Pandupol Hanuman Temple, Alwar - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 56 km from Alwar, the Pandupol Hanuman Temple is a significant religious site located within the lush expanse of the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar, Rajasthan. It is one of the most-visited places of pilgrimage in Rajasthan, and among the must-incude places in Alwar tours.

Pandupol Temple is dedicated to monkey god Hanuman. According to legend, during the era of the Mahabharata, the Pandavas, accompanied by their wife Draupadi, visited this region, formerly known as Viratnagar, during their years of exile. Upon learning of their presence, the Kaurava army commenced a search for them. During this period, Bhima, the son of Pandu, created a pathway by striking a large mountain with his mace. The location where Bhima struck the mace is referred to as Pol, which is how this site became known as Pandupol.

The temple's primary attraction is the reclining statue of Hanuman. It is believed that this statue is positioned at the very spot where Hanuman broke Bhima's pride. The tale recounts that when Bhima cleared the hill to forge a path, his wife and brothers praised him, leading to a sense of arrogance within him. To counteract this arrogance, Hanuman devised a plan and appeared as an old monkey, lying in the path of the advancing Pandavas. When Bhima requested the monkey to remove its tail, the monkey insisted that Bhima should do so himself. In a fit of anger, Bhima attempted to lift the tail but found it immovable, regardless of his strength. This experience prompted him to regret his arrogance and seek forgiveness from Hanuman. Upon Bhima's sincere plea for forgiveness, Hanuman revealed his true form, signifying the moment he humbled Bhima's pride. Subsequently, the Pandavas erected the statue of Hanuman in a reclining position at that location.

Not far from the temple lies a hill that Bhima had struck with his mace to create the pathway, known as Bhima Pahari. A continuous stream of water flows from this hill, attracting visitors from afar. Additionally, there is a sacred water tank near the Pandupol Hanuman Temple, where it is believed that bathing in its holy waters purifies one's sins and offers spiritual renewal. Situated within the Sariska National Park, the area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, langurs, peacocks, and tigers.

The Pandupol Temple is situated in the core area of Sariska, permitting devotees to access the temple via private vehicles on Tuesdays and Saturdays only. Annually, a Lakkhi Fair takes place at the Pandupol Hanuman Temple on the Ashtami of Bhado Shukla Paksha (September), attracting approximately 50,000 devotees from neighboring states.

Timings: 5 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free