Lying on the outskirts of Prayagraj, the Patalpuri Temple is among the most prominent spiritual sites in the city. A unique underground shrine, it houses idols of several gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon. The highlight of this temple is the Akshaya Vat or the immortal banyan tree. Locals believe that in ancient times devotees would give up their lives from the tree as they believed it would help them attain salvation. The practice has long stopped and the tree is now a revered site. This temple, according to mythology, was once visited by Lord Rama, and also finds mention in the works of Chinese pilgrim Hsan-tsang from when he visited the site. The temple lies in close proximity to the Prayagraj Fort.