Lord Hanuman holds a special place in Hindu mythology because of his devotion to Lord Rama and his important role in the battle against Ravana. According to the Ramayana, Hanuman helped Rama rescue Sita from Lanka and played a key part in the construction of Ram Setu. The bridge was built by the Vanar Sena using stones believed to have been marked with Lord Rama’s name.
Hanuman’s connection with Lord Rama also makes him an important part of Diwali celebrations, which mark Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. During this festival, devotees across India offer prayers to Hanuman and seek his blessings for strength, protection and wisdom.
South India is home to several ancient and well-known Hanuman temples. These shrines are associated with different legends, religious traditions and architectural features. From temples with enormous idols to sacred sites surrounded by natural beauty, each place offers devotees a distinct spiritual experience.
9 Famous Hanuman Temples Across South India
1. Anjanadri Betta, Karnataka
Located near Hampi, Anjanadri Betta is a sacred hill traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. It is also associated with Kishkindha, the kingdom of the Vanaras mentioned in the Ramayana. Devotees visit the hill to offer prayers and seek Hanuman’s blessings.
2. Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple, Tamil Nadu
The Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple is widely known for its impressive 18-foot-tall idol of Lord Hanuman. One of its distinctive features is the sanctum, which does not have a roof. The temple is also associated with ancient traditions and is believed to have a history dating back to the Mahabharata period.
3. Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Situated in Tadepalli, Vijayawada, this temple is dedicated to the five-faced form of Lord Hanuman, known as Panchmukhi Hanuman. According to religious belief, Hanuman assumed this form to defeat the demon Ahiravana. Devotees visit the shrine to worship this powerful manifestation of the deity.
4. Sri Karya Siddhi Anjaneya Swamy Temple, Bengaluru
This temple is dedicated to Karya Siddhi Anjaneya, a form of Lord Hanuman associated with fulfilling devotees’ wishes. Worshippers visit the shrine to seek blessings and pray for success in their personal and professional lives.
5. Sri Karmanghat Hanuman Devasthanam, Telangana
The Sri Karmanghat Hanuman Devasthanam is an important religious site with roots in the Kakatiya period. The temple is associated with the discovery of a self-manifested idol of Lord Hanuman, making it a significant place of worship for devotees.
6. Shree Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple, Tamil Nadu
Located in Rameswaram, this temple is known for its five-faced Hanuman idol. Each face represents a different deity: Hanuman, Narasimha, Garuda, Varaha and Hayagriva. Devotees believe that worshipping here helps protect them from negative influences.
7. Shree Saatenhalli Shantesha Hanuman, Karnataka
Situated in Haveri, this shrine is also known as the Shantesha Swami Temple. The word ‘Shantesha’ is associated with peace. Devotees visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Hanuman.
8. Sree Datta Anjaneya Kshetram, Kerala
This temple is dedicated to both Lord Hanuman and Lord Dattatreya. One of its distinctive religious practices is the Coconut Puja, which devotees perform for 41 consecutive days with the belief that it can help fulfil their wishes.
9. Sri Ashtamsa Varadha Anjaneyar Temple, Tamil Nadu
The temple is known for its distinctive depiction of Lord Hanuman, with Goddess Lakshmi believed to bless devotees from his right palm. Another notable feature is the direction of Hanuman’s tail, which faces north. This direction is traditionally associated with Kubera, the Hindu deity of wealth.
Visit Hanuman Temples During Diwali 2026
Diwali 2026 will be celebrated on November 8. The festival offers an opportunity for devotees to remember Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and his return to Ayodhya. Visiting one of these Hanuman temples during the festive period can be a meaningful way to offer prayers and participate in the celebrations.
Disclaimer: The temple histories, legends and religious beliefs mentioned in this article are based on traditional accounts. Visitors are advised to check local temple timings, rituals and entry arrangements before planning their visit.