Weather:9°C to 26°C (Perfect for visiting)
Category: Temple
Tags: Hindu Temple, Religious Site, Lord Hanuman
Timings: 5:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Entry Fee: Free

Overview:
Mahavir Mandir, located just outside Patna Junction, is the second-largest religious shrine in North India and a prominent temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Devotees from across India visit daily to seek blessings, believing that Lord Sankat Mochan (Hanuman) fulfills the wishes of sincere worshippers, earning the temple its reputation as "Manokamna Temple". The temple is an important religious and cultural center, attracting huge crowds, especially during festivals like Ramnavami and Hanuman Jayanti.

The temple complex includes shops, an office, and even a palmistry center for visitors, making it a hub for both spiritual and practical activities. The Naivedyam prasadam, prepared by Tirupati experts, is a must-try delicacy for all who visit.

History:
Originally established by Swami Balanand in 1730 AD, the temple was officially recognized by the Patna High Court in 1948. It was rebuilt multiple times, including a major reconstruction in 1987 into a grand marble temple. Mahavir Mandir grew in prominence during the 1947 Partition, when a surge of refugees led to its reconstruction.

Architecture:
The temple features three floors:

  • Ground Floor: Home to Lord Hanuman's idols, including one believed to fulfill desires and another to purify evil. It also houses Lord Shiva and a courtyard with shops.
  • First Floor: Displays life-size idols of other gods and goddesses, including Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Shiva. It also contains the Ramsetu Shila, a sacred stone from the Ramayana.
  • Second Floor: Dedicated to religious rituals, it features a Sanskar Mandap for chanting and rituals and illustrations from the Ramayana.

Major Festivals:

  • Ramnavami: Celebrates Lord Rama's birth with over four lakh devotees.
  • Hanuman Jayanti: Devotees gather for energetic prayers and decorations during this festival.

Tips for Visiting:

  • Avoid visiting on Tuesdays and Saturdays due to heavy crowds.
  • Parking may be challenging, so plan accordingly.

How to Reach Mahavir Mandir:

  • By Car/Taxi: The temple is a short distance from Patna Junction and easily accessible by taxi or private car.
  • By Public Transport: Buses and auto-rickshaws connect the temple to all parts of Patna.
  • By Rickshaw: You can hire an auto-rickshaw from nearby locations for a quick ride to the temple.