The short answer
Pandupol Hanuman Temple: what visitors should know first
Go if you want a short pilgrimage within the reserve and can handle a forest road. Access depends on reserve rules and vehicle permission. Tuesdays and Saturdays are the main devotional days; check current rules and avoid the monsoon.
History and context
The story behind Pandupol Hanuman Temple
The site is inside Sariska Tiger Reserve and is associated with the Pandava exile and the Bhima and Hanuman story. A small Hanuman temple stands beside a waterfall about 35 feet high, and the sanctum is traditionally described as holding a reclining Hanuman.
Useful facts
Pandupol Hanuman Temple facts at a glance
- Location
- Inside Sariska Tiger Reserve
- Faith
- Hindu
- Dedication
- Hanuman (reclining)
- Visitor note
- Tuesdays and Saturdays are devotional days
- Setting
- Waterfall about 35 ft
- Access
- By permission, vehicle limits apply
Why it matters
Why Pandupol Hanuman Temple is worth your time
Pandupol is tied to the Mahabharata. Tradition says the Pandavas sheltered here during their exile, and that Bhima, the strongest brother, met Hanuman here. The name means gateway of the Pandavas.
For many local families, the shrine is the reason to enter the reserve at all. It combines devotion and forest, and its festival days bring crowds.
Visiting also shows the other side of Sariska. Most people come for tigers, but this shrine is the reason many local families enter the forest, and it keeps an older, quieter use of the land alive alongside the wildlife safari economy.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Reclining Hanuman
An unusual form of the deity.
- 02
The waterfall
A seasonal fall beside the shrine.
- 03
Forest setting
Langurs and peafowl are common.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Confirm access with the forest office before you go. Rules for vehicles and entry fees have differed, and the reserve closes in the monsoon. Travel with a driver familiar with the route and carry water, because there are few facilities.
The temple is small and sits beside a waterfall of about 35 feet. Inside, Hanuman is shown reclining, which is unusual. Remove shoes, dress modestly and follow the priests' lead. The waterfall flows mainly after the monsoon, so the scenery varies by season.
The forest around Pandupol also holds langurs, peafowl and other birds, so keep food out of sight and watch your belongings. Combine the visit with a safari or the Kankwari trip if time allows, but do not rush the road.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Confirm access and fees with the forest office
- Dress modestly and remove shoes
- Secure food and belongings from monkeys
- Avoid the monsoon months
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Inside Sariska Tiger Reserve, Alwar district
- Time needed
- Half a day including travel
- Best time
- October to March; Tuesdays and Saturdays draw devotees
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The shrine lies at the end of a forest track and the final approach can be rough. The temple itself is small. Shade is limited and seating is basic. Visit only if comfortable with a rough vehicle ride.
- Tickets and access
- The shrine lies in Sariska's core zone. Entry requires a reserve ticket, and vehicle access is reported to be limited, with private vehicles allowed mainly on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Confirm current rules with the forest office.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Pandupol Hanuman Temple
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The shrine lies at the end of a forest track and the final approach can be rough. The temple itself is small. Shade is limited and seating is basic. Visit only if comfortable with a rough vehicle ride.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Can I visit Pandupol on any day?
Vehicle rules differ; Tuesdays and Saturdays are usual.
Is there a fee?
A reserve entry fee applies; confirm current rates.
Is it open in the monsoon?
Usually not; the core closes July to September.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.