Credit: Kriti Gupta
Hanuman Garhi Temple is one of the most popular religious sites that is located in Nainital, Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Hanuman, who is also known as Maruti, which is a symbol of wisdom, strength, and agility.
In this article, we will provide you with information that will tell you about the history, architecture, and significance of the temple. After reading the whole article, you will get all the practical information, such as directions, admission fees, and opening hours, to help you plan your visit.
History of Hanuman Garhi Temple
The history of the temple dates back to when it was built by Neem Karoli Baba in the 1950s on a hilltop in Nainital. Neem Karoli Baba was a popular saint who was known for his miracles and healing powers. Before the establishment of the temple, Neem Karoli Baba meditated at this place for a year. He was so absorbed in meditation that all the trees and forest around him started chanting with him.
He organized kirtan and Bhandara at the site after hearing trees and the Lord chanting the name of Ram. During Bhandara, there was a shortage of ghee, so Baba Neem Karoli put a canister of water in the pan, which turned miraculously into ghee. This whole incident made the temple a sacred place for the people of Nainital, which was later renamed Hanuman Garhi.
Temple is believed to be located at a point where Lord Hanuman rested while he was searching for Sanjeevani herb to save Lord Ram’s brother Lakshmana.
The architecture of Hanuman Garhi Temple
The octagonal shape of the temple represents the eight siddhis, or supernatural powers, of Lord Hanuman. Made up of white marble, the temple is surrounded by lush mountains. The main entrance of the temple has a beautiful archway that leads to the flight of stairs and takes to the temple’s main hall
The temple is home to the gods. Rama, Sita, Shiva, Neem Karoli Baba, Sai Baba, Hanuman,, and Maa Mouni are all worshiped at the temple.
The temple has a large idol of Hanuman that is covered with a beautiful umbrella. It looks like a perfect blend of traditional and modern styles.
During Ram Navami and Hanuman Jayanti, temples are crowded with devotees. They pay homage, show respect, and take part in the celebrations.
Timing
5 am – 12 pm
4 pm – 9 pm
Nearby famous places
Shitala Devi Temple and the Ashram of Lila Sah Bapu are other places that you can explore in the vicinity, They are easily accessible by road.
How to Reach Hanuman Garhi Temple
By Road: The most convenient way to reach Hanuman Garhi Temple is by road. Nainital is well connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and other nearby states. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Delhi, Haridwar, or other nearby cities to reach Nainital. From there, you can take a taxi or a shared Jeep to reach Hanuman Garhi Temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is about 35 km away from the city. It is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Dehradun. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hanuman Garhi Temple.
By Air: The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 68 km away from the city. It is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hanuman Garhi Temple.