Founded in the 17th century by Azam, a descendant of the Gautam Rajputs of Mehnagar, Azamgarh is an important town of historical significance in Uttar Pradesh. Azam’s father, Vikramjit had converted to Islam and married a Mohammedan woman. Hence, Azamgarh is largely a Muslim city with strong influences of its erstwhile rulers still visible today. Later on, Azamgarh became a hub for Islamic literary scholars, theologists and poets.
Situated on the banks of the Tons River, also known as Tamsa River, the city offers many beautiful views for visiting tourists. Many arresting, imposing structures from the Rajput era are spread out across the city, giving it a royal, vintage look. Moreover, Azamgarh acts as a gateway to other historically important cities like Ayodhya, Kanpur, and Bareilly.
Nizamabad in Azamgarh is known for a lovely Gurudwara, in which there is a pair of wooden slippers that is believed to have belonged to Guru Nanak who had stayed here for a while. It is also known as the birthplace of poet Ayodhya Singh.
Located on the banks of the river, the Azamgarh fort was built during founder Azam’s time, and attracts many tourists. The fort in Mehnagar, built by King Haribans, is also a major tourist attraction in the region. A large pond with the fort premises add to its charm, and the views it offers are nothing short of spectacular. Another point of interest is Kunwar Singh Park, which serves as a great place for strolls or for an evening out.
If possible, plan your trip around the festival of Shivratri, during which a major fair takes place at Maharajganj—the name was derived from the erstwhile kings of the area. There are mythological legends regarding Lord Shiva and Parvati attached to Maharajganj as well.
The famous Thakurji temple and Raja Sahib mosque are also situated in the Azamgarh region, in Mubarakpur. Many visitors come from far and wide to seek blessings at these religious sites. Govindsahab is another religious destination in Azamgarh that is certainly worth visiting.
Durvasa is the site where the Tons River meets the Majhuee River, and the site is known for an ancient ashram, where students would study under the tutelage of their gurus beneath the shade of large trees. Here too, there is a large fair organized on the occasion of Shivratri.
Azamgarh is filled with old monuments, ancient temples and cultural fairs, greatly enhancing its appeal. Stop over at the city to explore its rich culture, before heading out on your way.
Auto-rickshaws and buses ply almost everywhere in the city of Azamgarh, and are the most commonly used modes of transport. If you crave comfort and privacy however, you’d be better off hiring a private taxi or car.
On a daily basis there are approximately 33 flights that operate at Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport.Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet are the most popular airline brands that fly frequently to this airport.
By road Azamgarh is surrounded by Maunath Bhanjan, Jalalpur, Rudrapur which are 24.77 km, 32.58 km, 37.32 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.