Located in the heart of Chennai’s bustling George Town, the Gali Anjaneya Temple (also known as Mandai Anjaneyar Temple) is one of the city’s most revered Hanuman shrines. This ancient temple, believed to be over 400 years old, is famous for its powerful self-manifested (Swayambhu) Hanuman idol that stands majestically facing the east. The temple derives its name “Gali” (meaning wind) from the legend that Hanuman appeared here during a massive storm.
✔ Detailed daily & festival timings
✔ Historical significance & temple architecture
✔ Daily rituals & special poojas
✔ Major festivals in 2025 calendar
✔ Complete travel guide
✔ Comprehensive FAQ section (25+ questions)
Gali Anjaneya Temple Timings 2025
Regular Daily Schedule
| Time | Ritual |
|---|---|
| 5:00 AM | Temple Opening |
| 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM | Suprabhatham |
| 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM | Viswaroopa Darshan |
| 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Morning Darshan |
| 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Temple Closure |
| 4:00 PM | Temple Reopening |
| 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Evening Darshan |
| 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Deeparadhana |
| 8:30 PM | Temple Closing |
Special Days Schedule
- Tuesdays & Saturdays: Extended hours till 9:30 PM
- Hanuman Jayanti (April 12, 2025): 24-hour darshan
- New Moon Days (Amavasya): Special abhishekams at 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM
Historical Significance & Temple Features
Ancient Legends
- Believed established by Saint Vyasaraja in 16th century
- Idol grew in size miraculously during installation
- Protected area during 1640 Chennai cyclone
Architectural Highlights
- Dravidian-style rajagopuram (recently renovated)
- 6-foot tall Swayambhu Hanuman idol in unique posture
- Special shrine for Panchamukha Hanuman
- 1000-pillared mandapam with Ramayana carvings
Unique Features
- Only temple where Hanuman faces east (typically faces south)
- Natural vibhuti forms on idol
- Underground water channel beneath sanctum
Daily Rituals & Pooja Schedule
| Time | Ritual | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 5:00 AM | Suprabhatham | Waking the deity |
| 5:30 AM | Viswaroopa Darshan | Special early viewing |
| 6:00 AM | Sahasranama Archana | 1000-name worship |
| 7:30 AM | Abhishekam | Milk, honey bath |
| 12:00 PM | Naivedyam | Main food offering |
| 6:30 PM | Deeparadhana | Evening lamps |
| 8:00 PM | Ekantha Seva | Night rituals |
Special Poojas:
- Sankatahara Chaturthi: Monthly special pooja
- Hanuman Jayanti: 108 coconut breaking ritual
- Saturday Rahu Kalam Pooja: For planetary relief
Major Festivals 2025
| Festival | Date | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Hanuman Jayanti | Apr 12 | 24-hour poojas, special abhishekam |
| Rama Navami | Apr 6 | Kalyanotsavam of Rama-Sita |
| Vijayadashami | Oct 3 | Panchamukha Hanuman procession |
| New Moon Days | Monthly | Special homams |
| Margazhi Festival | Dec 15-Jan 13 | Daily recitation of Sundara Kandam |
Travel Guide
How to Reach
- By Metro: Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Metro Station (500m)
- By Train: Chennai Central (1km)
- By Road: Easily accessible from all parts of Chennai
Parking Facilities
- Two-wheeler parking: Free on nearby streets
- Car parking: Paid parking at NSC Bose Road (₹30/hour)
Nearby Attractions
- Chennai High Court (300m)
- Parry’s Corner (200m)
- Fort St. George (1km)
Accommodation Options
- Budget (₹500-1000): Temple choultry, lodges near Broadway
- Mid-range (₹1500-3000): Hotels in Parry’s Corner
- Luxury (₹5000+): ITC Grand Chola (5km away)
Detailed FAQ Section (25+ Questions)
Q1: What are today’s temple timings?
A: 5:00 AM-12:00 PM & 4:00 PM-8:30 PM (regular days)
Q2: Is there any online booking for poojas?
A: Yes, through temple website (www.galianjaneyar.com)
Q3: What is special about Tuesday worship?
A: Special 11-coconut breaking ritual at 7:00 AM
Q4: Are there facilities for senior citizens?
A: Yes, priority queue and seating area
Q5: What is the dress code?
A: Traditional wear preferred (men: dhoti/shirt; women: saree/salwar)
Q6: How much time needed for darshan?
A: 30-60 minutes (2+ hours on weekends)
Q7: Is photography allowed?
A: Only in outer areas (not near main idol)
Q8: What is the best time to avoid crowds?
A: Weekday mornings 6:00-8:00 AM
Q9: Are mobile phones allowed?
A: Yes, but must be silent inside sanctum
Q10: Why is the idol facing east?
A: Legend says Hanuman appeared facing the rising sun
Q11: Is there wheelchair access?
A: Partial access (up to main mandapam)
Q12: What are the prasadam timings?
A: 12:30 PM & 7:30 PM daily
Q13: Can non-Hindus visit?
A: Yes, all are welcome
Q14: Is there any medical facility?
A: First aid available at temple office
Q15: What makes this idol special?
A: Self-manifested and growing in size
Q16: Are guides available?
A: Yes, temple volunteers provide free guidance
Q17: What is the parking fee?
A: ₹20 for bikes, ₹50 for cars at nearby lots
Q18: Can we perform special abhishekam?
A: Yes, book in advance (₹501 minimum)
Q19: Is there night stay facility?
A: No, except during Hanuman Jayanti
Q20: What is the significance of vibhuti?
A: Considered highly sacred with healing properties
Q21: Are there food options nearby?
A: Many vegetarian restaurants in Parry’s Corner
Q22: What is the nearest metro station?
A: Central Metro (5 minute walk)
Q23: Can we bring children?
A: Yes, special children’s queue available
Q24: Is there ATM facility?
A: Yes, several within 200m radius
Q25: What is the best festival to visit?
A: Hanuman Jayanti (April 12, 2025)
Conclusion
The Gali Anjaneya Temple stands as a powerful spiritual beacon in Chennai’s urban landscape, offering devotees a unique combination of ancient traditions and vibrant energy. With its miraculous self-manifested idol, rich history dating back centuries, and convenient city-center location, it provides both a profound religious experience and a glimpse into Chennai’s cultural heritage. The detailed 2025 timings and festival information provided in this guide will help pilgrims plan their visit for optimal darshan opportunities. Whether you seek divine blessings, wish to admire the temple’s architectural beauty, or want to experience Chennai’s living traditions, Gali Anjaneya Temple promises an unforgettable spiritual journey. May Lord Hanuman bless all visitors with strength, courage, and protection!