Sri Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy Temple – Hanuman’s Five-Faced Glory Near Mantralayam

 

Location

This ancient temple is located in Panchamukhi, near Mantralayam, in Karnataka State. It is a revered pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Hanuman and Sri Raghavendra Swamy.

Spiritual Significance

• The temple is dedicated to Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy, the five-faced form of Lord Hanuman, each face symbolizing a divine aspect:
• Hanuman (East) – Courage and strength
• Narasimha (South) – Protection from evil
• Garuda (West) – Removal of poison and fear
• Varaha (North) – Upliftment and rescue
• Hayagriva (Upward) – Wisdom and knowledge
• It is believed that Anjaneya Swamy self-manifested on a massive rock atop the hillock.
• Sri Raghavendra Swamy performed intense meditation here for 12 years, making it a spiritually charged site for followers of the Dvaita tradition.

Mythological & Devotional Context

• The temple is closely associated with Mantralayam pilgrimage, and many devotees visit both sites together.
• The five-headed form of Hanuman is said to have been revealed here to protect and bless devotees during a time of great spiritual need.
• The rock formation and surrounding terrain are considered sacred and energized by the penance of Raghavendra Swamy.

Festivals

• Hanuman Jayanti is the most celebrated festival at this temple, marked by:
• Special abhishekams and alankarams
• Bhajans, homams, and annadanam
• Large gatherings of devotees from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and beyond

Temple Timings

Day	Morning Hours	Evening Hours
Daily	6:00 AM – 1:00 PM	3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturday		6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Beliefs & Spiritual Significance

• Self-manifested Deity: It is believed that Lord Hanuman self-incarnated on a massive rock at this hillock in His five-faced form (Panchamukhi) to bless devotees and protect dharma.
• Raghavendra Swamy’s Penance: Sri Raghavendra Swamy meditated here for 12 years before entering Jeeva Samadhi at Mantralayam. His intense devotion attracted divine darshan from Panchamukha Anjaneya, Kolhapur Mahalakshmi, Lord Venkateswara, and Varaha Swamy.
• Liberation from Fear & Sorrow: Worshipping Panchamukhi Hanuman is believed to grant courage, wisdom, protection, and freedom from fear and sorrow.
• Hanuman Jayanti and Pournami days are especially auspicious, drawing large crowds for special abhishekams and bhajans.

Getting Here

• By Road:
• The temple is located 20 km from Mantralayam, on the opposite bank of the River Tungabhadra.
• You can hire autos, taxis, or local buses from Mantralayam. Travel time is around 30–40 minutes.
• By Train:
• Nearest major station: Kurnool (73 km).
• From Kurnool, take a bus or taxi to Mantralayam, then proceed to Panchamukhi.
• By Air:
• Nearest airport: Kadapa (278 km).
• Bengaluru Airport is also accessible (approx. 358 km away) for long-distance travelers.

Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening hours for peaceful darshan. Avoid peak heat during midday.
• Facilities: A few small shops nearby offer snacks, water, and pooja items.
• Photography: Allowed in outer areas; avoid taking pictures inside sanctum.