Hanuman Jayanti 2026: Hanuman Janmotsav—popularly known as Hanuman Jayanti—is being celebrated on April 2, 2026. This festival symbolizes the devotion and power of Lord Hanuman. On this special occasion, massive crowds of devotees flock to famous Hanuman temples across the country. If you are planning to seek *darshan* (sacred sight) and offer prayers to Bajrang Bali during Hanuman Janmotsav, read on to discover some of the most renowned and ancient Hanuman temples in the country.

Visiting certain miraculous temples on Hanuman Jayanti is considered highly auspicious. This not only strengthens one's religious faith but also infuses positive energy into one's life. Please keep in mind that temples may be particularly crowded on Hanuman Jayanti. To avoid the rush, plan to visit early in the morning. Prepare your *puja* (worship) materials in advance, and also explore options for online *darshan* or live broadcasts.

In this article, learn about some of the most famous and miraculous Hanuman temples.

**Famous Hanuman Temples in India**

**Salasar Balaji Temple, Rajasthan**
Located in Rajasthan, this temple is one of the most celebrated Hanuman temples in the country. It is revered globally as a *Jagrit Dham*—a place where the divine presence is believed to be ever-awake and active. Here, the idol of Lord Hanuman is unique in that it features a beard and a mustache. Legend has it that Lord Hanuman appeared in a dream to Saint Mohandas, instructing him to locate the idol and bring it to Salasar. The idol subsequently emerged from the earth in the village of Asota (near Nagaur) after being struck by the plow of a Jat farmer. Another popular belief associated with the temple is that the *Akhand Dhuna* (eternal sacred fire)—lit over 300 years ago—continues to burn to this day.

If you wish to visit for *darshan*, the nearest airport to the Churu district (where the temple is located) is Jaipur Airport, situated approximately 170 km away. The remainder of the journey can be completed by bus or taxi. The Sikar Railway Station is located 55 km from the temple, while Ratangarh is approximately 60 km away. Devotees believe that offering a coconut at this temple fulfills one's wishes.

**Mehandipur Balaji, Rajasthan**

The Mehandipur Balaji Temple is situated in the Dausa district of Rajasthan, where Lord Hanuman is enshrined in his *Bal Roop* (child form). Legend has it that the divine idol enshrined here was established by Lord Bajrangbali (Hanuman) himself. It is said that he appeared in a dream to the ancestors of the temple's current head priest, revealing the significance of this site, after which the temple was constructed.

At Mehandipur Balaji, alongside Lord Hanuman, devotees also worship 'Pretraj Sarkar'—the messenger of Yamraj (the God of Death)—and 'Kotwal Captain' Bhairav ​​Baba.

To reach this temple, one can take a train to Bandikui Junction, which is located approximately 35–40 kilometers from the temple complex. From there, one can proceed by taxi. Air travelers can reach the site by covering a distance of 100–110 kilometers from Jaipur Airport.

**Jakhu Temple, Shimla**

This ancient Hanuman temple is situated atop Jakhu Hill. It is home to the world's tallest statue of Lord Hanuman, standing at a height of 108 feet. The history of this temple dates back to the era of the *Ramayana*. It is believed that Lord Hanuman rested at this very spot while searching for the *Sanjeevani* herb. Legend has it that when Lord Hanuman set foot here, the hill flattened beneath him. Another prevailing belief suggests that the sage 'Yak' performed penance at this site; consequently, the place came to be known as 'Yak-Shu' or 'Jakhu'.

To visit the Jakhu Temple, one can take the Jakhu Ropeway from 'The Ridge' in Shimla, which offers the fastest route to the temple. Alternatively, one can undertake a trek of approximately two kilometers to reach the site. For traveling to Shimla, the best options are buses or road transport. From Delhi, one can also take a train to Kalka, a journey that takes about 4–5 hours. From Kalka to Shimla, one can travel aboard the historic 'Toy Train'. If you prefer air travel, the nearest airport is located in Chandigarh; from there, the journey to Shimla takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

**The 'Lete Hanuman' Temple in Prayagraj**

In the 'City of the Sangam'—Prayagraj—situated near the Triveni Sangam, stands the temple of 'Lete Hanuman' (the Reclining Hanuman), also affectionately known as 'Bade Hanuman' (The Great Hanuman). This is the only temple in the world where the deity is enshrined in a reclining posture, featuring a magnificent 20-foot-long idol. Here, Lord Hanuman is also referred to as the 'Kotwal' (Guardian) of Prayagraj. Legend has it that following the victory over Lanka, Lord Hanuman rested on the banks of the Sangam at the behest of Mother Sita. The history of the temple is said to date back 600 to 700 years.

The temple is situated within the premises of Akbar's Fort, near the Sangam; to reach it, you can cover the 7–8 km distance from Prayagraj Junction by taxi or e-rickshaw.

Hanumangarhi, Ayodhya

In Ayodhya—the birthplace of Lord Rama—stands a fortress-like cave temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Situated atop a high mound on the banks of the River Saryu, it is located in proximity to the Ram Janmabhoomi temple complex. After ascending a flight of 76 steps, devotees can seek *darshan* (sacred viewing) of Lord Hanuman in his childlike form within the temple. According to tradition, it is considered mandatory to seek permission here before proceeding to have *darshan* of Ram Lalla; therefore, one should visit Hanumangarhi before visiting the Janmabhoomi temple.

To visit Hanumangarhi, one can commence their journey from either the Ayodhya Airport or the Ayodhya Junction. The temple is situated merely one kilometer away from the railway station.

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