Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
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About This Attraction
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is one of the most revered and spiritually powerful temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the remover of troubles and obstacles. The name Sankat Mochan literally means โreliever from difficulties,โ and millions of devotees visit this temple seeking peace, protection, and strength.
The temple was founded by Saint Tulsidas, the great poet-saint and author of the Ramcharitmanas. Because of this association, the temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees of Lord Rama and Hanuman. The idol of Lord Hanuman is worshipped in a calm, open, and welcoming environment, unlike many enclosed shrines.
Sankat Mochan Temple is especially known for fulfilling wishes related to health, success, and relief from personal problems. Devotees offer sweets like besan laddoos and flowers, and many return to thank the deity after their wishes are fulfilled.
The temple complex is surrounded by greenery and has a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere, making it a refreshing stop for tourists. Monkeys are commonly seen around the temple, adding to its lively character, though visitors should remain cautious.
For tourists, Sankat Mochan Temple offers more than worshipโit provides a deep cultural and devotional experience, closely connected to the Ramayana tradition and the everyday spiritual life of Varanasi. It is a must-visit for those who want to understand the faith, beliefs, and emotional devotion of the city.
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Highlights
- Dedicated to Lord Hanuman: One of the most revered Hanuman temples in India.
- Founded by Saint Tulsidas: Closely linked to the author of the Ramcharitmanas.
- Meaningful Name: Sankat Mochan means โremover of troubles,โ attracting devotees seeking relief and protection.
- Peaceful Temple Setting: Open, green surroundings create a calm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
- Wish-Fulfilling Belief: Devotees believe prayers here help overcome health, career, and personal problems.
- Strong Local Devotion: Regularly visited by locals, students, and tourists alike.
- Authentic Cultural Experience: Offers deep insight into Hanuman worship and daily spiritual life in Varanasi.
Sankat Mochan Temple is a must-visit for tourists looking to experience devotion, faith, and serenity in Varanasi.
History
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple has a rich and meaningful history deeply connected to Saint Tulsidas, the great poet-saint who authored the Ramcharitmanas. The temple is believed to have been established in the 16th century at the very place where Tulsidas had a divine vision of Lord Hanuman.
According to tradition, Saint Tulsidas founded the temple after this spiritual experience, dedicating it to Lord Hanuman as the remover of troubles (Sankat Mochan). Over time, the temple became one of the most important centers of Hanuman worship in North India.
For centuries, Sankat Mochan Temple has attracted devotees seeking strength, protection, and relief from difficulties. Today, it stands as a symbol of faith, devotion, and the enduring legacy of the Ramayana tradition, offering tourists a deep insight into the spiritual history of Varanasi.
Architecture
The architecture of Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is simple, open, and functional, reflecting humility and devotion rather than grandeur. Unlike many ancient temples with heavy carvings, this temple focuses on creating a calm and welcoming space for worshippers and visitors.
The temple complex features an open courtyard design, allowing natural light and fresh air to flow freely. The shrine of Lord Hanuman is placed in a way that devotees can have easy darshan without congestion, making the experience smooth even during busy hours.
Surrounded by trees and greenery, the temple blends naturally with its environment, giving tourists a peaceful break from the crowded streets of Varanasi. The structure follows a traditional North Indian temple layout, with clean lines and minimal decoration.
Overall, the architecture of Sankat Mochan Temple emphasizes spiritual comfort and accessibility, making it an ideal place for tourists to experience devotion in a relaxed and serene setting.
Festivals & Events
Sankat Mochan Temple becomes especially vibrant during festivals dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering tourists a lively and devotional experience rooted in local traditions.
- Hanuman Jayanti: The most important festival at the temple, celebrated with special prayers, bhajans, and large gatherings of devotees.
- Tuesdays & Saturdays: Considered highly auspicious for Hanuman worship; these days attract steady crowds and active rituals.
- Ram Navami: As the temple is closely linked to the Ramayana tradition, special prayers are held on this day.
- Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh: A famous annual classical music festival featuring renowned Indian artists, blending devotion with culture and attracting tourists from across the country.
For tourists, visiting Sankat Mochan Temple during these events offers a unique mix of spirituality, music, and local faith, making it one of the most culturally rich temple experiences in Varanasi.
Visitor Tips
Visitor Tips for Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Varanasi
- Visit Early Morning or Evening: These times are more peaceful and ideal for darshan and sightseeing.
- Be Cautious of Monkeys: Keep food, bags, and valuables secure, as monkeys are commonly seen around the temple.
- Dress Modestly: Simple and respectful clothing is recommended.
- Offerings Are Optional: Sweets like laddoos can be offered, but avoid carrying too much food.
- Visit on Tuesdays or Saturdays for Devotional Energy: Expect larger crowds but a lively spiritual atmosphere.
- Allow 30โ45 Minutes: Enough time to explore the temple and relax in its calm surroundings.
These tips will help tourists enjoy a safe, smooth, and meaningful visit to Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sankat Mochan Temple is believed to remove โsankatโ (life problems) rather than just fulfill wishes. Devotees come here specifically for mental peace, relief from fear, career obstacles, health issues, and planetary doshasโnot just ritual worship.
The temple was founded by Tulsidas, the author of Ramcharitmanas. It is believed that Lord Hanuman appeared to him at this exact spot, making the temple spiritually charged even without elaborate rituals.
Yes. Locals and long-time devotees believe the temple has a strong calming energy. Many visitors come here silently, without priests or guided puja, to sit, meditate, and mentally unburden themselves.
Unlike many temples where Hanuman is shown aggressive, the idol here represents Hanuman as a protector and problem-solver, symbolizing strength with compassion rather than power alone.
Monkeys are seen as living symbols of Lord Hanuman. Feeding them is considered auspicious, but tourists are advised to:
- Avoid carrying loose food
- Secure bags and glasses
- Maintain calm behavior
This unique coexistence adds to the templeโs living spiritual atmosphere.
Unlike typical flowers and coconuts, devotees strongly believe in offering:
- Besan laddoo
- Banana
- Boondi prasad
- These offerings are symbolic of simplicity and humility, key traits associated with Hanuman ji.
Yes, but not for the usual reasons:
- Tuesday & Saturday โ spiritually intense days for Hanuman devotees
- Hanuman Jayanti โ massive gatherings
- Evening hours are preferred for peaceful darshan rather than early mornings
The Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh is a globally respected classical music festival where:
- Legendary Indian classical artists perform
- Music is offered as bhakti (devotion), not entertainment
- This makes the temple a rare blend of spirituality and Indian cultural heritage.
Yes, and this is unique. Sankat Mochan Temple encourages personal devotion. You can:
- Sit quietly
- Offer prasad yourself
- Chant Hanuman Chalisa mentally or softly
This makes it very tourist-friendly and less intimidating.
Sankat Mochan Temple is:
- Less commercial
- More open and airy
- Less chaotic than Kashi Vishwanath
- This makes it ideal for tourists seeking authentic spiritual experiences.
The temple is located near Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in a green, peaceful area, away from the narrow lanes of old Varanasi.
Yes, it is one of the most foreigner-friendly temples in Varanasi because:
- Open campus-style layout
- No aggressive priests
- Calm surroundings
- Easy accessibility
Yes. It is commonly combined with:
- BHU campus visit
- Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
- Assi Ghat evening walk
This makes it perfect for half-day spiritual + cultural itineraries.
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