Hanuman Garhi rises above the centre of Ayodhya like a small fort, with round corner bastions and thick walls. According to tradition, Lord Ram gave this spot to Hanuman so that he could watch over the city, and pilgrims have long made a point of coming here first, to ask Hanuman’s leave before going on to Ram’s own temple.
A stairway of 76 steps climbs to the shrine, where the main image shows the child Hanuman seated in the lap of his mother Anjani. The present temple is generally dated to the 18th century and is said to have been built with the support of the Nawab of Awadh.
Top things to do at Hanuman Garhi
Climb the 76 steps
The stairs are steep but short, with shops selling laddus, flowers and sindoor along the approach. Take them slowly on hot days.
Offer laddus to Hanuman
Besan laddus are the customary offering. Buy them from one of the sweet shops below and hand them to the priests at the sanctum, who return a portion as prasad.
Look out over the town
From the upper level you can see across the rooftops of Ramkot towards the Ram Mandir — a useful way to get your bearings.
How to get to Hanuman Garhi
- On foot: Hanuman Garhi is on the lane between Ram Path and the Ram Mandir, roughly ten minutes’ walk from the temple entry and about 1 km from Ayodhya Dham Junction.
- By e-rickshaw: ask for Hanuman Garhi chauraha; vehicles stop at the foot of the approach lane.
Insider tips
- Tuesdays and Saturdays, sacred to Hanuman, are far busier — come early or choose another day.
- Monkeys here are bold. Keep prasad covered, hold spectacles and do not carry loose food.
- The steps can be difficult for elderly visitors; ask locally about assistance before climbing.
- Opening hours are long but change on festival days; check on arrival.
Tours that include Hanuman Garhi
These guided trips cover Hanuman Garhi or combine easily with a visit:
Private day trip from US$40 Lucknow: Private Ayodhya & Ram Mandir Temple Tour
A private guided day in Ayodhya from Lucknow by car. You visit the Ram Mandir, Hanuman Garhi, Dashrath Mahal and other ancient sites before driving back in the evening.
- Ram Mandir darshan
- Hanuman Garhi
- Dashrath Mahal and other old shrines
Private day trip From Lucknow: Ayodhya Private Day Trip with Guide
A private day trip from Lucknow with a guide: Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan and more, with a peaceful walk along the ghats of the Saryu.
- Ram Janmabhoomi
- Hanuman Garhi and Kanak Bhawan
- Walk along the Saryu ghats
