The city of Ayodhya is blessed with hundreds of temples. However, if you haven't visited Hanuman Gadi on your trip, you have missed almost everything. Located 350 m from Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Gadi is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman or Bajrangbali.
The remarkable masterpiece is located at a certain height above sea level, from where we can witness a scenic view of the nearby city temples. Devotees from around the world visit Ayodhya to witness this temple and climb 74 stairs to get to the top.
But this is not it! There is more to this remarkable spiritual shrine; let’s read ahead and find out!
Hanuman Garhi History | A Spiritual Odyssey!
The history of Hanuman Garhi extends back to the 1800s when the land was handed to Abhayaram Das. Beginning in 1722, several rulers like Saadat Khan, Safdarjung, and Shuja-Ud-Daulah supported the temple construction completed in 1799. Further, in 1855, the temple was attacked by Sunni attacks, but the Nawab of Awadh saved it.
Further, several renovations have been done to the temple to make it more attractive. Vikramaditya also played a key role in the construction of the temple.
Exploring the Stunning Hanuman Garhi Architecture!
The architecture of this stunning landmark in Ayodhya has several striking features, as follows!
- The temple has the shape of a fort with four sides, each side having a circular rampart.
- Devotees have to climb 74 stairs to reach the temple.
- The inner sanctum, aka Garbha Griha, is accessible via three doors.
- Inside the temple is a statue of Mata Anjani with a 6-inch deity of Lord Hanuman in a young (Bal) avatar sitting on her lap.
- Hanuman Chalisa is inscribed all over the walls of the temple.
- The temple also has a victory pillar brought by Hanuman from Lanka as a sign of Shri Ram's victory. It is known as Vijay Stambh
Understanding the Hanuman Garhi Significance!
Ayodhya is the birthplace of Prince Ram, and Hanuman, being the top devotee of lord Rama, has his residence in Hanuman Garhi.
The cultural significance of Hanuman Garhi lies in the fact that devotees visit this temple before visiting the major Ram Janambhoomi temple.
It is believed that before devotees take a dip in the Saryu River, they have to seek permission from lord Hanuman.
Hanuman Garhi Nearby Attractions and Festivals
The city of Ayodhya celebrates several festivals at the Hanuman Garhi temple. Some of the primary ones are Diwali, Chotti Diwali (the birth festivity of Hanuman), and Ram Navami.
The hype and enthusiasm of people for these festivals are sky-high.
If you are looking for places or nearby attractions of Hanuman Garhi. Here are some of them!
1. Ramjanma Bhoomi
One of the closest places to visit near Hanuman Garhi is Ram Janmabhoomi temple. The newly constructed temple was inaugurated on January 22, 2024. Having a grandeur design, the temple houses some of the exotic sculptures of Hindu gods. It is located on river Sarayu and is a serene spot for visitors.
2. Kanak Bhawan
Kanak Bhavan is one of the primary elements of Ayodhya, which Sri Vrishbhan Dharma Setu Trust Private Limited currently manages. The temple was a gift to Lord Rama and goddess Sita from this stepmother, Kaikeyi. In the sanctum sanctoram, there are two God statues with gold crowns under a silver roof. It is also the reason the temple is called Sone Ka Ghar.
3. Ram Katha Park
If you are with your parents who are fond of devotional, cultural, and religious events, dance, poetry, and Katha recitals, Ram Katha Park is the ideal location for them. Fit for tourists and locals alike, the park is a spot that hosts open-air theatres and music performances.
4. Sita Ki Rasoi
Sita Ki Rasoi is an authentic kitchen with utensils used by Goddess Sita. Located just near Ram Janmabhoomi, the kitchen offers free food to the needy. As Goddess Sita is known as Annapurna, the Secret site has Ram, Lakshman, and Hanuman idols with clothes and embellishments. After having a satisfactory meal here, you can explore these Idols. As per your wish, you can also make donations to the kitchen.
5. Treta Ke Thakur
Treta Ke Thakur is a location in Ayodhya that you can visit only during the Ekadashi festival. The location is beside a river where you will find several sculptures of Ram, Lakshman, Hanuman, Sugreev, and more. All the structures are made from a single black sandstone. If you arrive here on Ekadashi, you will witness the most enthusiastic celebrations.
Best Time to Visit Hanuman Garhi
The best time to visit Hanuman Garhi in Ayodhya is during the early morning hours or in the evening. Visiting during these times allows you to avoid the heat of the day and experience a more serene and peaceful atmosphere for worship and exploration. Additionally, if you prefer to avoid crowds, weekdays are generally quieter compared to weekends and holidays. However, it's essential to check the specific opening hours of Hanuman Garhi as they may vary throughout the year due to religious festivals or events.
Hanuman Garhi Entrance Fee And Visiting Hours
Hanuman Garhi is open to all and has no entrance fees. However, specific Hanuman Garhi visiting hours vary based on the season.
For example, in the summer, the visiting hours of the temple are 7:30 AM. to 11:30 AM. & 4:30 PM. to 9:30 PM.
In the winter, the visiting hours are 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. & 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. You can easily visit and seek darshan in these time frames.
How to Reach Hanuman Garhi?
Since Ram Mandir’s consecration ceremony on 22nd Jan, 24, Ayodhya witnessed heavy footfall of devotees and visitors from all parts of the country. The city is well-connected by major means of transport.
- By Air. You can reach Hanuman Garhi from Maharishi Valmiki Airport, which is 15 km away.
- By Train. The nearest railway station is Ayodhya Dham railway station. After disembarking from the train, you can walk or take a rickshaw or a cab to Hanuman Garhi which is only 900 m away from the railway station.
- By Bus. The Ram Katha Park bus stand is the nearest bus stand to Hanuman Garhi. The nearest stop is 1.9 to 3 km away.
So, if you plan to visit Ayodhya, Hanuman Garhi is a must-visit spot. As this trip may require proper planning, you can leave that to us.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hanuman Garhi!
Q.1 What is the significance of Hanuman Garhi in Ayodhya?
A. Hanumangadi in Ayodhya is the residence of Lord Hanuman, and it is a place that people visited before Ram Janmabhoomi.
Q.2 What is the history behind the construction of the Hanuman Garhi temple?
A. Construction of the Hanuman Gadhi temple started in the 1800s and was supported by all the rulers until its completion in 1799. Sunni attackers even attacked it but were saved by the Nawab of Awadh.
Q.3 Can visitors climb the 76 steps to reach the Hanuman Garhi temple?
A. Yes, the devotees of Lord Hanuman can easily climb the flight of 76 stairs to the temple.
Q.4 Are there any specific rituals or offerings associated with Hanuman Garhi?
A. The rituals of Hanuman Ghari are simple, including the chanting of Hanuman Chalisa, taking a holy dip in the river and offering a garland of flowers to Lord Hanuman.
Q.5 Is there a particular time of the year when Hanuman Garhi is most crowded with devotees?
A. Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Navami, and Diwali are common events that make this place easily crowded.
