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Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport -VNS
Varanasi
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The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is one of the most revered temples in Varanasi. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a prominent figure in Hindu mythology known for his strength and devotion. Located on the banks of the Assi River, this temple attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year. The peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance of the temple make it a must-visit place for anyone traveling to Varanasi.
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple was established by the famous Indian philosopher and musician, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya in the 20th century. It is believed that Lord Hanuman himself resides here to remove the sufferings of his devotees. The temple’s name, Sankat Mochan, means "the remover of troubles." Devotees come here to seek blessings for overcoming personal challenges, obstacles, and hardships.
The temple is beautifully built with intricate carvings and sculptures, showcasing scenes from Hindu mythology. The main deity, Lord Hanuman, is seen seated in a relaxed posture, his eyes filled with compassion for his devotees.
The temple follows traditional Hindu rituals, and a visit here offers a glimpse into the spiritual culture of Varanasi. Devotees offer prayers, light incense sticks, and chant mantras to invoke Lord Hanuman’s blessings. The temple also witnesses frequent bhajans (devotional songs) and kirtans (group prayers) in honor of Lord Hanuman. The chanting of the sacred mantra "Jai Hanuman" fills the air, creating a soothing and devotional atmosphere.
An important ritual at the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is the offering of prasad (sacred food offerings) to the deity. The prasad usually consists of sweets and fruits. Visitors can also participate in the aarti (ritual of worship) that takes place in the morning and evening.
The best time to visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is during the early morning or late evening hours. These times offer a more peaceful experience, allowing visitors to connect with the divine without the heavy crowds. If you are planning to visit during peak tourist season, which is from October to March, you can expect more visitors, especially during festivals like Hanuman Jayanti and Diwali.
As the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is a religious site, it is essential to dress modestly. Men should wear trousers or long pants, and women should avoid wearing short skirts or sleeveless tops. It is also recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as there may be a bit of walking to do around the temple grounds. Since you will be walking through crowded areas, it’s a good idea to wear footwear that is easy to remove, as it’s customary to remove shoes before entering the temple.
When visiting the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, it’s advisable to carry a few essentials. A bottle of water is essential to stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during hot weather. If you plan to offer prasad or incense sticks, you can purchase them from the temple shops nearby. Carrying a camera is also a good idea to capture the beauty of the temple, but remember to be respectful when taking photos.
While visiting the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, avoid carrying large bags or items that might not be allowed inside the temple. Many temples in Varanasi do not allow the use of electronic devices during prayer times, so it’s a good idea to leave valuables like tablets, laptops, and expensive jewelry at your hotel or in a safe place. Additionally, avoid carrying plastic bags or anything that could disrupt the sanctity of the temple.
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is centrally located in Varanasi, making it easily accessible from major tourist spots. It is approximately 4 kilometers from the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is one of the main attractions in the city. The temple is also just a short distance from other important places like the Assi Ghat and the Banaras Hindu University. Visitors can easily plan a day to visit these nearby attractions after they are done at the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
While the temple itself does not have any dining facilities, there are several small food stalls and restaurants around the area where visitors can try local Varanasi cuisine. Popular options include chaat (Indian street snacks), lassi (a yogurt-based drink), and sweets like kachori and jalebi. If you prefer more formal dining, there are a number of restaurants in Varanasi that serve both local and international cuisine.
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is easily accessible by public transport. Local rickshaws and auto-rickshaws are available throughout the city and can take you directly to the temple. The Varanasi Junction Railway Station is about 6 kilometers away, and the city bus station is also well connected to the temple. You can use taxis, rickshaws, or even walk to explore nearby attractions.
Some of the nearby attractions you can visit after touring the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple include:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Known as the spiritual heart of Varanasi, it is one of the most significant Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Assi Ghat – One of the prominent ghats in Varanasi, offering scenic views of the Ganges River.
Banaras Hindu University – A prestigious university with a beautiful campus and museums to explore.
Dashashwamedh Ghat – Famous for its grand evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, held every day.
A typical visit to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the crowd and the rituals taking place at the time of your visit. If you choose to attend the aarti or participate in the bhajan sessions, your visit may last a bit longer.
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is open every day, from early morning until late evening. The temple generally opens at 5:00 AM and closes around 9:00 PM. The aarti ceremonies are typically held at 6:00 AM and 7:00 PM, and it’s during these times that the temple sees the highest number of visitors. It’s a good idea to arrive early if you wish to enjoy a quieter experience or if you want to catch the morning aarti.
