India
1. Mahabodhi Temple
Historic Buddhist temple where Gautama Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment. Avoid crowds and high prices by visiting early in the morning or late evening.
- Early Visit: Visiting during sunrise or sunset avoids tourist crowds.
- Local Shops: Avoid shopping in shops near the temple, opt for local markets instead.
- Guidebooks: Use reliable guidebooks or online resources to plan your visit.
2. Sangam
The confluence of Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers. Escaping tourist traps requires knowing the authentic local eateries nearby.
- Local Food Spots: Ask locals for recommended food spots near Sangam.
- Authentic Experience: Look for small, family-run restaurants to get an authentic dining experience.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds and high prices.
3. Allahabad Fort
A historical fort built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Avoid overpriced souvenirs by knowing what to expect.
- Expected Prices: Research average prices of souvenirs before purchasing.
- Local Markets: Buy souvenirs from local markets instead of shops near the fort.
- Early or Late Visit: Visit early in the morning or late evening to avoid crowds and higher prices.
4. Anand Bhavan
Residence of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Avoiding tourist traps requires careful planning and awareness.
- Advance Booking: Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
- Local Transport: Use local transportation to reach Anand Bhavan instead of tourist taxis.
- Guided Tours: Consider a guided tour for a more informative visit.
5. Triveni Sangam Ghat
Holy bathing ghats where the rivers meet. Avoid tourist traps by being aware of common scams.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering to help with bathing rituals or charging for photos.
- Local Guides: Hire a local guide for authentic information about the ghat.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds and higher prices.
6. Vishwanath Temple
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Avoiding tourist traps requires careful planning and budgeting.
- Advance Booking: Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the temple instead of tourist taxis.
- Budgeting: Research average prices for offerings and avoid overpaying.
7. Chaursathi Yogini Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. Avoid tourist traps by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the temple instead of tourist taxis.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering 'blessings' or charging for photos.
8. Prayagraj Fort
A historic fort built by Raja Bir Singh Deo. Avoid tourist traps by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the fort instead of tourist taxis.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering 'guided tours' or charging for photos.
9. Bade Hanuman Mandir
A large temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Avoid tourist traps by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the temple instead of tourist taxis.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering 'blessings' or charging for photos.
10. Khajuriah Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Avoid tourist traps by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the temple instead of tourist taxis.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering 'blessings' or charging for photos.
11. Nag Mandir
A temple dedicated to Lord Nag (Snake God). Avoid tourist traps by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the temple instead of tourist taxis.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering 'blessings' or charging for photos.
12. Triveni Ghat
A ghat located at the Triveni Sangam where the rivers meet. Avoid tourist traps by being aware of common scams.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering to help with bathing rituals or charging for photos.
- Local Guides: Hire a local guide for authentic information about the ghat.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds and higher prices.
13. Marian Shrine
A Roman Catholic shrine dedicated to Mary. Avoid tourist traps by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the shrine instead of tourist taxis.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering 'blessings' or charging for photos.
14. Chandrashekhar Azad Park
A beautiful park dedicated to the freedom fighter Chandrashekhar Azad. Avoid tourist traps by being aware of common scams.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering 'tours' or charging for photos.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the park instead of tourist taxis.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds and higher prices.
15. Kali Bari Temple
A temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Avoid tourist traps by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid tourist crowds.
- Local Transportation: Use local transportation to reach the temple instead of tourist taxis.
- Scam Awareness: Be cautious of people offering 'blessings' or charging for photos.