Panaji, the capital city of Goa, is a favourite destination for many visitors. Situated along the banks of the Mandovi River, this beautiful city has always attracted tourists. Mala is a small locality within Panaji, situated at the foothills of Altinho Hill. The locality is particularly famous among tourists for its beautiful Goan-Portuguese-style houses in Fontainhas, which add to its old-world charm.
However, one of the most attractive landmarks that enhances the beauty of Mala is the Marutirai Sansthan, popularly known as Maruti Temple or Marutigad. It is one of the most beautiful temples in Panaji and among the many architecturally fascinating temples in Goa.
Maruti Temple on Altinho Hill – A Beautiful Landmark of Panaji
Situated on Altinho Hill, the temple is visible even from the Atal Setu while entering Panaji. Its magnificent architecture and attractive decorative lighting at night draw attention even from a distance.
The Shri Marutirai Sansthan stands in an exceptionally beautiful location that leaves visitors mesmerised. A small temple was initially constructed at this picturesque site in 1934. On 23rd January 1934 (Magha Shukla Dashami), a full-sized marble stone idol of Lord Maruti (Hanuman) was ceremoniously installed.
Initially, there was only a narrow pathway leading from the foothills of Mala to the temple. Gradually, steps were constructed to make the approach easier for devotees.
History of Maruti Temple, Panaji
During the renovation of Shri Marutirai Temple in 1974–75, a grand assembly hall (Sabhamandap) was constructed. A beautiful and artistically designed entrance gateway was also built at the foothills of the temple.
The modern redisigned work of the temple took place between 1980 and the 1990s.
Today, the temple has become a place of deep faith for countless devotees and an important tourist attraction in Panaji.
The entire surroundings are equally captivating. The hill is covered with lush green vegetation, while a natural spring flows at its foothills. The beautiful houses and the charming locality of Mala add to the scenic appeal of this place.
How to Reach Maruti Temple – Steps and Road Access
The temple is located around 3 km from the Kadamba Bus Stand in Panaji.
There are approximately 100 steps leading up to the temple from the foothills. Visitors who do not wish to climb the steps can also reach the temple directly by vehicle through Mala or Altinho.
Maruti Temple Architecture – A Unique Blend of Art and Design
Shri Maruti Sansthan is an excellent example of beautiful temple architecture. Its distinctive architectural design is one of its most fascinating attractions.
The temple is designed in the shape of a chariot with two wheels. Its prominent reddish-orange colour, complemented by the lush green surroundings, creates a striking and unforgettable visual impression.
The beautifully designed interiors and intricate carvings
In front of the temple stands a beautiful octagonal Deepstambha (traditional oil lamp pillar).
As soon as one enters the temple, before climbing the main steps leading to the inner shrine, one can first have darshan of a small yet beautifully carved black stone idol of Maruti, placed for offering oil.
Behind this idol, a square-shaped opening has been provided in the wall, through which devotees can have a glimpse of the main idol inside the temple.
The intricate woodwork inside the temple is particularly beautiful and deserves admiration. The balconies along three sides of the mukhamandap feature finely carved idols of the Ashta Lokapalas (the eight guardians of the directions).
Above the sanctum are beautiful idols of Lord Rama, Lakshmana and Sita, with Rambhakta Hanuman in front of them with folded hands.
On one side of these idols is a beautifully carved figure of Maruti seated in a meditative posture, while on the other side is an intricately carved Panchamukhi Hanuman (five-faced Hanuman).
The mukhamandap itself is aesthetically designed. Raised platforms on either side provide seating arrangements for devotees. The beautiful, spacious windows add to the overall appearance of the temple.
On the left side, there is a glass enclosure displaying a palanquin, along with two photographs depicting the old and the new temple.
Panoramic Views of Panaji from Maruti Temple
As one steps outside the temple, a magnificent view of the eastern part of Panaji unfolds before the eyes.
From the beautiful parapet constructed in front of the temple, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the settlement at the foothills, Atal Setu, the Patto area and Bambolim in the distance.
The panoramic view of Panaji from this hilltop temple is truly delightful and makes a visit even more memorable.
Maruti Temple Festival and Annual Jatra in Panaji
The annual Jatra Utsav of Marutirai Sansthan, Marutigad, is very famous. The festival is generally held every year in February.
On this occasion, special Maha Puja and Maha Aarti are performed in honour of Lord Maruti. A grand procession carrying the palanquin of Lord Maruti is also taken through the Mala locality.
During the Jatra, the streets of Mala are lined with stalls selling various articles, toys and delicious food items.
Devotees from Mala, Panaji and other parts of Goa gather in large numbers to seek the blessings of Lord Maruti and enjoy the festive celebrations.
Maruti Temple Panaji Timings and Visiting Information
This exceptionally beautiful temple is worth visiting again and again. The darshan timings of Shri Maruti Rai Sansthan are as follows:
|
Day |
Temple Timings |
|---|---|
|
Every Saturday |
6:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
|
Other days – Morning |
7:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
|
Other days – Evening |
4:00 PM to 8:30 PM |
