Anjanadri Hill Temple / Kishkindha, Hampi - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Anjanadri Hill Temple

At a distance of 4 Km from Anegundi, and 23 Km from Hampi, the Anjanadri Hill or Anjanadri Betta is a sacred hill situated in Hanumanahalli village within the Koppal District of Karnataka. It ranks among the most renowned pilgrimage sites in Karnataka and is considered one of the essential places to visit near Hampi. This location possesses significant historical and religious importance, attracting visitors from various regions, as this captivating hill is thought to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, the esteemed monkey god in Indian mythology. Anjanadri Hill offers a harmonious blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a destination worth exploring for travelers to Hampi.

History & Mythology of Anjanadri Hill Temple

Located near Anegundi, across the Tungabhadra River from Hampi, Anjanadri Hill is rich in Hindu mythology. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Hanuman, the revered monkey deity, was born to Anjana Devi on Anjanadri Hill. Therefore, Hanuman is also referred to as Anjaneya, and his birthplace is known as Anjaneyadri. Besides, Anjanadri Hill is also identified as the location of Kishkindha, the monkey kingdom mentioned in the Ramayana, further enhancing its mythological significance.

Architecture of Anjanadri Hill Temple

Anjanadri Hill features a Hanuman temple at its peak. This site is not only a major attraction but also a revered pilgrimage destination for Hindus. The modest temple is topped with a small dome-like tower, where a red flag flutters prominently, visible from a distance, symbolizing devotion and faith. Inside, there is a rock-carved idol of Lord Hanuman, depicted in a profound state of meditation. This idol radiates a sense of divine energy, attracting worshippers from various places who come to seek the blessings of this powerful deity. Furthermore, within the temple grounds, there exists a small shrine dedicated to Lord Rama and his consort Sita. Devotees can observe a floating stone within a large glass enclosure. This stone is of particular significance, as it is believed to be one of the stones utilized by Lord Rama to construct the legendary bridge between Sri Lanka and India, known as the Ram Setu or Rama's Bridge.

Moreover, Anjanadri Hill is endowed with breathtaking natural beauty, making it a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. Devotees must ascend approximately 575 steps to reach this sacred site, which typically takes around 45 minutes. The trek provides stunning views of the Tungabhadra River, whose winding path traverses the landscape, enhancing the allure of the surroundings. From the summit, trekkers can admire the renowned Virupaksha Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the vast ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire that extend across the horizon.

Anjanadri Hill presents spectacular views of both sunrise and sunset, rendering it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. Many visitors strive to arrive at the hilltop early in the morning to experience the awe-inspiring sight of the sun rising and casting its golden rays over the Hampi landscape. Likewise, in the evenings, Anjanadri Hill offers a magnificent viewpoint to witness the sun setting behind the distant hills, painting the sky in vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple.

Anjanadri Hill is home to a significant number of monkeys. It is advisable to refrain from carrying food items openly or any objects that may draw their interest. The path leading to the summit is stepped, making it a considerable ascent. There are no shops available at the top; therefore, it is essential to bring water, snacks, and other necessities from the base.

Festivals of Anjanadri Hill Temple

Anjanadri Hill Temple hosts numerous festivals, with Hanuman Jayanti being the most significant. Typically occurs in the month of Chaitra (March-April), this festival, commemorating the birth of Hanuman, is drawing large crowds for special pujas, abhishekams, and processions. Other festivals celebrated here with great fervor include Maha Shivaratri, Rama Navami, and Diwali.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Anjanadri Hill Temple

The recommended dress code for the Anjanadri Hill Temple in Karnataka emphasizes modest attire in accordance with Hindu customs. Men are encouraged to wear shirt & trouser, dhoti or pyjamas. Women are advised to wear sarees, salwar kameez, or other traditional clothing that adequately covers their shoulders and legs. It is important to note that from the base of the hill, there is a climb of 575 steps to reach the summit. The trek is moderately challenging, so it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry drinking water.

There is no formal prohibition against non-Hindus entering the Anjanadri Hill Temple. However, there might be some restrictions on non-Hindus participating in certain rituals or entering the inner sanctum of the temple.

Timings of Anjanadri Hill Temple

Monday: 6 AM - 6 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 6 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 6 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 6 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 6 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 6 PM
Sunday: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee of Anjanadri Hill Temple

Entry is Free

Best time to visit Anjanadri Hill Temple

The best season to visit Anjanadri Hill Temple in Hanumanahalli is from October to March, as this timeframe offers the most pleasant weather for ascending the hill, as well as exploring the surroundings. The summer months can be excessively hot and arid in this area, rendering it less attractive for outdoor pursuits. The monsoon season, which spans from July to September, can result in significant rainfall, making the ascent slippery and difficult.

How to reach Anjanadri Hill Temple

About 166 Km from Hampi, Hubli Airport is the closest airport that has direct flights from Bangalore and Mumbai. The nearest railway station is Hospet, located 13 Km from Hampi, which is well-served by trains from Bangalore, Hyderabad, Hubli, Chennai, Vijayawada, Tirupati, Panjim, Kolkata, Mysore, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Kolhapur, and Shiridi. Hampi is accessible by road through KSRTC bus services originating from Bangalore, Hubli, Goa, and Karwar. To reach Anjanadri Hill, one can cross the Tungabhadra River from the Hampi side using a coracle boat, or opt for a bus or auto-rickshaw from either Hampi or Koppal. However, it is important to note that from the base of the hill, there is a climb of 575 steps to reach the summit. The trek is moderately challenging, so it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry drinking water.