Hanuman Temples in India
India is home to numerous temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the ardent devotee of Lord Rama. These temples are not only places of worship but also hold historical and cultural significance. Here are ten must-visit Hanuman temples in India:
1. Jakhoo Temple, Himachal Pradesh
Located in Shimla, Jakhoo Temple is situated at an altitude of 8100 feet. It boasts a gigantic 108-feet tall statue of Lord Hanuman, which can be seen from various parts of Shimla. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene environment for devotees.
2. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Varanasi
Situated by the Assi river in Varanasi, this temple is one of the holiest Hanuman temples in India. It is believed that the idol of Lord Hanuman here was revealed by the penance of Goswami Tulsidas. The temple attracts thousands of devotees every year.
3. Mahavir Mandir, Patna
Mahavir Mandir in Patna is one of the most famous Hanuman temples in India. The temple houses two idols of Lord Hanuman, one to fulfill the desires of good people and the other to destroy the wicked. The temple also has a stone from the Rama Setu that floats in water.
4. Shri Bala Hanuman Temple, Jamnagar
Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, this temple is known for its continuous chanting of “Sri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram” since 1964, earning it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. The temple is situated near the Ranmal Lake and is a major attraction for devotees.
5. Kashtbhanjan Hanuman Temple, Sarangpur
This temple in Sarangpur, Gujarat, is dedicated to Lord Hanuman in the form of Kashtbhanjan (remover of sorrows). The temple is known for its unique idol of Hanuman with Shani Dev (Saturn) at his feet. It is believed that worshipping here can remove Shani doshas (afflictions).
6. Hanuman Dhara, Chitrakoot
Located on a steep hillside in Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh, Hanuman Dhara is a temple complex dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is situated on a cliff and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. It is believed that Lord Hanuman rested here after setting Lanka on fire.
7. Hanuman Mandir, Allahabad
Also known as Bade Hanuman Ji Temple, this temple in Allahabad is unique as it houses a reclining idol of Lord Hanuman. The temple is located near the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, and is a popular pilgrimage site.
8. Hanumangadhi, Ayodhya
Hanumangadhi temple in Ayodhya is one of the most celebrated Hanuman temples in North India. Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama, and the temple is believed to be the place where Hanuman guards the city. The temple complex is always bustling with devotees.
9. Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple, Tamil Nadu
Located in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, this temple is famous for its 18-feet tall idol of Lord Hanuman. The temple is situated on the foothills of the Namakkal Fort and is a significant pilgrimage site for Hanuman devotees.
10. Paritala Anjaneya Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Paritala Anjaneya Temple near Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, is home to the tallest statue of Lord Hanuman in the world, standing at 135 feet. The temple is a major attraction for tourists and devotees alike.
These temples are not only places of worship but also offer a glimpse into India’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Each temple has its unique significance and attracts devotees from all over the country. Whether you are a religious traveler or a tourist, these Hanuman temples are worth a visit.
