The Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Hanuman, a Hindu god, located in Hampi, Karnataka, India. It is one of the most important shrines dedicated to Hanuman in Hampi. The temple is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Tungabhadra River.
The temple was built in the 15th century by Sri Vyasaraja, a Madhva saint. The temple is named after the Yantra (sacred diagram) that is installed in the sanctum sanctorum. The Yantra is said to have been given to Sri Vyasaraja by Hanuman himself.
The idol of Hanuman in the temple is in a seated posture. He is shown holding a mace in his right hand and a lotus flower in his left hand. The idol is surrounded by twelve smaller idols of monkeys, which represent the twelve months of the year.
The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. Devotees from all over India come to the temple to offer prayers to Hanuman. The temple is also a popular tourist destination.
Here are some of the things you can see and do at the Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple:
- Admire the architecture of the temple. The temple is built in the Vijayanagara style of architecture. It is characterized by its intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Offer prayers to Hanuman. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. Devotees from all over India come to the temple to offer prayers to Hanuman.
- Take a walk around the temple complex. The temple complex is located on a hilltop. There are several other temples and shrines located in the complex.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Hampi. The temple complex offers panoramic views of Hampi. You can see the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire from the temple complex.
Here are some tips for visiting the Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple:
- The best time to visit the temple is early in the morning or late in the evening. The temple can get crowded during the day.
- Dress modestly. You should cover your shoulders and knees when visiting the temple.
- Remove your footwear before entering the temple. This is a common practice in all Hindu temples.
- Be respectful of the other devotees. The temple is a place of worship. You should be quiet and respectful of the other devotees.
How to get to the Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple:
The Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple is located in Hampi, Karnataka, India. The temple is about 350 kilometers from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka.
- By car: The temple is about a 5-hour drive from Bangalore. You can take the NH-4 highway to Hampi.
- By bus: There are several buses that ply between Bangalore and Hampi. The journey takes about 6-7 hours.
- By train: The nearest railway station to Hampi is Hospet. Hospet is about 13 kilometers from Hampi. You can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Hospet to Hampi.