Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple Aligarh

Location of Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple

Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple is located on Achal Road near Achal Taal in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh.

The temple is close to the city centre and can be reached easily by auto-rickshaw, e-rickshaw, taxi, local bus and private vehicle. Shri Varshney Temple and several other popular temples are also located in the surrounding area.

History of Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple

Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple is regarded as an ancient shrine associated with the religious heritage of Aligarh and the Braj region.

According to temple tradition, the unique form of Lord Hanuman was discovered by Mahendranath Yogi Ji Maharaj, a revered saint associated with the Nath tradition. It is believed that the saint received divine guidance and came to know about the worship of Hanuman Ji in the form of a squirrel.

Mahendranath Yogi Ji Maharaj worshipped this sacred form and helped establish the temple as a centre of Hanuman devotion. Over time, the shrine developed through the efforts of saints, mahants and local devotees.

The temple has been renovated and beautified in different periods, but its central tradition of worshipping Gilahraj Ji Maharaj has remained unchanged.

Who Built Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple?

The temple’s religious tradition is associated with Mahendranath Yogi Ji Maharaj, who is believed to have discovered and worshipped the unique squirrel form of Lord Hanuman.

The temple was developed by mahants of the Nath tradition and later expanded with the support of devotees and local religious committees. The present temple complex is the result of continuous worship, renovation and community service.

Why Is Lord Hanuman Worshipped as a Squirrel?

According to the temple’s spiritual tradition, Lord Hanuman is worshipped here in the form of a squirrel because of the connection between the squirrel and the service of Lord Rama.

In the Ramayana, squirrels are traditionally believed to have helped Lord Rama’s army in constructing the bridge to Lanka. Their small contribution was considered valuable because it was offered with complete devotion.

The squirrel form also symbolises that even the smallest act of sincere service can become spiritually powerful when performed with faith. Devotees believe that Hanuman Ji accepted this humble form to teach the importance of devotion, humility and selfless service.

Connection with Lord Krishna and Balarama

Another religious tradition associated with the temple states that the squirrel form of Hanuman Ji was worshipped by Dauji Maharaj, or Lord Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna.

According to this belief, the worship of Gilahraj Ji connects the Ramayana tradition of Lord Hanuman with the Krishna and Balarama traditions of Braj. This makes the temple spiritually significant for devotees of both Lord Hanuman and Lord Krishna.

Religious Significance of Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple

Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple is considered a powerful Siddhapeeth. Devotees believe that Lord Hanuman listens to sincere prayers and protects worshippers from difficulties.

People visit the temple to pray for:

• Protection from fear and negative influences
• Relief from obstacles and difficulties
• Success in education and career
• Strength and courage
• Good health and mental peace
• Protection from accidents and danger
• Victory over enemies
• Relief from the effects of Shani
• Family happiness and prosperity
• Fulfilment of sincere wishes

Devotees particularly visit the temple on Tuesdays and Saturdays to recite Hanuman Chalisa and offer sindoor and oil.

The Unique Idol of Gilahraj Ji Maharaj

The principal attraction of the temple is the unusual idol of Lord Hanuman in a squirrel-like form. This sacred representation is considered extremely rare and is the main reason the temple has gained recognition among devotees.

The idol is decorated with flowers, sindoor, garlands and sacred ornaments. On special occasions, the deity receives elaborate shringar and devotees are allowed to have special darshan.

The unusual form encourages devotees to understand that divine power can appear in many forms and that devotion is more important than external appearance.

Architecture of Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple

The temple follows a traditional North Indian style of temple architecture. The main shrine is surrounded by prayer areas and smaller religious spaces.

Important features of the temple include:

• Main sanctum of Gilahraj Ji Hanuman
• Traditional temple entrance
• Prayer and bhajan area
• Smaller shrines dedicated to Hindu deities
• Hanuman Ji’s dhwaja and trishul
• Bells and devotional flags
• Space for Hanuman Chalisa recitation
• Prasad counter
• Seating area for devotees
• Facilities near Achal Taal

The temple is located near Achal Sarovar, which adds to the peaceful and devotional atmosphere of the area.

Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple Timings

On Tuesdays, Saturdays, Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Navami and other major festivals, the temple may open earlier and remain accessible for extended darshan.

Best Time for Darshan

The best time for peaceful darshan is between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM. Devotees who wish to attend the evening aarti should reach the temple before 6:30 PM.

Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered especially auspicious but usually remain crowded. Visitors seeking a quieter experience can choose a weekday morning.

Daily Puja and Rituals

The daily worship activities at Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple include:

• Morning Puja
• Mangal Aarti
• Sindoor Shringar
• Oil offering
• Hanuman Chalisa Path
• Sundarkand Path
• Ram Naam Sankirtan
• Bhajan and kirtan
• Evening Aarti
• Special prasad offering
• Shayan Darshan

Special Hanuman Puja, Sundarkand Path and Mahamrityunjaya Mantra rituals may also be organised for devotees.

Offerings at Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple

Devotees commonly offer:

• Sindoor
• Jasmine oil
• Chameli oil
• Red flowers
• Red cloth
• Kevda and rose garlands
• Boondi laddoo
• Besan laddoo
• Chana and jaggery
• Bananas
• Coconut
• Betel leaves
• Sacred thread
• Incense and camphor

Devotees should offer oil and sindoor according to the instructions of temple priests.

Prasad at Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple

The common prasad offered to Gilahraj Ji includes:

• Boondi laddoo
• Besan laddoo
• Chana and jaggery
• Bananas
• Coconut
• Mishri
• Panchamrit
• Seasonal fruits

During Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Navami and special bhandaras, devotees are served additional prasad and vegetarian meals.

Hanuman Jayanti Celebration

Hanuman Jayanti is one of the most important festivals at Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple. The temple is decorated with flowers, flags and lights.

Special activities include:

• Abhishek of Gilahraj Ji
• Sindoor shringar
• Hanuman Chalisa Path
• Sundarkand Path
• Akhand Ramayan Path
• Bhajan and kirtan
• Religious procession
• Special aarti
• Bhandara
• Prasad distribution

Large crowds visit the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman.

Tuesday and Saturday Worship

Tuesday and Saturday are considered special days for Hanuman worship. Devotees offer sindoor, jasmine oil, laddoos, chana and jaggery.

Many visitors also recite Hanuman Chalisa, Bajrang Baan and Hanuman Ashtak. Saturday worship is considered especially beneficial for devotees seeking relief from fear, obstacles and the adverse effects of Shani.

Other Festivals Celebrated

The temple also celebrates:

• Ram Navami
• Krishna Janmashtami
• Diwali
• Deepavali
• Holi
• Navratri
• Guru Purnima
• Sharad Purnima
• Makar Sankranti
• Hanuman Jayanti
• Sunderkand special programmes

Special devotional gatherings and community meals are organised during these occasions.

Entry Fee and Special Puja Charges

General entry and darshan at Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple are free.

Charges or prescribed donations may apply for:

• Special Hanuman Puja
• Sundarkand Path
• Akhand Ramayan Path
• Special shringar
• Personal sankalp
• Bhandara seva
• Festival sponsorship
• Prasad and offering arrangements

Donations should be made only through authorised temple counters.

Best Season to Visit

The most comfortable period to visit Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple is from October to March.

Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Navami, Tuesdays and Saturdays provide a vibrant devotional experience. However, these days may have longer queues and heavy crowds.

How to Reach Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple Aligarh

By Train

Aligarh Junction Railway Station is the nearest major railway station. The temple is located close to the main city area and can be reached by auto-rickshaw, e-rickshaw or taxi.

By Bus

Aligarh Bus Stand is located close to the temple. Local autos and e-rickshaws are available from the bus stand towards Achal Taal and Achal Road.

By Air

Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is the nearest major airport. Visitors can travel from Delhi to Aligarh by train, bus, taxi or private vehicle.

Agra Airport is another option for selected domestic routes.

By Road

The temple is accessible through GT Road, Achal Road and the main roads of Aligarh city. It can be reached easily from Delhi, Agra, Mathura, Hathras and Bulandshahr.

Approximate Distance from Important Places

Travel distance depends on the route and local traffic.

Nearby Places to Visit

Visitors can explore these places after darshan:

• Achal Taal
• Shri Varshney Temple
• Kamakhya Mata Temple
• Naqvi Park
• Aligarh Muslim University
• Sir Syed House Museum
• Aligarh Fort
• Shri Khereshwar Temple
• Clock Tower
• Shri Purnagiri Temple

Suggested Visit Plan

Begin your visit with morning puja and aarti at Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple. After darshan, spend some peaceful time near Achal Taal.

You can then visit Shri Varshney Temple, Naqvi Park and Aligarh Muslim University. During the evening, return to the temple to attend Hanuman Chalisa Path and evening aarti.

Important Guidelines for Visitors

• Wear clean and modest clothing.
• Remove footwear before entering the temple.
• Maintain silence near the main sanctum.
• Follow the designated queue for darshan.
• Offer sindoor and oil only as instructed by the priests.
• Do not touch the main idol without permission.
• Follow photography restrictions inside the sanctum.
• Keep prasad and food away from monkeys.
• Take care of children and personal belongings.
• Avoid carrying large bags during festivals.
• Keep Achal Taal and temple surroundings clean.
• Follow the directions of temple volunteers and security personnel.

Conclusion

Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple is one of Aligarh’s most distinctive and spiritually significant temples. The rare squirrel form of Lord Hanuman, the temple’s connection with Mahendranath Yogi Ji Maharaj and its association with the devotional traditions of Lord Rama, Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama make it unique.

The peaceful location near Achal Taal, daily Hanuman worship, Tuesday and Saturday rituals, Hanuman Chalisa recitation and grand Hanuman Jayanti celebrations attract devotees throughout the year. A visit to Gilahraj Ji Hanuman Temple offers a memorable experience of faith, humility, devotion and the protective blessings of Lord Hanuman.