Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir — “the temple of Hanuman who removes all troubles” — is one of the most revered Hanuman temples in India, situated in the holy city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The current temple structure was built in the early 1900s, and the temple is deeply connected to the poet-saint Tulsidas. It draws devotees throughout the year and is known both for religious significance and for its annual classical music festival.
Quick Facts
- Address: Sankat Mochan Road, Saket Nagar, Nagwa Lanka, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
- Phone: +91-0542-231-3884 (verify — may have changed)
- Temple Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (verify directly as timings may change)
- Location: By the Assi river, near Durga Temple and the New Vishwanath Temple within the Banaras Hindu University campus
History
The present temple structure was built in the early 1900s by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya — educationist, freedom fighter, and founder of Banaras Hindu University.
According to legend, the temple was originally founded by Tulsidas, the author of the Ram Charita Manas (the Awadhi retelling of the Ramayana), after he received a vision of Lord Hanuman at this spot in the late 1500s CE. The founding by Tulsidas is a traditional account.
The Deity
The temple has a distinctive feature: the idol of Lord Hanuman faces the idol of Lord Rama — an expression of Hanuman’s unceasing devotion to Ram. Prasad offered by devotees includes desi ghee ke besan ke ladoo and sindoor applied to the idol.
Astrological Significance
Worshippers with difficult Saturn (Shani) placements in their horoscopes visit this temple as one of the most important sites for seeking Hanuman’s intercession. Some astrologers also associate Hanuman’s worship with relieving the ill effects of Mars (Mangal) and other planets. These are traditional astrological and religious beliefs.
Festivals and Events
- Hanuman Jayanti: A shobha yatra (procession) runs from Durgakund, adjacent to the Durga Temple, to Sankat Mochan.
- Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh: An annual classical music and dance festival held in April. The festival is one of North India’s most celebrated classical music events, drawing musicians from across the country. As recorded in the existing content (written circa 2016), the festival has been running for over a century. The current edition count should be verified.
How to Reach
- By Air: Varanasi Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport)
- By Rail: Varanasi Junction — well connected nationally
- By Road: Bus services from cities across India; local travel by rickshaw or taxi