Famous Hanuman Temples to Visit in India
India is home to numerous Hanuman temples, reflecting the deep reverence for this deity in Hindu culture. Here are some of the most famous Hanuman temples to visit in India:
1. Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya
Located in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, Hanuman Garhi is a major pilgrimage site. The temple is situated on a hilltop and features a magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman. Devotees believe that Hanuman protects Ayodhya from all evil. So this is one of the most famous Hanuman temples to visit in India.
2. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Varanasi
This temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, was founded by the famous poet-saint Tulsidas, who authored the Ramcharitmanas. The temple is believed to grant relief from troubles and obstacles, hence the name “Sankat Mochan.”
3. Hanuman Temple, Connaught Place, Delhi
One of the oldest Hanuman temples in India, it is said to date back to the era of the Mahabharata. The temple is famous for its unique architecture and the continuous chanting of “Sri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram.”
4. Jakhoo Temple, Shimla
Located at Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, this temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The temple is known for its giant Hanuman statue, seen from various parts of Shimla.
5. Salasar Balaji, Rajasthan
Salasar Balaji, located in Churu district of Rajasthan, is a major pilgrimage center. The temple is dedicated to Balaji, another name for Hanuman, and attracts millions of devotees, especially during the fairs held in Chaitra (March-April) and Ashwin (September-October).
6. Mahavir Mandir, Patna
Located in Patna, Bihar, this temple is one of the holiest Hanuman temples in the region. The temple sees a massive influx of devotees, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, considered auspicious for Hanuman worship.
7. Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple, Tamil Nadu
Situated in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, this temple is known for its towering 18-foot-tall idol of Hanuman. The temple also has a shrine dedicated to Lord Narasimha, another incarnation of Vishnu.
8. Karmanghat Hanuman Temple, Hyderabad
This ancient temple, located in Hyderabad, Telangana, is known for its powerful deity. According to legend, the Karmanghat Hanuman temple was established during the Kakatiya dynasty in the 12th century.
9. Shri Hanuman Temple, Jamnagar
Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, this temple is famous for having a continuously chanting congregation of devotees singing Hanuman Chalisa. It is believed to be the only temple where Hanuman Chalisa is recited around the clock.
10. Hanuman Tok, Gangtok
This temple in Gangtok, Sikkim, is situated at an elevation of 7,200 feet. The serene and scenic location of the temple offers a peaceful environment for devotees.
These famous Hanuman temples are not just places of worship but also reflect the rich cultural and historical heritage of India.