Lord Hanuman, the epitome of strength, humility, and selfless devotion, is one of the most widely worshipped deities in India. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the coastal shores of the south, these ten temples are not just religious sites—they are centers of immense spiritual energy and architectural wonder.
Whether you are seeking protection from obstacles or looking to deepen your spiritual journey, here are the top 10 Hanuman temples to add to your bucket list.
1. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple (Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh)
Established by the saint-poet Tulsidas (the author of Ramcharitmanas) in the 16th century, this temple is located on the banks of the Assi River.
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Significance: Known as the “Reliever of Troubles.” The idol is unique as it faces Lord Rama, whom Hanuman worshipped eternally.
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Best Time: Tuesday and Saturday evenings for the soul-stirring Aarti.
2. Hanuman Garhi (Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh)
It is believed that one must visit Hanuman Garhi before visiting the Ram Mandir. This temple is built like a fort and requires climbing 76 steps.
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Legend: Lord Hanuman stayed here to guard Ayodhya after Lord Rama returned from Lanka.
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Highlight: The 10th-century architecture and the panoramic view of the holy city.
3. Jakhu Temple (Shimla, Himachal Pradesh)
Perched atop the highest peak in Shimla, this temple is home to a 108-foot-tall statue of Hanuman that towers above the deodar trees.
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Legend: Hanuman is said to have rested here while searching for the Sanjeevani herb.
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Experience: A scenic 2km uphill trek or a ropeway ride with breathtaking Himalayan views.
4. Salasar Balaji Temple (Salasar, Rajasthan)
Unlike most idols, the Hanuman idol here features a beard and a mustache, depicting him in his adult form as ‘Balaji.’
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Significance: Known for fulfilling the wishes of devotees. Millions flock here during the Chaitra Purnima and Ashvin Purnima festivals.
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Vibe: Deeply traditional with a massive focus on community service and daan (charity).
5. Mehandipur Balaji Temple (Dausa, Rajasthan)
This temple is globally famous for its rituals related to healing and the removal of negative energies.
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Atmosphere: Intense and powerful. It is one of the few places where ‘exorcism’ rituals are still observed by those seeking relief from spiritual ailments.
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Pro Tip: Visitors are traditionally advised not to look back after leaving the temple and not to take any prasad home.
6. Kashtbhanjan Hanuman Mandir (Sarangpur, Gujarat)
Located in the Botad district, this temple is dedicated to Hanuman as the “Crusher of Sorrows.”
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History: The idol was installed by Gopalanand Swami. Legend says when he touched the idol with a rod, it came alive and moved.
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Specialty: Shani Dev (Saturn) is depicted sitting at Hanuman’s feet, symbolizing that Hanuman protects his devotees from the ill effects of Shani.
7. Prachin Hanuman Mandir (Connaught Place, Delhi)
One of the oldest temples in the capital, believed to date back to the era of the Mahabharata.
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World Record: The temple has maintained a continuous 24/7 chant of “Shri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram” since August 1, 1964.
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Unique Feature: A rare crescent moon on the temple’s spire (shikhara), gifted by a Mughal emperor.
8. Bade Hanuman Ji / Lete Hanuman (Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh)
Located near the Sangam (confluence of three rivers), this temple features a massive 20-foot reclining idol of Hanuman.
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Legend: After burning Lanka, a tired Hanuman rested here. It is the only temple in the world where the idol is in a lying position.
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Spiritual Fact: During the monsoon, when the Ganga rises and touches the feet of the idol, it is considered a highly auspicious event.
9. Bala Hanuman Temple (Jamnagar, Gujarat)
Famous for its “Akhand Ram Dhun,” this temple holds a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.
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The Record: Devotees have been chanting the Ram Mantra continuously without a second’s break since 1964.
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Vibe: The energy of the constant chanting creates a meditative atmosphere that is truly unique.
10. Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple (Namakkal, Tamil Nadu)
This temple features one of the tallest Hanuman statues in India, standing at 18 feet, carved out of a single stone.
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Unique Feature: The temple has no roof (open to the sky) because the idol is so tall.
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Darsan: The idol is always facing the Narasimha temple located nearby, symbolizing eternal service.
