Sri Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir & Floating Stones: Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple, renowned as the Five-Faced Hanuman Temple, is nestled approximately 2 kilometers away from the revered Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram. This sacred edifice is a dedicated abode for Lord Hanuman, and it boasts a unique representation of the deity with five faces. These five faces embody the central countenance of Lord Hanuman, with Lord Narasimha, Lord Adivaraha, Lord Garuda, and Lord Hayagriva adorning the flanks. The divine statue is adorned with a sacred layer of senthooram, applied by devoted saints.
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- Entry Fee: No admission fee is required for entry.
- Contact Information: Not available.
- Address: Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, 623526, India.
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- Temple Timings:
- Monday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Tuesday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Wednesday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Thursday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Friday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Saturday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Sunday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
Intriguingly, the year 1964 marked a significant event when the aftermath of a cyclone in Dhanuskhodi prompted the relocation of the idols of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita to this temple. They found their resting place here alongside the illustrious Panchamukha Hanuman. This temple, also known as Panchamukha Anjaneya, is a must-visit destination for devotees embarking on a spiritual journey to Rameshwaram.
Floating Stones: A Marvelous Attraction
Beyond its religious significance, the Five-Faced Hanuman Temple holds yet another captivating attraction—the “floating stones.” These remarkable stones have been maintained within the temple complex, offering a fascinating spectacle for visitors. These very stones played a pivotal role in the construction of the legendary floating bridge, known as Sethu Bandhanam, which bridged the expanse between Rameshwaram and Lanka. This bridge was instrumental in facilitating Lord Rama, Lord Lakshman, and their allies’ passage to Lanka to rescue Goddess Sita and vanquish the nefarious demon, Ravana.
History of Sri Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir & Floating Stones
Delving into the temple’s legend and history unveils a tale of valor and divine intervention. During the epic conflict between Lord Rama and the demon king Ravana, who had kidnapped Goddess Sita, Ravana sought the aid of Mahiravana, the ruler of Patala Loka. In a bid to shield Lord Rama and Lord Lakshman, Lord Hanuman erected an imposing fortress around them using his formidable tail.
Subsequently, Mahiravana assumed the guise of Vibhishana, Ravana’s brother who had associated with Lord Rama in the battle. Deceptively, he transported Lord Rama and Lord Lakshman to the depths of Patala Loka, intent on their demise. Lord Hanuman, tirelessly scouring for them, eventually ventured into Patala Loka. There, he discovered that to prevent Mahiravana, he had to extinguish all five lamps simultaneously. These five lamps radiated in different directions. To rescue Lord Rama and Lord Lakshman, Lord Hanuman took the form of Panchamukhi Hanuman and extinguished all the lamps concurrently. The five faces of this divine form symbolize Lord Varaha facing north, Lord Narasimha facing south, Lord Garuda facing west, Lord Hanuman facing east, and Lord Hayagriva facing the zenith.
Reaching the Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple
Accessing the Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple is a convenient endeavor, situated just 2 kilometers from the Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple. Travelers have different transportation options at their disposal, including buses, cabs, and auto rickshaws. Visitors can comfortably reach this temple, assuring a seamless and spiritually enhancing pilgrimage.