Pandupol Mandir, Sariska: A 5,000-Year-Old Epic Escape in the Wild

Pandupol Mandir, located deep inside the Sariska Tiger Reserve of Rajasthan, is a sacred site where mythology, spirituality, and wilderness come together. Known for its reclining Hanuman idol and origin in the Mahabharata epic, Pandupol Hanuman Temple holds historical, religious, and environmental importance. According to legend, this is the site where Bhima met Lord Hanuman during the Pandavas’ exile—a powerful story carved in stone and memory.

Mythological Origins

• The name Pandupol (Pandava’s Gate) refers to the legend of Bhima, the mightiest Pandava, who struck a rocky cliff with his mace (“pol”) to carve out a pass during their exile

• Here, Bhima encountered an old monkey—Lord Hanuman in disguise—who humbled him by asking him to lift his tail. Bhima failed, repented, and Hanuman revealed his divine form

• A reclining statue of Hanuman now stands as a daily reminder of that divine lesson

The Temple & Holy Waters

• Pandupol Mandir features a uniquely reclining Hanuman idol, believed to occupy the exact spot of Hanuman’s revelation

• A pure mountain spring nearby forms a holy tank where devotees cleanse themselves in ritual baths, said to wash away sins .

• Adjacent to the temple lies a 35-foot cascading waterfall embraced by Aravalli cliffs and verdant greenery—a sanctuary for langurs, peafowl, and treepies

Visiting Tips & Timings

• Opening Hours: Generally open from 5 AM to 6 PM; some sources mention 7 PM closure

• Entry Rules: Access requires passing through the core Sariska area; private vehicles are allowed Tuesday and Saturday, sometimes on full moon days, with an entry fee (~₹250) .

• Access Distance: Located around 35–56 km from Alwar, and 21 km from the sanctuary gate

Cultural Highlights & Festivals

• Lakhi Mela: Held annually during Chaitra Navratri (March–April) and Bhado shukla ashtami (September), drawing nearly 50,000 devotees

• Devotee Rush: Heavy pilgrim influx, especially on auspicious days, has prompted the Supreme Court to form a panel to manage environmental impact in the reserve

Nature & Wildlife Surroundings

• A trek to Pandupol unveils the scrub-thorn, dry deciduous Aravalli forests—home to tigers, leopards, deer, langurs, peacocks, and 200+ bird species

• The Bhima Pahari (hill split by Bhima’s mace) and cascading springs add to the scenic and spiritual backdrop

Conservation vs. Pilgrimage

• Pandupol lies within the core zone of Sariska Tiger Reserve, triggering concerns over habitat disturbance.

• Solutions like electric shuttle buses, wildlife corridors, and relocation of nearby settlements are being considered to minimize environmental impact

Final Thoughts

Pandupol Mandir is not just a sacred site; it’s where myth meets wilderness. Pilgrims seeking divine blessings, history lovers tracing Mahabharata lore, and nature enthusiasts exploring Sariska’s rich biodiversity all find solace here. While visitation must balance spirituality with conservation, this hidden gem remains a testament to Rajasthan’s cultural and natural harmony.

Quick Visitor Snapshot

Explore this enchanting blend of legend, devotion, and ecology the next time you journey into the wild heart of Rajasthan.