Nestled quietly in the serene village of Dabhoda, just a short drive from Gandhinagar, lies one of Gujarat’s most spiritually powerful and culturally rich destinations — Dabhoda Hanuman Temple, also known as Dabhodiya Hanumanji Mandir. Known for its mystical origins, large festivals, and deep-rooted faith among devotees, the temple has become a must-visit spot for anyone seeking inner strength, protection, and spiritual peace.
Today, as crowds return in large numbers on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the ancient temple continues to narrate centuries-old stories of devotion, miracles, and cultural heritage.
A Temple Born From a Miracle: The Ancient Legend
According to local folklore, the temple’s history goes back nearly 1,000 years — making it one of the oldest Hanuman temples in the region. The story begins in the dense forests near the ancient kingdom of Patan.
It is said that a king once took refuge in this forest when invaders attacked his kingdom. During this time, a local cow mysteriously began offering her milk at a particular spot every single day. Surprised by this unusual behaviour, the king ordered the ground to be dug.
What they discovered beneath the earth was astonishing — a self-manifested (Swayambhu) idol of Lord Hanuman.
Feeling divine blessings at the site, the king decided to build a temple there. Over time, homes grew around it, and the area eventually came to be known as Dabhoda. The idol remains the heart of the temple even today, worshipped with immense devotion.
Why Devotees Flock Here: Spiritual Power & Faith
Dabhoda Hanuman Temple is believed to have strong spiritual vibrations. Many devotees visit for:
- Relief from negative energies
- Protection from obstacles
- Strength and courage
- Fulfilment of wishes
- Mental peace and positivity
Tuesdays and Saturdays are particularly crowded, as these days are considered especially sacred for Hanuman worship.
On many weeks, people line up even before sunrise to attend the Mangla Aarti and seek blessings.
The Divine Experience Inside the Temple
The temple architecture is simple yet spiritually intense. The peaceful ambience, the sound of bells, and the fragrance of incense create a serene environment.
Visitors often spend a few moments meditating near the idol, while many offer oil, coconuts, and prasad as part of traditional rituals. One of the unique customs here is the oil abhishek, a sacred practice symbolizing devotion and the removal of negative energies.
Festivals: When Dabhoda Comes Alive
The temple becomes truly vibrant during festivals, especially:
Hanuman Jayanti
Crowds in the thousands gather on this day. The temple trust organizes:
- Massive oil-abhishek ceremonies
- Grand aartis
- Bhajan programs
- Special darshan arrangements
In recent years, drone shots of the temple during these celebrations have gone viral, showcasing the beauty and devotion of the festival.
Annakut Darshan
During Annakut, devotees offer numerous varieties of food to Hanumanji as gratitude. The entire temple lights up with spiritual energy.
Temple Timings
Darshan Timings:
- Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Aarti Timings:
- Mangla Aarti: Around 5:30 AM
- Sandhya Aarti: Evening, around sunset
(These timings may vary slightly during festivals or special events.)
Location & How to Reach
Dabhoda Hanuman Temple is located in Dabhoda village, Gandhinagar district, Gujarat.
- From Gandhinagar: approx. 16 km
- From Ahmedabad: approx. 30–35 km
Visitors can reach via:
- Private car
- Auto or taxi
- State transport bus routes towards Dabhoda / Mansa region
The temple is easily accessible, with well-connected roads and clear navigation on Google Maps.
Nearby Places Worth Visiting
While visiting the temple, travelers also explore:
- Akshardham, Gandhinagar
- Sarita Udyan
- Indroda Nature Park
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Gandhinagar City landmarks
This makes Dabhoda an ideal spiritual stop within a peaceful travel circuit.
What Makes Dabhoda Hanuman Temple Truly Special
- Its roots in an ancient miracle
- The presence of the self-manifested Hanuman idol
- Centuries of uninterrupted devotion
- A powerful spiritual atmosphere
- Vibrant celebrations that unite thousands
- Easy accessibility from two major cities
The temple is not just a religious site — it is a place of faith, healing, culture, and divine heritage.
Whether you visit to pray, meditate, or simply admire the history, Dabhoda Hanuman Temple leaves everyone with a deep sense of peace and spiritual strength.
