Anjanadri Hill Temple

Introduction to the Anjanadri Hill Temple

The Anjanadri Hill Temple lies in Hanumanahalli, Koppal district, across River Tungabhadra near Hampi. It is amidst the natural landscapes and the scenic views of gushing water from the Tungabhadra River. Monkey Temple is another name for it.

Legend of the Anjanadri Hill Temple

The Anjanadri Hill is recognized as the birthplace of Sri Anjaneya Swamy (Hanuman). The name 'Anjanadri' comes from Anjana,' the mother of Hanuman, signifying her connection to this place. According to Hindu mythology, Anjana performed intense prayers on this hill, seeking a child from Shiva. Pleased with her devotion, he granted her wish and incarnated as her son, Hanuman. Hence, Anjanadri is considered holy and revered by devotees of Hanuman.

The Architecture of the Anjanadri Hill Temple

The Anjanadri Hill Temple is at the summit of the Anjanadri Hills and is believed to have been built during the Vijayanagara dynasty. Devotees ascend over 570 stone steps to reach the temple. It features a traditional South Indian architectural style. This sacred pilgrimage spot attracts huge devotees during festivals and public holidays. The temple is a white-washed structure with a pyramidal roof. There is a small red dome at the top. A red flag flutters at the top of the dome, visible even from a distance.

A small aquarium houses a specimen of the floating rock at the temple entrance, which is believed to have been used in constructing the Ram Sethu.

The sanctum of the Anjanadri Hill Temple has an idol of Hanuman, the presiding deity, carved on a rock. There is an adjacent room near the sanctum where devotees can meditate. The temple door is always kept open. The marble idols of Rama and Sita are enshrined in a small shrine inside the temple.

There are no shops at the top of the hill. A few small stalls sell drinks and snacks at the bottom of the Anjanadri hill. A spacious parking area is available at the hill base.

Paddy fields, coconut plantations, the rocky mountain on one side, and the Tungabhadra on the other are part of the spectacular view from the hilltop. These are the other perks of climbing the hill apart from visiting the Anjanadri Hill Temple. According to Ramayana, Anjanadri Hill is called Kishkindha, the monkey kingdom.

Anjanadri Hill is a popular spot for trekking. Every year, adventure clubs organize the trekking camp to provide a thrilling experience for the tourists of Hampi. Anjanadri Hill Temple is controlled by the Taluk Administration and the State Religious Endowment Department.

Festivals in the Anjanadri Hill Temple

Anjanadri Hill Temple celebrates Rama Navami and Hanuman Jayanti with great zeal. Devotees from across the country flock to the temple to worship Hanuman on this grand occasion.