Budget Traveller: 9 Famous Hanuman Temples In South India To Visit This Diwali Under Rs 15,000

Diwali is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. Lord Hanuman, known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, holds a special place in the celebrations. For devotees, visiting a Hanuman temple during the festive season can be a meaningful way to seek blessings for strength, prosperity and protection.

South India is home to several ancient temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman, each known for its unique history, religious significance and traditions. From Anjanadri Betta in Karnataka, believed to be Hanuman's birthplace, to the famous five-faced Hanuman shrines in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, these destinations offer opportunities for both spiritual exploration and budget-friendly travel.

If you are planning a religious trip this Diwali without spending too much, here are nine famous Hanuman temples across South India, along with estimated travel expenses to help you plan your journey. Anjanadri Betta, located near Hampi in Karnataka, is a sacred hill believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.

Also known as Kishkindha, the destination holds considerable importance in Hindu mythology and is associated with events from the Ramayana. Visitors have to climb a series of steps to reach the hilltop temple. Apart from its religious significance, the destination offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, making it an interesting stop for spiritual travellers and nature lovers.

How to reach: Travellers from Delhi can take a train to Hosapete (Hospet), the nearest major railway station, and continue to Hampi by local bus or auto-rickshaw. Average budget: Rs 8,000-Rs 12,000 per person for a short trip from Delhi, including sleeper-class train travel, budget accommodation, meals and local transport.

Local travel between Hospet and Hampi can cost approximately Rs 50-Rs 150. Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple is among the prominent Hanuman temples in Tamil Nadu. The shrine is particularly famous for its massive 18-foot-tall idol of Lord Anjaneya.

Another distinctive feature is its sanctum, which does not have a roof. The temple is believed to have an ancient history dating back to the Mahabharata era. Devotees visit the shrine throughout the year to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Hanuman.

How to reach: From Delhi, travellers can take a train towards Salem, which is approximately 50 km from Namakkal, and cover the remaining distance by bus or taxi. Average budget: Rs 10,000-Rs 14,000 per person, including return sleeper-class train tickets, one or two nights in budget accommodation, meals and local transportation.

Located in Tadepalli near Vijayawada, the Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple is dedicated to the five-faced form of Lord Hanuman. According to Hindu mythology, Hanuman assumed this powerful form to defeat the demon Ahiravana. Each face represents a different divine form, and devotees visit the temple to seek protection, courage and blessings.

The shrine is particularly significant for those who worship Lord Hanuman in his Panchmukhi avatar. How to reach: Vijayawada is well connected to Delhi by train. From Vijayawada railway station, travellers can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Tadepalli.

Average budget: Rs 8,000-Rs 11,000 per person, including return sleeper-class train tickets, budget accommodation, meals and local transport. Sleeper fares from Delhi to Vijayawada start at approximately Rs 750 one way, depending on the train and availability.

The Sri Karya Siddhi Anjaneya Swamy Temple in Bengaluru is dedicated to Lord Hanuman in his wish-fulfilling form, known as Karya Siddhi Anjaneya. Devotees believe that offering prayers here helps overcome obstacles and fulfil important wishes.

The temple is visited by people seeking success, prosperity and peace in their personal and professional lives. It is a worthwhile spiritual stop for those exploring Bengaluru during the festive season. How to reach: Bengaluru is well connected to Delhi through trains and flights.

Travellers can use local buses, metro services and auto-rickshaws to reach the temple.