Sri Anjaneya Swamy Temple, Anjanadri Hill
Folktale & Sacred Story
According to the legend recounted at the site, Anjana Devi performed intense tapas atop this hill seeking a son as powerful and devoted as Lord Shiva. Pleased by her penance, Vayu, the wind god, is said to have carried a portion of the sacred payasam offered in the Putrakameshti yagna of King Dasharatha to Anjana, and she consequently gave birth to Hanuman on this hill — hence the name Anjanadri, 'Anjana's Hill.' The surrounding Anegundi-Hampi region is popularly identified with Kishkindha, the forest kingdom of Sugriva and the vanaras described in the Ramayana, reinforcing the hill's association with Hanuman's early life.
Most Revered Practice
Devotees climb the roughly 570-575 stone steps to the hilltop shrine, a practice considered an act of devotion in itself. Hanuman Jayanti and Rama Navami are observed with particular fervour, drawing large numbers of pilgrims who combine the climb with darshan of the rock-carved Hanuman image at the summit.
Prasadam & Offerings
Prasadam details not independently verified — confirm locally.
Temple Speciality
The temple's chief distinction is its identification as Hanuman's birthplace, set within the wider Kishkindha landscape of boulder-strewn hills across the river from the Hampi World Heritage monuments. The climb up the stepped hillside offers panoramic views over the Tungabhadra valley and the Vijayanagara ruins.
Why Pilgrims Visit
Pilgrims come both for the spiritual significance of Hanuman's birthplace and for the dramatic natural setting — a boulder hill rising above the Tungabhadra with sweeping views of the Hampi ruins. It pairs naturally with a visit to the Virupaksha temple and other Hampi monuments across the river.
History & Legend
Perched atop a granite hillock on the north bank of the Tungabhadra, across from the Hampi ruins, this shrine is believed to have been established during the Vijayanagara period, with local tradition crediting Sri Vyasaraja, the Dwaita philosopher and rajaguru of the Vijayanagara court, with its consecration. The hill lies within the Anegundi region, historically identified by many local traditions with Kishkindha, the monkey kingdom of the Ramayana. The present rock-cut image of Hanuman and the modern approach stairway have been maintained and renovated over successive generations of local worship.
Divine Significance
Anjanadri Hill is venerated by devotees as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, son of Anjana, making it one of the most important Hanuman pilgrimage sites in South India alongside its role as part of the greater Hampi-Kishkindha sacred landscape.
Darshan Timings
Generally open during daylight hours, roughly 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (please confirm exact timings with the temple before visiting, as they vary by season and festival).
How To Reach
Nearest railway station is Hospet Junction, about 13 km away; nearest airports are Jindal Vijaynagar (Toranagallu) Airport (roughly 45-50 km) and Hubballi Airport (around 165-170 km).
Where To Stay
Guesthouses and homestays are available in Anegundi and Hampi; Hospet town, a short drive away, offers a wider range of hotels.
Local Food Nearby
Simple vegetarian meals and snacks are available in Anegundi village and across the river in Hampi bazaar; visitors often carry water for the climb as facilities atop the hill are basic.
Contact & Official Info
Karnataka Tourism (karnatakatourism.org) and local Hampi/Anegundi tourism offices; confirm details locally as the shrine is community-managed.
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