Are you looking for a spiritual and cultural destination that will take you back to the ancient times of the Ramayana? If yes, then you should visit Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, one of the most revered and popular temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the loyal devotee of Lord Rama, this temple is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the divine grace and blessings of the monkey god.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, including its history, legend, architecture, features, festivals, tips, and nearby attractions.
Read on to find out why this temple is a land of Lord Hanuman and how you can plan a memorable trip to this holy place.
The History and Legend of Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya
Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 10th century. According to the legend, Lord Hanuman resided at this site to guard Ramkot, the birthplace of Lord Rama, which is located nearby. It is believed that anyone who wants to worship Lord Rama must first pay homage to Lord Hanuman at this temple. The temple was built by a Hindu courtier on a piece of land donated by the Nawab of Avadh, who was a devotee of Lord Hanuman. The Nawab of Avadh also protected the temple from the Sunni attackers in the 18th century, and erected a Victory Pillar to commemorate the event. The temple has been renovated and expanded over the years by the devotees and the government, and is now one of the most visited and revered temples in India.
The Architecture and Features of Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya
Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, is a magnificent and majestic temple that showcases the beauty and grandeur of the Hindu culture and art. The temple is situated on a hilltop and can be reached by climbing a 76-staircase pathway, which is considered as a form of devotion and penance by the pilgrims. The temple has a golden idol of Mata Anjani and Bal Hanuman, which is the main attraction of the temple. The idol is said to have miraculous powers and fulfills the wishes of the devotees.
The temple also has a 6-inch idol of Hanuman, which is the original idol of the temple and is worshipped with utmost reverence. The walls and ceilings of the temple are adorned with silver carvings and paintings that depict the stories and messages of the Ramayana and the life of Lord Hanuman. The temple also has a Hanuman Chalisa, a 40-verse hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman, which is recited by the priests and the devotees throughout the day. The temple also has a Victory Pillar, which stands as a symbol of the courage and faith of Lord Hanuman and his followers.
The Festivals and Events at Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya
Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, is a place of celebration and joy, where various festivals and events are held throughout the year. The most important and auspicious occasions are Ram Navami and Hanuman Jayanti, which mark the birthdays of Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman respectively. Ram Navami is celebrated in March or April, and Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated in April or May, according to the Hindu calendar.
On these days, the temple is decorated with flowers, lights, and flags, and thousands of devotees throng the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings. The temple also organizes a grand procession and rituals at Ramkot, the birthplace of Lord Rama, where the devotees can witness the divine presence of Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman.
Other occasions, such as Diwali, Dussehra, Holi, etc., are also celebrated with joy and fervor at the temple and the city, and create a cultural and religious atmosphere that is unmatched and unforgettable.
The Tips and Suggestions for Visiting Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya
Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, is a temple that welcomes everyone with open arms and hearts, and offers a unique and enriching experience to the visitors. However, there are some tips and suggestions that you should keep in mind while visiting the temple, to make your trip smooth and hassle-free. Here are some of them:
The timings and entry fee of the temple are as follows: The temple is open from 6 am to 10 pm on all days of the week. The entry to the temple is free of cost, but you may have to pay a nominal fee for the locker facility, if you want to keep your belongings safe.
The best time to visit the temple is during the festivals of Ram Navami and Hanuman Jayanti, when you can be a part of the celebrations and witness the glory and grace of Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman. However, you should also be prepared for the crowd, security, and weather conditions, as these days are very busy and hot. Alternatively, you can visit the temple during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
The photography and videography rules and restrictions at the temple are as follows: You are allowed to take photos and videos of the temple complex and the surroundings, but you are not allowed to take photos and videos of the idols and the inner sanctum of the temple. You should also respect the privacy and sentiments of the other devotees and the priests, and refrain from disturbing them with your camera or phone.
The prasad and offerings that can be bought or brought to the temple are as follows: You can buy or bring various types of prasad and offerings to the temple, such as flowers, fruits, sweets, coconut, sindoor, etc. You can also buy or bring a red cloth or a flag, which is considered as a symbol of Lord Hanuman. You should follow the rules and etiquette for distributing and receiving the prasad and offerings, and avoid wasting or throwing them away.
The Nearby Attractions in Ayodhya
Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, is not only a temple, but also a gateway to the other attractions in Ayodhya, the holy city of Lord Rama. Ayodhya is a place of immense historical, religious, and cultural significance, and has many places of interest that you can explore and enjoy. Here are some of them:
Ramkot, the birthplace of Lord Rama, which is located near the temple, and the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, which is being constructed there. This is the most sacred and important place in Ayodhya, where you can feel the presence and power of Lord Rama and his family.
Kanak Bhawan, the palace of Lord Rama and Sita, which is located near the temple, and the beautiful idols and decorations that can be seen there. This is the place where Lord Rama and Sita spent their happy and blissful days, and where you can admire the beauty and elegance of the royal couple.
Nageshwarnath Temple, the temple of Lord Shiva, which is located near the temple, and the legend of how it was built by Lord Rama’s son Kush. This is the place where Kush lost his armlet in the river, and where a snake god retrieved it and worshipped Lord Shiva with it. The temple is also famous for its architecture and sculptures.
Other places of interest in Ayodhya, such as the Ram ki Paidi, the Guptar Ghat, the Mani Parvat, Tulsi Smarak Bhawan, etc., and the significance and attractions of each place. These are the places where you can learn more about the history, culture, and spirituality of Ayodhya, and where you can experience the diversity and vibrancy of the city.
Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, is a place that will fill your heart and soul with devotion, joy, and peace. It is a place that will connect you with the divine and the ancient, and that will inspire you with the values and virtues of Lord Hanuman and Lord Rama. It is a place that you should visit at least once in your lifetime, and that you will never forget.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya, with Tripoto, and get ready for a spiritual and cultural adventure that will change your life. And don’t forget to share your experience and feedback with us, we would love to hear from you.
Jai Shri Ram! Jai Hanuman!
