Explore Pandupol Hanuman Temaple, Sariska, Rajasthan

Pandupol, situated within the breathtaking Sariska Tiger Reserve, stands out as a captivating destination that beckons both tourists and pilgrims. Its allure is deeply intertwined with a tapestry of mythological narratives.

According to the legend, Pandupol earned its name when the Pandavas sought refuge in this very area during their exile. It was here that Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, had a remarkable encounter with Hanuman, the mighty monkey deity. Remarkably, even today, an opening in a rock is believed to bear the indelible mark of Bhima's incredible strength. In a gesture of reverence, the Pandavas enshrined a small idol of Hanuman at this spot, eventually giving rise to a sacred temple. Remarkably, this Hanuman temple boasts an astonishing age of approximately 5000 years.

Nestled amidst the lush and verdant embrace of dense forest groves, Pandupol serves as a veritable sanctuary for admirers of the natural world. To gain access, visitors need only pay a nominal entry fee, with the privilege of driving their private vehicles granted exclusively on Tuesdays and Saturdays - days of special significance dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Exploring this enchanting locale can be seamlessly combined with a visit to the renowned Sariska Tiger Reserve, promising a rich and diverse experience for all who venture here.

The Hanuman Temple boasts a remarkable antiquity, with its origins tracing back an astonishing 5000 years. Its history is steeped in a captivating legend involving Bheema, one of the renowned Pandava siblings, who ingeniously employed his formidable mace to forge the 'pol' or gate, thwarting obstacles in their path. Subsequently, a fateful encounter with Lord Hanuman led to the construction of this temple, a testament to divine providence.

This historical marvel finds its sanctuary deep within the heart of the Sariska Tiger Sanctuary. For those fortunate enough to possess their own vehicles, the forest department extends a generous gesture, permitting entry into the park on Tuesdays and Saturdays for a nominal fee of INR 250. The journey to reach this sacred site is an exhilarating hour-long drive from Sariska, meandering through an enchanting landscape adorned with indigenous date palm trees. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a colossal idol of Lord Hanuman, and the rich tapestry of the temple's history is thoughtfully narrated on a signboard situated behind the temple's grandeur.

The Hanuman Temple's legacy stretches across millennia, while Pandupol, a natural cleft in the rocky terrain, stands as a testament to the path traversed by the Pandavas during their exile. The picturesque surroundings offer enchanting reflections of the swaying palm trees mirrored in the adjacent stream, providing a serene backdrop for spiritual contemplation. In a charming display of devotion, monkeys are revered as incarnations of the revered monkey god Hanuman, and devotees offer them sacred prasad as a token of reverence. Situated approximately 15-20 kilometers from Sariska, deep within the sanctuary's embrace, this sacred enclave beckons seekers of history and spirituality alike.