Hanuman Dhara Temple, Chitrakoot

• Temples
• Bhakti Chitrakoot devotional online Puja Temple

Hanuman Dhara Temple is situated in Chitrakoot, a holy town that spans across Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. The temple is located on a steep hill, around 5 km from Ramghat, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Religious and Mythological Significance

The Hanuman Dhara Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the devoted disciple of Lord Rama. According to Hindu mythology, after Lord Hanuman set Lanka ablaze with his fiery tail during the search for Sita, he was engulfed in flames and sought relief. To soothe his burning body, Lord Rama shot an arrow into the rock, creating a stream of cool water that continuously flows over Hanuman’s idol. This stream is known as Hanuman Dhara.

The temple symbolizes devotion, strength, and divine grace, making it a revered site for Lord Hanuman’s devotees.

Temple Architecture and Features

• The Hanuman Dhara Temple is located at the top of a steep hill, and devotees have to climb approximately 360-400 steps to reach it.
• The climb offers breathtaking views of the forests, valleys, and the serene landscape of Chitrakoot.
• The main attraction of the temple is the idol of Lord Hanuman, with water cascading over it from a natural spring, symbolizing the divine stream that cooled his burning tail.
• The temple complex also has smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, making it a part of the Ramayana pilgrimage circuit.

Rituals and Religious Practices

• Daily Aarti and Puja:
  • Regular aarti and puja are performed at the temple.
  • Devotees offer vermilion (sindoor), oil, and flowers to Lord Hanuman.
• Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered especially auspicious, attracting a larger number of devotees.
• Many visitors undertake a parikrama (circumambulation) of the temple and seek Lord Hanuman’s blessings for strength and protection.

Spiritual and Tourist Importance

• The Hanuman Dhara Temple is not only a religious site but also a popular tourist attraction due to its scenic location.
• The hilltop offers a stunning view of Chitrakoot and the surrounding forest, making it a peaceful and picturesque destination.
• The climb to the temple is considered spiritually rewarding, with devotees believing it grants them inner strength and mental peace.
• The temple is part of the Chitrakoot pilgrimage circuit, which includes other important sites like Ramghat, Kamadgiri, Gupt Godavari, and Bharat Milap Temple.

How to Reach Hanuman Dhara Temple

• By Road: Chitrakoot is well-connected by road with major cities like Prayagraj, Satna, and Varanasi. Taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws are available from Chitrakoot town to the temple base.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Chitrakoot Dham Karwi, approximately 11 km away. From the station, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw.
• By Air: The nearest airport is in Prayagraj (Allahabad), around 130 km away. From there, you can hire a cab to reach Chitrakoot.

Best Time to Visit

• The ideal time to visit the Hanuman Dhara Temple is between October and March, as the weather is pleasant.
• Avoid the scorching summer months, as the climb to the temple can be exhausting.
• The temple attracts a large number of devotees during Hanuman Jayanti and Ram Navami festivals.

Nearby Attractions

1. Ramghat: A sacred ghat on the banks of the Mandakini River, where Lord Rama and Sita are believed to have bathed.
2. Bharat Milap Temple: Commemorates the emotional reunion of Rama and Bharat, symbolizing devotion and love.
3. Kamadgiri Hill: A holy hill associated with Lord Rama’s stay during his exile. Pilgrims perform a parikrama of the hill.
4. Gupt Godavari: Mysterious caves believed to have been Lord Rama and Lakshmana’s secret retreat during their exile.
5. Sati Anusuya Ashram: Associated with Sati Anusuya, the wife of sage Atri, known for her devotion and powers.

Travel Tips

• Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, as the climb to the temple involves steep steps.
• Hydration: Carry water bottles, especially if visiting during warmer months.
• Spiritual Experience: Participate in the aarti and bhajans to enjoy the temple’s divine atmosphere.
• Photography: The temple offers stunning views of Chitrakoot’s landscape, making it a great spot for photography.

The Hanuman Dhara Temple in Chitrakoot is a sacred and picturesque pilgrimage site, representing Lord Hanuman’s unwavering devotion and strength. The continuous stream of water over Hanuman’s idol symbolizes divine grace and relief. The temple offers not only a spiritual experience but also breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and valleys, making it a must-visit destination for devotees and tourists alike.