Pracheen Hanuman Mandir in Delhi or Hanuman Temple is one of India’s most beloved and highly venerated Hindu shrines. Located in the city of Delhi, this ancient temple has a history that dates back centuries.
Its origins as a place of worship are said to date back to the 17th century CE. Today, millions of devotees from all over India come to pray at the temple every year.
Let’s take a quick look at what makes this shrine so special.
The History and Significance of Pracheen Hanuman Mandir
Pracheen Hanuman Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is regarded as one of the most important gods in Hinduism.
The temple was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, an 18th-century ruler who was responsible for much of modern-day Delhi’s development.
According to legend, Maharaja Jai Singh II found a statue of Lord Hanuman while he was excavating in the area and decided to build a temple around it. Since then, it has become one of India’s most revered shrines, and millions visit annually to pay their respects.
It is also believed that some part of the hymn of “Hanuman Chalisa” was written at this place. This place has great significance historically.
Pracheen Hanuman Temple Architecture
The grandeur and architecture of Pracheen Hanuman Mandir cannot be understated. The entire complex spans more than 8 acres and consists of several buildings surrounded by lush gardens and courtyards. It is a sight to behold.
At its center stands a beautiful marble statue of Lord Hanuman that stands tall at over 15 feet high. It is believed that this statue was carved from a single piece of marble, adding even more significance to its magnificence.
Inside the main hall, hundreds upon hundreds of little shrines are dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses. It can take hours just to view them all. In addition to its impressive architecture, the Pracheen Mandir of Lord Hanuman is also known for its many festivals that are held throughout each year.
Timings to Visit the Temple
The temple is famous among the devotees of Hanuman Ji. The followers gather mostly on Tuesdays and Saturdays here and the temple remains open 24 hours on both days.
On Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, the Mandir premises are open from 05:00 AM to 11:00 PM for the Darshan. However, the Puja timings at the Mandir are 05:00 Am to 11:00 AM and 03:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Rituals & Festivals
On Tuesdays, devotees gather at the temple with offerings such as flowers, incense sticks, sweets, or coconuts. The main reason for offerings is to seek blessings from Lord Hanuman himself.
There is also an annual Ramlila festival, where locals dress up as characters from Hindu mythology, such as Rama and Sita. The performances on stage tell stories about their lives and struggle against evil forces like Ravana. These performances attract thousands every year from all over India.
How to Get There?
You can easily reach this Pracheen Hanuman Mandir in Delhi via car, bus, or by taking the metro to the nearest station. The nearest metro station to Pracheen Hanuman Mandir in Delhi is Connaught Place. All the rails cross the Connaught Place Station, and you can easily visit the temple whenever you want.
The Bottom Line
Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi or Hanuman Temple has been strong since 1724 CE when Maharaja Jai Singh II built it. It was found during excavation work for King’s Fort wall construction works near Purana Quila or Old Fort.
Today it stands tall with thousands visiting daily, seeking blessings from Lord Hanuman ji himself. Even though there are new temples like ISCKON and Akshardham Mandir built in Delhi, this temple is one of India’s oldest surviving temples still functioning today.
Whether you’re looking for spiritual solace or simply want to explore the rich culture behind this historical site, Pracheen Hanuman Mandir is all you need to visit.
It truly provides something special unlike anything else in Delhi today. With remarkable architecture combined with vibrant festival celebrations throughout the year, this ancient shrine truly leaves all who visit with an unforgettable experience.