Shree Sankat Mochan
Lanka, near BHUThe best known shrine; revered as the primary reliever of difficulties, founded by Saint Tulsidas.
The Hanuman Temples of Kashi
Tradition connects the twelve sacred Hanuman shrines of Kashi with Goswami Tulsidas. Once associated with traditional akhadas and Ramleela circuits, they remain powerful pillars of prayer and fearlessness across the city.
अञ्जनानन्दनं वीरं जानकीशोकनाशनम् । कपिषक्षहन्तारं वन्दे लङ्काभयङ्करम् ॥
Meaning: I salute the brave son of Anjana, the vanquisher of Janaki's grief, the destroyer of enemy ranks, and the one who instills awe in Lanka.
Tulsidas and the Vision at Sankat Mochan
According to sacred temple traditions, Lord Hanuman appeared to Goswami Tulsidas while he was narrating kathas at Karnaghanta. Tulsidas followed him south to a wooded area near Lanka. There, Hanuman revealed his divine form and directed him toward the divine vision of Lord Rama at Chitrakoot.
The principal deity at the Sankat Mochan Temple is described as swayambhu (self-manifested): the right hand offers protection and fearlessness (Abhaya Mudra), while the left rests compassionately upon the heart, turned directly toward the idol of Lord Rama across the courtyard.
Sankat Mochan Temple: Darshan, Puja, & Etiquette
Timings & Schedule:
- Open Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily (stays open later up to midnight on Tuesdays and Saturdays).
- Aarti Timings: Morning Aarti starts around 4:00 AM – 5:00 AM; Evening Aarti takes place between 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Puja Offerings & Significance:
Devotees traditionally offer marigold flower garlands, sweet boondi or besan ladoos, and sindoor mixed with jasmine oil. Tuesdays and Saturdays draw massive crowds seeking astrological relief from the adverse malefic effects of Saturn (Shani) and Mars (Mangal). Annual highlights include the famous *Sangeet Samaroh* classical music festival.
Visitor Instructions & Security:
- Strict security screening (metal detectors and frisking) is enforced at entry points.
- Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple sanctum.
- Beware of notorious local rhesus macaque monkeys inhabiting the temple courtyard—keep food items completely secured.
Distances from Key Landmarks & Stations
- From Kashi Vishwanath Temple: ~4 to 5 km (approx. 15–20 minutes by auto-rickshaw/cab via Godowlia).
- From Varanasi Junction Railway Station (BSB): ~8 to 10 km.
- From Assi Ghat: ~1.5 to 2 km (a short 5–10 minute auto ride or a pleasant morning walk).
- From Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS): ~26 km.
The Traditional Twelve Shrines of Kashi
Use these traditional localities to locate each shrine across the city lanes.
Gufawale Balaroop Hanumanji
Tulsi Ghat, on the GangesTulsidas's principal place of meditation where Hanuman is worshipped in child form.
Mansapooran Hanuman
Prahlad GhatA sacred riverside sanctum believed to fulfill the earnest desires of devoted pilgrims.
Bal Hanuman
Hanuman Phatak, Northern KashiA historic neighborhood shrine embedded deep within the traditional northern lane network.
Topiwale Baithe Hanuman
Rajmandir (Chhote Sankatmochan)An intimately revered seated form holding high local devotional significance.
Hanuman Mandir
Panchganga GhatSituated along the majestic riverfront steps associated with celestial circuits and saintly assembly.
Hanuman Mandir
Near Vriddhakal Mahadev, DaranagarTucked within the ancient residential fabric near historical Mahadev shrines.
Hanuman Mandir
Near Mrityunjay Mahadev, DaranagarA quiet neighborhood sanctum offering space for focused prayer and contemplation.
Hanuman Mandir
Near Piplani Katra, KabirchauraLocated in the heart of Kashi’s classical music and historical cultural quarter.
Kodhhiya Hanuman
KarnaghantaDeeply linked in folklore with Tulsidas's early katha narrations and divine encounters.
Sankatdahan Hanuman
NichibaghA revered guardian shrine known for consuming obstacles and clearing mental blocks.
Mangalkaran Hanuman Mandir
NariyaBrings auspiciousness, protection, and inner courage to the growing southern extensions.