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.