Monkey Temple Hampi Entry Fee
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Monkey Temple Hampi Address: Anjenaya Hill, Hampi, Karnataka, 583227, India
Lying 2 km away from the famous Virupaksha Temple is the Hanuman Temple. Often referred to as the Monkey Temple, the Hanuman Temple is a popular religious site that is widely renowned for its spiritual and natural charm.
Situated atop Anjaneya Hill, the Hanuman Temple offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape including the majestic ruins of Hampi. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a prominent deity in Hindu mythology who is revered as the monkey god. Hanuman is known for his loyalty, strength, and devotion, and is worshipped by millions of people across India.
To reach the Monkey Temple, visitors must climb a flight of steps that wind through the hillside. As you ascend, you are likely to encounter the temple's namesake residents—the playful and mischievous monkeys. These monkeys are considered sacred and are protected within the temple grounds.
Upon reaching the hilltop, you'll find the main shrine of Lord Hanuman. Devotees and tourists alike offer prayers and seek blessings at the temple. The atmosphere is serene and filled with spiritual energy, making it a peaceful place for introspection and reflection.
The Monkey Temple is particularly popular among trekkers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers due to its beautiful surroundings and breathtaking vistas. The sunrise and sunset views from the temple are especially captivating, casting a warm glow on the ancient ruins and the Tungabhadra River flowing nearby.
History of Monkey Temple, Hampi
The Hanuman Temple has an interesting story behind its establishment. According to legends, Sri Vyasaraja used to paint the picture of Lord Hanuman every day on the rock before offering prayers and seeking blessings from him. Once he was done with the rituals, the pictures used to disappear. It kept happening for 12 days in a row.
The next day, Sri Vyasaraja requested Lord Hanuman to appear and explain everything. To his surprise, Lord Hanuman came and blessed him. He asked Sri Vyasaraja to paint him with a 6 side amulet and then install it at the same place. This is how the Hanuman Temple came into the picture. Please note that it is also considered to be the same spot where Lord Rama and Hanuman united for the first time.
Image Gallery of Monkey Temple Hampi
Architecture of Hanuman Temple, Hampi
Featuring the Dravidian architectural style, the architecture of the Hanuman Temple is characterized by pyramid-shaped towers and intricate carvings. This style is commonly seen in South Indian temples and is known for its ornate and elaborate designs.
The innermost chamber of the Hanuman Temple houses the sanctum sanctorum where the main idol of Lord Hanuman is placed. The sanctum is usually a small, darkened space with a simple design to create an aura of reverence and spirituality.
It has a presiding deity of Lord Hanuman in a meditative position. When looking closely, one can find the carvings of 12 monkeys holding the tail of each other around the idol. These monkeys stand for the 12 days of the prayer offered by Sri Vyasaraja to Lord Hanuman.
The Hanuman Temple, like many other structures in Hampi, is predominantly made of stone. The use of stone in the construction and decoration of the temple reflects the durability and long-lasting nature of the architectural style of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Entry Fee and Timings of Monkey Temple, Hampi
There is no entry fee to visit the Monkey Temple. It is open for its visitors from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM on all days and the recommended exploration time is 1-2 hours.
Travel Tips for Hanuman Temple, Hampi
- Dress modestly and respectfully. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing.
- Remove your footwear before entering the temple premises. There are usually designated areas or shoe racks where you can leave your shoes safely.
- Carry a water bottle and some light snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during your visit. The temple premises may not have food or drink stalls nearby.
- Take care of your personal belongings. Several monkeys around the pilgrimage site try to snatch the visitors’ things.
- Photography may be allowed in certain areas of the temple, but it's always better to ask for permission before clicking pictures.
- Follow the local customs and practices when visiting the temple. Offer your prayers, light incense sticks, and seek blessings from the deity. Be respectful of the worshippers and maintain a peaceful environment.
- Consider hiring a local guide who can provide you with insights into the temple's history, significance, and interesting anecdotes. They can enhance your overall experience and help you navigate the area efficiently.
Best Time to Visit the Hanuman Temple, Hampi
The best time to visit the Hanuman Temple in Hampi is during the early morning hours. This is when the temple is less crowded and you can experience a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The temple generally opens early in the morning, so try to arrive as early as possible to avoid large crowds.
Additionally, visiting during the cooler months, from October to February, is recommended as the weather is pleasant and comfortable for exploration. During this time, Hampi experiences milder temperatures, making it more enjoyable to explore the temple and other attractions in the area.
How to Reach Monkey Temple, Hampi?
Due to its great connectivity to the neighboring areas and cities via road, Hampi can be easily accessed by people in their utmost comfort. Depending on your holiday style, you can choose to commute either via bus or hire a taxi to cover the required distance at your ease.
In Hampi, the facility of local transportation is available at reasonable prices. We have also curated a list of top car rental companies in Hampi from where you can book a cab to travel within the city whenever your mind pleases.
Book an all-inclusive Hampi tour package with us to have a great time with your near and dear ones. We at Hampi Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA, have extensive knowledge of the destination. Our team of travel experts provides valuable insights into the best places to visit in Hampi, local customs and traditions, and hidden gems that you might not discover on your own.
We also tailor your Hampi tour according to your preferences, budget, and time constraints. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, spirituality, or nature, our team can create an itinerary that suits your specific interests. Please fill out the Contact Us form to learn more about us.