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Sankat Mochan Temple

Temples

Sankat Mochan Temple is one of the most vibrant and beloved temples in Varanasi, dedicated to the 'Monkey God', Hanuman. It is believed to have been founded by the poet-saint Tulsidas on the very spot where he had a vision of the Lord. The temple is a hub of intense devotion, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, when thousands gather to offer 'Besan Laddoo' prasad and seek protection from the 'Sankat' (troubles). The atmosphere is regularly filled with the sound of Sundarkand chanting and live classical music performances during the annual Sankat Mochan Music Festival, making it a cultural and spiritual cornerstone of the city.

Deep Dive: Sankat Mochan Temple

The Sankat Mochan Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It was established by the great saint-poet Goswami Tulasi Das in the early 16th century. The name 'Sankat Mochan' translates to 'the reliever from troubles'.

The temple is unique because the idol of Hanuman faces his Lord, Rama, whom he worshipped with unparalleled devotion. It is also famous for its troupe of monkeys who are considered part of the temple's divine ecosystem. The annual 'Sankat Mochan Music Festival' held here is a premier event in the cultural calendar of Kashi.

Traveler's Information & Timings

•Temple Timings: Opens at 4:30 AM and closes at 10:30 PM. On Tuesday and Saturday, the temple stays open until midnight.
•Afternoon Closing: Please note that Darshan is closed between 12:00 Noon and 3:00 PM daily.
•Facilities: The temple provides its own locker facility for mobile phones and cameras, as these are not allowed inside.
•Prashad: It is highly recommended to buy 'Besan Ke Laddu' (Prashad) from the shops located inside the temple premises for authenticity.

Expert Insights for Your Visit

Varanasi is best explored with an open heart and a slow pace. The city reveals its secrets to those who stay long enough to observe the subtle shifts in the river's light and the rhythm of the daily rituals.

We recommend pairing your visit to Sankat Mochan Temple with a quiet walk through the nearby ancient ghats or a sampling of the city's legendary culinary heritage.

Curated by Hospes India

As Varanasi's leading destination management experts, we ensure that your visit to Sankat Mochan Temple is authentic and seamless.

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At Hospes India, we believe that travel should be transformative. From arranging priority darshan at the temples to booking luxury river cruises on the Ganges, we handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience. Let us help you discover the timeless magic of Varanasi, where every corner holds a piece of eternity.

Experience Sankat Mochan Temple in Motion

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a specific day to visit Sankat Mochan Temple?

While open daily, Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered most auspicious for Lord Hanuman. Expect large spiritual crowds on these days.

What is the famous prasad of Sankat Mochan Temple?

The temple is world-famous for its 'Besan Ke Laddu' prasad. It is highly recommended to buy the prasad from the official counters located inside the temple premises to ensure authenticity and purity.

Is music part of the temple tradition?

Yes, the temple hosts the prestigious Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh every year, featuring India's top classical musicians for six consecutive nights.

What are the Darshan timings for Sankat Mochan Temple?

The temple opens at 4:30 AM and closes at 10:30 PM. However, Darshan is closed in the afternoon between 12:00 Noon and 3:00 PM. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the temple remains open until midnight to accommodate the large number of seekers.

Are mobile phones allowed inside Sankat Mochan Temple?

No, mobile phones, cameras, and electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. The temple provides a free locker facility at the entrance where you can safely deposit your belongings before entering.