Panchmukhi Hanuman Ashram is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site located in the city of Chitrakoot in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The ashram is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a Hindu deity revered for his strength, courage, and devotion to Lord Rama. The ashram is known for its beautiful temple, which houses a statue of Lord Hanuman with five faces, or panchmukhi, representing his five forms or aspects.
The Panchmukhi Hanuman Ashram is located on the banks of the Mandakini River and is surrounded by lush green forests and hills. The ashram was established by the famous Hindu saint and philosopher Swami Keshavanandaji Maharaj in the early 20th century. Since then, the ashram has become a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Hanuman from all over India and beyond.
The main attraction of the Panchmukhi Hanuman Ashram is the temple, built in the traditional Indian style of architecture. The temple is adorned with beautiful carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The highlight of the temple is the statue of Lord Hanuman with five faces, made of black stone and about 10 feet tall. The five faces of the figure represent the five forms of Lord Hanuman - Hanuman, Narasimha, Garuda, Varaha, and Hayagriva.
The ashram also has several other shrines and temples dedicated to various Hindu deities, including Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha. The ashram also has a beautiful garden and a small museum, which houses artefacts and exhibits related to Hindu mythology and the life of Lord Hanuman.
The Panchmukhi Hanuman Ashram is a place of worship and a centre for spiritual and cultural activities. The ashram organizes regular bhajans, kirtans, other devotional exercises, and yoga and meditation classes. The ashram also runs a charitable hospital and a school for underprivileged children as part of its commitment to social service.
Places To Visit Near Panchmukhi Hanuman Ashram
Ramghat:
Located just a few kilometres from the Panchmukhi Hanuman Ashram, Ramghat is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site on the banks of the Mandakini River. The ghat is believed to be where Lord Rama and Goddess Sita dipped in the river during their exile.
Located about 19 km from the ashram, the Gupt Godavari Caves are a group of ancient caves believed to have been used by Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana during their exile. The caves are also famous for their beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Bharat Milap Temple:
Located about 10 km from the ashram, the Bharat Milap Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and his brother Bharata. The temple is believed to be where Bharata met Lord Rama during his exile and convinced him to return to Ayodhya.
Located about 11 km from the ashram, the Hanuman Dhara Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is famous for its natural waterfall, believed to have been created by Lord Hanuman himself.
Kamadgiri Temple:
Located about 5 km from the ashram, the Kamadgiri Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is located on a hill believed to be where Lord Rama and Goddess Sita spent a part of their exile.