Happy New Year 2018, A day spent at Hanuman Temple, Watsonville, CA

We have entered into a new year, with 2017 giving so much of awesome memories to remember. I hope this years brings more happiness, positive vibes, peace and new adventures. We decided to start the day by visiting the  Sankat Mochan Hanuman temple, this temple is located on the top of a mountain in Watsonville,CA and it is situated in the vicinity of Mount Madonna Center ( another great place to hike).

Apart from spectacular and enchanting natures views, this place is ideal for relaxation,rejuvenation, and meditation.  The whole decorum of the place is very well-maintained,which makes it a must visit place. The drive to the temple is soothing and calming to eyes, definitely worth coming to.

The temple offers tranquility and isolation, deer and peahens can be seen strolling around the place. This surely gives a great sense of satisfaction and brings us closer to the  mother nature. The temple grounds are pretty big, with well-maintained mandir, yoga & conference rooms, bookstore, anjaneyah cafe. There are restrooms in the property as well, one inside the entrance to the bookstore and another one in the mandir itself.

Planning a visit:

An important point to note is if you are planning to visit during weekend or holidays, reservations are required for parking. This can be done conveniently online, ahead of time choose the time-slot and book a parking spot to avoid any hassle. The parking is free, for more information visiton here:  https://temple.mountmadonna.org/visitor-information

Things to do around the Hanuman temple:

If you are planning to spend the day around this area, then give yourself a chance to explore some amazing places around the temple too. While is list is long, here are some of my picks to make your  trip adventurous:

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park:  This is a perfect option if you are visiting with kids under age 10. This theme park is an excellent combination of nature preserve and theme park that comprises more than 75 acres of trees, plants, water and rocks combined with rides, picnic grounds, miniature golf and spectacular gardens.  The petting zoo is attractive and well-kept, there are several goats and other critters. There is a large train that goes around the park, this is the most exciting things among toddler and they can ride the train several times in a day. The place has shops with nice souvenirs and cafeterias.

Price/Tickets:  There are memberships and one-day passes available. The tickets starts from as low as $20. Please visit here to know more: https://www.gilroygardens.org/tickets/daily-tickets

Directions:  3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy CA

Mount Madonna County Park: This is a great place with excellent hiking trails through the redwoods. Hikers and equestrians have access to an extensive 14 mile trail system.

Directions:  The park is located on Highway 152 (Hecker Pass Highway), 10 miles west of Gilroy. From the east, use Highway 101, and take the Highway 152 West exit. From the west, use Highway 1, and take the Highway 152 East exit. The entrance to the park is located at the summit of Highway 152 at Pole Line Road.

Hours and Fees
The park is open year-round from 8 a.m. until sunset. All non-campers must leave the park 30 minutes after sunset. Vehicle entry fees are collected year-round. Fees are required for camping, and for use of group picnic and group camping areas. Fees are posted at the kiosk and at the ranger station

Santa Cruz Main Beach:  This is another great spot and must place to see, if you are in for a awesome beach life, with activities and great food, this is place you should visit. This popular beach, with killer waves, is known as one of the top surfing spots in the world. The beach offer lifeguards in summer and portions available to rent for casual weddings.

Directions: Beach Street,  Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Parking: Paid

If you are bay area resident or someone visiting then definitely take out a day to explore such exquisite options and deep dive into the world of nature.  Trials and hikes is an ideal way to experience some adventure, while for relaxing spend the day getting some tan  on the beach or mediate into the world of calmness (at the temple).

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!