Maruti Temple

Maruti Temple Vivek Gadre (Atlas Obscura User)

Altinho Hill is at the center of Panaji, where several important buildings and landmarks are located. On the eastern slope of this hill sits a beautiful temple that overlooks Fontainhas, Panaji’s Latin Quarter.

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman the temple is known as the Maruti Temple, as Lord Hanuman is also known as Maruti. The temple can be accessed via a picturesque flight of steps. One of the most fascinating aspects of the city of Panaji is its love for heritage steps.

Across the city, one can find colorfully designed flights of steps connecting winding lanes, disappearing around the corners, or hidden behind trees. The temple can also be accessed using a winding road from Fontainhas.

The temple was constructed between 1931 and 1934 and offers a view of the eastern side of Panaji. The charming old roofs of Fontainhas, the commercial highrises of Patto Plaza, and the Atal Setu bridge in the background can be seen from the temple.

The best time to visit is during the early morning to enjoy the fresh ambiance or during the evening when it is lit up beautifully.

Know Before You Go

As one heads south from Fontainhas towards the neighborhood of Mala, there is an ancient natural freshwater spring called Phoenix Spring.

The steps leading to the temple are located near this spring. There is a large archway from where the steps begin. The winding road which goes past this archway also leads to the temple.