The ancient Sankat Mochan temple, situated at Durga Kund Road on the banks of the Assi river in the southern part of Varanasi, is dedicated to Lord Hanuman (Monkey God), an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple was established by great poet Tulsidas aka Goswami Tulsidas, the author of the Hindu epic 'Ramacharitamanasa'  in the 16th century. This narrative of the life of Lord Rama has influenced the Bhakti movement and modern spirituality in India.

Sankat Mochan means 'liberator from troubles' and those who come and pray to the lord regularly is believed to recover from all worries, and find peace and solace. Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered as the most auspicious day for worshipping Lord Hanuman, and large number of devotees gather here to offer prayers, sindoor and laddoos to the lord. Devotees recite hymns of 'Hanuman Chalisa', 'Kishkindha' and 'Sundar Kand' as a due part of their prayers. The best time to visit this temple is in the early evening. Hanuman Jayanthi (Birthday of Lord Hanuman) is the main festival celebrated here for 5 days on the day of Kartik Krishna Chathurdhashi. The temple is open from 5am, and the main rituals performed are 'Pratah Aarti' at 5.am; 'Sandhya Aarti' at 8.30 pm and 'Rathri Aarti' at 10.pm. 

Another popular event held at the temple is the 'Sankat Mochan Sangeeth Samaroh', blending Indian classical music with contemporary music, in April annually.

Contact Address:

B 2/15, Tulsi Ghat,
Bhadaini, Varanasi 221005
Phone : 020 313 76707
E-mail : vnmganga@gmail.com