Doab Travel Guide (Uttar Pradesh/Plains/India/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Doab

Nestled in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, India lies Doab, a region embracing the convergence of two or three rivers, often referred to as the region between two rivers or Doab. This region offers a multi-faceted experience that caters to diverse interests, including history, culture, nature, gastronomy, and adventure. At the heart of Doab lies Allahabad or Prayagraj, one of India’s ancient and most revered cities, making it a must-visit destination for most travelers to India.

List of Places to Visit in Doab

Doab offers an array of tourist attractions that have earned it the reputation of being a cultural hub of Uttar Pradesh. Here’s a list of some of the top places to visit in Doab:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Allahabad Fort: Built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1583, the Allahabad Fort is one of the prime attractions in Doab.
Anand Bhawan Museum: A historical house museum in Allahabad City, the Anand Bhawan museum showcases the life and times of the Nehru family.
Kumbh Mela: The Kumbh Mela, a mass Hindu pilgrimage, takes place in Allahabad every twelve years and is considered to be one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
Sangam: The sangam of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers is one of the most sacred pilgrim sites in Hinduism.
Pratapgarh Palace: A historic palace in the town of Kalakankar, the Pratapgarh Palace is a fine example of Indian architecture.

Natural Attractions of Doab: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chitrakoot Falls: The Chitrakoot Falls on the Indravati River is a stunning natural wonder located around 200 km from Doab.
Vindhyachal: A revered pilgrimage site along the banks of the Ganges, Vindhyachal is a scenic spot known for its picturesque views.
Kakraha Range: The Kakraha Range is a popular destination for rock climbing, trekking, and hiking, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Doab

The Ghats of Allahabad: Take a walk along the banks of the Ganges at Allahabad, for a truly memorable experience.
Pratapgarh Trek: The Pratapgarh Trek is a challenging trek through lush forests and mountain ranges, filled with stunning natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Doab: Activities and Tours

Boat Ride along the Sangam: Take a boat ride along the Sangam at Allahabad, and experience the beauty of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.
Kumbh Mela: Experience the Kumbh Mela pilgrimage and its festivities, which attracts millions of visitors from across the world.
Nature Walk at Chitrakoot: Take a nature walk around the Chitrakoot Falls and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Doab

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary to help you get the most out of your time in Doab:

Day	Activities
1	Arrival at Allahabad and explore nearby attractions such as the Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhawan Museum.
2	Visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Vindhyachal and later spend the afternoon trekking in the Kakraha Range.
3	Experience a boat ride at Sangam and explore the surrounding historic sites.
4	Take a day trip to the ancient city of Pratapgarh and visit the Pratapgarh Palace.
5	Explore the scenic beauty of Chitrakoot Falls and take a nature walk around the area.
6	Attend the Kumbh Mela and immerse yourself in the festivities.
7	Departure from Doab.

Food and Drink Scene of Doab

Doab offers an array of gastronomical delights that cater to every taste bud. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Kababs: Doab is famous for its succulent kababs, whether it’s galouti, shami, or boti, they’re all equally lip-smacking.
Dum Pukht: A slow-cooked, aromatic biryani cooked over a low flame, is a must-try dish in Doab.

Local Beverages

Ginger Tea: The cool weather of Doab is complemented beautifully by a hot cup of ginger tea, which Doab locals swear by.
Lassi: A traditional Indian yogurt drink, Lassi, is made with exotic fruits and can be enjoyed both hot and cold.

Where to Stay in Doab: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Doab offers a variety of accommodation options to its visitors, ranging from luxurious hotels to guesthouses and backpacker-friendly hostels. Here are some recommended places to stay:

The Grand Imperial, Allahabad: A historic hotel in the heart of the city offering a regal experience to its guests.
Le Bougainvillea Guest House, Pratapgarh: A charming guesthouse with beautiful gardens and idyllic settings.

What to Buy in Doab: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Doab has plenty of shopping options, from colorful markets to modern shopping malls. Here’s a list of the popular souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

Handicrafts and Pottery: Doab is known for its intricate handicrafts and pottery made with traditional techniques.
Sweets and Snacks: A variety of sweets and snacks made with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients are available across local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Doab

Doab has a rich and diverse culture influenced by various religions and traditions, particularly Hinduism and Islam. It is common to see people celebrating festivals such as Holi, Diwali, and Eid with great fervor and enthusiasm.

Best Time to Visit Doab

The best time to visit Doab is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the region is at its cultural best. Kumbh Mela is held every twelve years, and it is considered the best time to visit Allahabad.

Do’s and Don’ts of Doab

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Take your shoes off when entering a religious place.
Dress modestly, particularly when visiting a religious place.

Don’t:

Disrespect religious customs and traditions.
Flaunt jewelry in public places with high crime rates.

Safety and Health

Safety in Doab

Doab is generally a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should take precautions against pickpocketing and petty theft.

Health in Doab

It is advisable to carry a medical kit while traveling to Doab, particularly in rural areas, as healthcare facilities may not be readily available.

Getting to Doab: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here’s a list of transportation options available for reaching Doab:

Airports Near Doab

Allahabad Airport: For domestic flights, situated about 11km from the city center.
Varanasi Airport: For domestic and international flights, situated about 130km from the city.

Bus Stations Near Doab

Allahabad Bus Station: For local and state buses, situated in the heart of the city.
Varanasi Bus Station: For local and state buses, situated about 120km from the city.

Other Options

Taxis: Taxis and private cars can be easily hired throughout Doab.
Trains: Doab is well-connected to most Indian cities by trains.

How to Get Around in Doab

Doab is well-connected by road and rail, making it easy to get around. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for hire, and organized tours can be arranged by local operators.

Where to Go Next from Doab: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here’s a list of nearby destinations that you can explore after visiting Doab:

Varanasi: A spiritual paradise on the banks of the Ganges, Varanasi is an ancient city and an unmissable destination.
Chitrakoot: Located around 200km from Doab, the quaint town of Chitrakoot is known for its beautiful waterfalls and temples.

Conclusion

Doab is a beautiful region with a rich history, culture, and natural wonders. It is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the heart of Uttar Pradesh and immerse themselves in local traditions and customs. With this guide, you’re all set to make your way to Doab and have a fantastic time!