Salasar Balaji is one of Rajasthan's most visited Hanuman temples. About 73 km north on the same highway, SH-7, is Shree Ichhapuran Balaji Mandir in Sardarshahar. Many families do both in one trip. Here is how to plan it.
- Salasar to Sardarshahar
- About 73 km, roughly 1¼ hours by car
- Road
- SH-7 via Ratangarh, the same highway the whole way
- Salasar Balaji
- Two big fairs a year, in Chaitra (Mar–Apr) and Ashwin (Sep–Oct)
- Ichhapuran Balaji
- Usually open about 6 am to 9 pm; busiest on Tuesdays and Saturdays
- Best season
- October to March, when days are pleasant
- SalasarStart
- Ratangarh
- Sardarshahar≈ 73 kmIchhapuran Balaji
Salasar Balaji: the story
The local story says a farmer's plough struck an idol of Balaji in the field at Asota village, on a Tuesday in the month of Shravan. His wife offered the bajra churma she had brought for his lunch, and churma is still offered at Salasar today. That same night a devotee named Mohandas was told in a dream to bring the idol to Salasar, where the temple stands now.
The temple holds two large fairs every year, in Chaitra and Ashwin. Expect very heavy crowds then. Book rooms well ahead if you are travelling in those weeks.
Ichhapuran Balaji, Sardarshahar
Ichhapuran Balaji Mandir in Sardarshahar is newer. It was established by the Malu family and inaugurated on 13 February 2005. It is built in the South Indian (Dravidian) style, rare in this region, and has a large seated Hanuman idol in a blessing pose. The name means 'fulfiller of wishes'.
A simple two-day plan
- Day 1, morning: darshan at Salasar Balaji. Reach early on fair days.
- Day 1, afternoon: drive north on SH-7 through Ratangarh to Sardarshahar (about 1¼ hours). Check in and rest through the hottest hours.
- Day 1, evening: evening darshan at Ichhapuran Balaji Mandir, about 400 m from Jay Mahal Hotel & Resort.
- Day 2, morning: an early darshan if you like, then the drive home.
Tips for families
- Tuesdays, Saturdays and Hanuman Jayanti are the busiest days at both temples.
- From April to June, plan darshan for early morning or after sunset.
- Carry water and keep footwear at the shoe stands outside each temple.
- Travelling in a large group? Call the hotel ahead so rooms and meals are ready on arrival.
Distances, travel times and timings are approximate and can change. Please check before you travel.
Also see: Hotel near Ichhapuran Balaji Mandir
Frequently asked questions
How far is Ichhapuran Balaji (Sardarshahar) from Salasar Balaji?
About 73 km along SH-7 via Ratangarh, roughly 1¼ hours by car.
Can we do both temples in one day?
Yes, the drive is short. Most families prefer to stay one night in Sardarshahar so they can attend darshan without rushing, especially in summer.
When are the Salasar Balaji fairs?
Two big fairs are held every year, in Chaitra (March–April) and Ashwin (September–October). Exact dates follow the Hindu calendar.
Where can we stay near Ichhapuran Balaji Mandir?
Jay Mahal Hotel & Resort is about 400 m from the temple on the Ganganagar–Jaipur Highway, with rooms, an AC restaurant and parking. Call +91 78919 99993.
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