Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi

Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi | Timings & History

The stunning Yantradharaka Hanuman Temple, also called the Monkey Temple, is located inside a cave on top of the Anjaneya Hill, two kilometers from the Virupaksha Temple. The 500-year-old shrine is devoted to Lord Hanuman. The idol of Lord Hanuman was placed in the temple by Sri Vyasaraja, a Dwaita philosopher and the Rajaguru of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. Hindus regard the Monkey Temple, one of the most well-known sights on Anjeyanadri Hill, to be a sacred place.

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The temple is situated atop a hill, and accessing it requires climbing 570 steps. The stunning scenery and the fresh air more than make up for the difficult ascent. It’s quite common to see elderly folks ascending with vigor and dedication. Five minutes from the Yantrodharaka Temple is a modest temple devoted to Lord Srinivasa, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. Sri Vyasaraja has carved out his idol. Some snakestones, which are also venerated, are located beneath a fig tree in front of the Hanuman Temple. For all those who enjoy the outdoors and religion, it is a must-visit place in Hampi.

Legend of Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi

According to the temple’s mythology, Sri Vyasaraja would use charcoal to sketch an image of Lord Hanuman on the rocks each day before praying. The apparition on the rock vanished as he finished the rites. For twelve consecutive days, this event continued until Vyasaraja asked the lord to appear before him. The Guru was blessed by Lord Hanuman when he appeared before him on the twelfth day.

Lord Hanuman is said to have requested that Sri Vyasaraja catch him in the six-angled talisman and then set him there. Additionally, it is said that here is the very location where Lord Hanuman and Lord Rama first met.

Architecture Of Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi

The steps lead up to the Hanuman Temple, which is perched atop the hill on the Tungabhadra River’s side. If one looks attentively, one can see carvings of twelve monkeys facing backwards and gripping each other’s tails on the idol of Lord Hanuman, who is housed inside this temple in his contemplative condition. These twelve monkeys represent the twelve days of devotion that Sri Vyasaraja devoted to Lord Hanuman prior to receiving the Lord’s blessing. Lord Hanuman’s crown is his tail, and the entire rock surrounding his statue is engraved with seed syllables. Of the 732 installations of Hanuman, the Yantrodharaka Hanuman is the first to feature Sri Vyasaraja. A temple also has been dedicated to Lord Hanuman which depicts the union of Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman at this place. Lord Hanuman’s idol here is the only one which is present in a meditative state.

Best Time To Visit Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi

The months of November through February are the best times to visit the Hanuman Temple because of the lovely weather.

Tips For Visiting Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi

1. There are numerous monkeys in and around the shrine. Therefore, guests need to be mindful of their possessions. The temple door is always closed to keep these monkeys out of the building.
2. The hilltop is a difficult climb. Additionally, guests are recommended to carry their own water bottles and food from the vendors located below the hill because there are no businesses at the summit.
3. There are no extra fees for taking pictures on temple property.
4. Only if you are physically healthy should you attempt the ascent to the temple’s summit.

How To Reach Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Hampi

A convenient road system connects Hampi to a number of towns and cities. Additionally, a number of buses connect Hampi to all the surrounding locations. To get there, visitors can also take cabs or private vehicles from Bangalore and Mysore.

To go to the Monkey Temple, one must walk all the way to the summit of Anjeyanadri Hill, where it is located. Visitors can cross the river to get to Hampi; the primary crossing locations are the Vittala Temple, Kondandarama Temple, and Virupapur Gadde.