Overview of Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple
Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple in Hampi was built by the Dwaita Philosopher and the Rajguru of the Vijayanagar Empire, Sri Vyasaraja about 500 years ago. The temple is situated nearby to the bank of Tungabhadra River and only 2 KM away from Virupaksha Temple. The Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple is one of the most important shrines in Hampi. As the name suggests, the temple is solely dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The unique position of the idol makes it one of the most interesting places to visit in Hampi.
History and Stothram Miracles of Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple
There are two theories behind its creation. Many regards that this was the venue where Lord Rama and Hanuman united for the first time. The second story is Sri Vyasaraja used to pray in front of the image of Lord Hanuman. But, when he used to finish, the image always disappeared. After 12 times in a row, Sri Vyasaraja finally captured Lord Hanuman with 6 sided amulet and set up the temple.
This is the place where the famous Yantrodharaka Hanuman Stothram was written. It’s believed that chanting the sloka thrice a day for six months will fulfill one’s wish. One needs to mean every word of the sloka with utter determination while praying.
The architecture of Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple
The distinct depiction of Hanuman is only visible in the Hanuman Temple from the list of Hampi tour packages. Within the inner sanctum, the idol is circled with a hexagonal amulet. The crown of the shrine is formed with his tail, instead of the usual. He’s in a meditation position instead of standing with one arm raised. Lord Hanuman is surrounded with 12 monkeys, illustrating the 12 days of prayer. Every monkey is holding the tail of the next while facing the opposite of the Lord.
Timings of Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple
The doors of the Hanuman Temple are open every day. The tourists can visit from 06:00 AM till 09:00 PM. It is advised that the Hampi tourism should be undertaken during the winter months (from October to March) to enjoy the soothing weather of Hampi.