The divine Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir is a prominent Hindu religious complex devoted to the worship of Lord Hanuman, located in the revered city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Founded by renowned saint Shri Goswami Tulsidas ji near the mythic Assi river, this sacred temple is often referred to as Monkey Temple due to its abundance of primates within its grounds.
Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, a great educationist and pivotal freedom fighter who founded the Banaras Hindu University, spurred forth the construction of Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir Varanasi in the early 1900s. His ambition was to generate an atmosphere of reverence and commitment among all people while further solidifying India’s patriotic spirit.
The great saint Tulsidas is believed to have erected the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir Varanasi in earlier days as a tribute to the monkey god. It’s well known that Tulsidas composed ‘Ramcharitmanas’, an illustrious Hindu epic depicting Lord Rama’s worldly experiences, and regard for Hanuman is exceptionally high since he chose an unwavering path of celibacy devoted solely towards Ramachandra.
Every April, the temple throws ‘Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh’, a grand music and dance festival that has been in progress for over 88 years. This prestigious occasion invites celebrated classical musicians and dancers from all parts of India to perform on stage with many dignitaries gracing the event yearly. Women have also played an integral role in this annual celebration by taking part in its cultural proceedings.
Every year, the birthday of Hanuman is commemorated with great zeal in the Durga Temple as Hanuman Jayanthi. Thousands of devotees assemble for a special Shobha Yatra to honor this historic day and participate in a grand procession full of enthusiasm.
The temple is available to all guests on a daily basis, with two sessions throughout the day: from 5 AM-12 PM and 3 PM-12 AM. Come visit anytime – no matter the season!
By Air
The closest airport to Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir is Varanasi, located just 23 km away. From here you can get to the temple without difficulty by using public transport or a taxi.
By Train
The nearest railway station from this temple is Varanasi Junction railway station which is at a distance of 11 km from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.
By Road
Easily access this temple from any part of the nation, as its roads are conveniently connected to other cities. You can get here with local transportation or through a taxi service quickly and effortlessly.