Perched on top of a serene hill in Bhimtal, the Hanuman Garhi temple stands as a beacon of spirituality and devotion. The sacred site is dedicated to Shree Hanuman and offers a truly spiritual solace to the devotees. In addition, it also offers you panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
If you have planned a visit to the Hanuman Garhi Temple in Bhimtal, this blog should help you plan your itinerary and assist you in getting a good understanding of what to expect during your stay at the temple.
Hanuman Garhi Temple – An overview
The temple is located around 3 km from the Tallital bus stand in Nainital. It is located around an elevation of 1,951 meters (6,401 feet) above sea level. The temple is renowned for its massive 4-meter-high statue of Lord Hanuman, depicting the deity tearing open his chest to reveal Lord Rama and Sita, symbolizing unwavering devotion.
Established by Neem Karoli Baba, the temple is also known for offering breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas.
Mythological & Historical Significance
The temple bears a robust mythological and historical significance. It is associated with the famous saint Neem Karoli Baba during the 1950s. The preceding deity Hanuman, here is seen as the symbol of strength, loyalty, and dedication.
The temple has a huge statue of Hanuman and is believed to be the protecting or guarding deity of the locals. The statue also has a huge umbrella installed on its head. The insides of the temple has an idol of Lord Hanuman opening his chest and showing images of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita in his heart. There are shrines for Bhagwan Shiva and Bhagwan Rama as well.
Architectural Highlights
The architecture of the temple offers a blend of spirituality and traditional design. It is in an octagonal shape, symbolising the eight Siddhis that Hanuman possessed.
The temple is primarily constructed in white marble. It has a beautifully arched entrance leading to a flight of stairs that ascend to the main hall. Inside, the sanctum houses the imposing statue of Lord Hanuman, adorned with a decorative umbrella, exuding an aura of strength and serenity.
Location & Accessibility
Hanuman Garhi Temple is located near Bhimtal and is just around 3 Km from Nainital. The temple is easily accessible by road from nearby cities. You can get here in around 30 minutes from our resort.
Distance from nearby cities
- Nainital – The temple is around km from Nainital. You can reach here via NH 109.
Direction map from Nainital to temple.
- Naukuchiatal: Located 26 km from the temple. You can reach here via NH109 and Bhowali – Bhimtal road. You can reach here in around one hour.
How to reach the Hanuman Garhi temple?
Hanuman Garhi is well linked through rail, road and air to different parts of the country.
- By Road: The temple is approximately 3.5 km from the Tallital bus stand in Nainital. Regular taxis and buses are available from Nainital and nearby towns.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, situated about 30 km from the temple. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
- By Air: Pantnagar Airport, located around 68 km away, is the closest airport. Taxis and buses from the airport provide connectivity to Nainital and Bhimtal.
Best Time to Visit
The Hanuman Garhi temple can be visited all through the year. However, each of the seasons would offer you different experiences. Based on what you like, you can visit it during the specific seasons.
- Summer (March to June): Pleasant weather makes it ideal for sightseeing and spiritual retreats.
- Monsoon (July to September): The region becomes lush and green, though occasional rains may affect travel plans.
- Autumn (October to November): Clear skies and crisp air provide excellent conditions for panoramic views.
- Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures prevail, and the area may experience snowfall, adding to the temple’s charm.
Visiting it during Ram Navami and Hanuman Janmotsav may be an excellent option.
Things to Do & Experiences
Hanuman Garhi, being one of the religious and spiritual centres, offers several spiritual experiences that you can indulge in.
- Attend Aarti: Participate in the morning or evening aarti (prayer ceremony) to immerse yourself in spiritual vibrations.
- Meditation: The tranquil environment is perfect for meditation and introspection.
- Photography: Capture the stunning vistas of the Himalayas and the temple’s architectural beauty.
- Explore Nearby Shrines: Visit adjacent temples like the Shitala Devi Temple and the Ashram of Lila Sah Bapu, enhancing your spiritual journey
Tips for Your Visit
Now that you are visiting a religious space, it is extremely essential to check out the Dos and Don’ts. Here are a few tips we recommend –
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the temple’s elevation and stairs.
- Dress Code: Modest attire is advised to respect the sanctity of the temple.
- Photography: While photography is allowed, it’s courteous to seek permission before capturing images of devotees or ceremonies.
- Timing: Visiting during early morning or late afternoon allows you to witness the serene sunrise or sunset views.
Where to Stay
Bhimtal and Nainital, around the temple,e offer you a wide range of options for the best accommodations. You can choose the stay that meets your budget.
Our Chirping Hills Resort is known for offering an excellent array of options that include Farm Stays, Nature Stays, and plenty of other attractions. Staying in Bhimtal provides the advantage of proximity to the temple and other attractions, while Nainital offers a bustling town atmosphere with additional sightseeing opportunities.
Nearby Attractions
There are several attractions in and around Hanuman Garhi in Bhimtal.
- Bhimtal Lake: A serene lake ideal for boating and nature walks. It is home to several adventure activities and family-friendly destinations.
- Naukuchiatal: Known for its nine-cornered lake and adventure sports.
- Sattal: A cluster of seven interconnected lakes surrounded by dense forests.
- Nainital: A popular hill station offering shopping, dining, and various tourist spots. Visit it for the world-famous Naina Devi temple.
Conclusion
Hanuman Garhi Temple in Bhimtal is more than just a place of worship; it’s a sanctuary where spirituality and nature converge. Whether you’re seeking divine blessings, inner peace, or simply a break from the hustle of daily life, this temple offers a fulfilling experience. Plan your visit to Hanuman Garhi and let the serene ambiance rejuvenate your soul.
And yes, when you visit Hanuman Garhi, make sure to stay at Chirping Hills Resort. We ensure that you are in for a treat, in every sense of the word!