Anjanadri Betta – Birthplace of Lord Hanuman

Anjanadri Betta is a tranquil hillside located near Hampi in Karnataka. It is said to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, born by the blessings of Vayu deva.

Anjanadri Hill holds immense spiritual and historical significance and attracts a large number of devotees from across the world. It is located in ancient Kishkindha region, once ruled by vanara king Sugriva.

Standing atop the hill offers captivating panoramic scenery of rugged rocky terrain, verdant paddy fields, the gracefully flowing Tungabhadra River, and several ancient monuments. The sunrise and sunset here are among the most spectacular sights visitors can experience during their visit to the hill.

During sunrise and sunset, the golden hues cast over the boulder-strewn landscape create a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience for pilgrims, trekkers, and photographers alike.

Located in Hanumanahalli near Anegundi and Hampi, this revered destination is part of Karnataka’s Koppal district.

According to the Sthala Purana, this hill is the sacred place where Anjana Devi gave birth to Lord Hanuman with the blessings of Vayu Deva. She was blessed with brave, strong, intelligent, and virtuous son. The child born to Anjana Devi was named Anjaneya. Hence, the hill came to be known as Anjanadri Hill — the hill named after Anjana Devi.

This sacred hill is also believed to be the place where Lord Anjaneya spent his childhood and performed many divine bala lilas.

According to ancient legend, young Anjaneya once believed the rising Sun to be a glowing ripe fruit and leapt into the sky to grasp it. Seeing this, Indra struck him with his thunderbolt, causing him to fall back to the earth. This incident is said to have led to the name “Hanuman,” as his jaw (hanu) was injured during the fall.

As a playful child, Anjaneya often disturbed sages engaged in deep penance. However, unknowingly receiving their blessings, he began to manifest his divine powers and spiritual strength.

Being the son of Vayu Deva, Bala Anjaneya was believed to move with the speed of wind itself. He would joyfully traverse forests, hills, and skies, showcasing his supernatural agility.

Even in childhood, Anjaneya effortlessly lifted heavy rocks and trees during his playful activities, indicating his unmatched physical strength and divine energy.

This hill is also associated with an important episode from the Ramayana. It was once a part of the Kishkindha region, which was ruled by Sugriva, where Hanuman served as the commander of his army.

When Lord Rama and Lord Lakshmana arrived in the Kishkindha region in search of Sita Devi, the sacred meeting between Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman is believed to have taken place here. Later, Hanuman took upon himself the divine mission of finding Sita Devi.

Hanuman temple located atop Anjanadri Hill is a small yet powerful shrine, where one needs to climb around 500–600 rocky steep steps to reach the top.

The temple follows Dravidian-style architecture and features a small, compact garbhagriha enshrining Lord Anjaneya. The deity of Lord Anjaneya is adorned with flowers, sindoor, enhancing the powerful aura of the place.

Hanuman Mala: It is an annual festival celebrated during Dhanur Masa. Devotees undertake a sacred vow (deeksha) for 5, 7, or 9 days, or even for an entire month, depending on their devotion and spiritual commitment to Lord Anjaneya. The festival is observed throughout the month at Anjanadri Betta. Upon completing their vow, devotees take a holy dip in the Tungabhadra River, climb the sacred hill, have the darshan of Lord Anjaneya, and ceremonially remove and offer their Hanuman Mala outside the temple, marking the conclusion of their deeksha.

Hanuman Jayanti: This festival is celebrated on Chaitra Purnima, attracting lakhs of devotees, who visits seeking the darshan of Lord Anjaneya.

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

To enjoy the panoramic views from Anjanadri Betta, the best time to visit is between October and February. This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and trekking.

Hampe: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is renowned for its magnificent Vijayanagara-era ruins, ancient temples, and stunning boulder-strewn landscapes. It is one of the most important historical and spiritual destinations in Karnataka.

Virupaksha Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest functioning temples in India and a major pilgrimage site in Hampi. The temple is famous for its towering gopuram and intricate Dravidian-style architecture.

Sanapur Lake: Sanapur Lake is a scenic waterbody surrounded by rocky hills and lush landscapes, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. It is popular for coracle rides, cliff jumping, and breathtaking sunset views.

Anegundi: Anegundi is a historic village believed to be part of the ancient Kishkindha kingdom mentioned in the Ramayana. The village is known for its temples, caves, and rich cultural heritage connected to Lord Hanuman and the epic Ramayana.

Embark on a spiritual journey to Anjanadri Betta and seek the divine darshan of Lord Anjaneya. For a hassle-free pilgrimage experience and the company of like-minded devotees, join Tirthha Yatra’s Hampi Yatra.

By Air: Jindal Vijaynagar Airport is the nearest airport to reach Hampi. From here, there are many buses and taxis are available.

By Railway: Nearest railway stations to Anjanadri Hill are Hospet Junction railway station – 30 km, Koppal railway station – 39 km, Munirabad railway station – 19 km and Gangavati railway station – 17 km.

By Road: Hampi is connected by National Highways NH48 and NH50. There are many government and private buses to Koppal or Hospete. From here, you can hire a taxi.