Enveloped amid the picturesque Aravalli hills in Jaipur, Galtaji Temple stands as a serene oasis of tranquillity and serenity. It is popularly known as the Monkey Temple due to the presence of a considerable troop of monkeys. This sacred site holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors. Being a highly religious pilgrimage attraction with great historical significance, the Galtaji Temple complex is a cluster of several shrines. The temples are built within a narrow aperture of a mountain pass in the Aravalli hills.
Important Temple Visit Information
This article will delve into the rich history, architectural splendour, and surrounding attractions that make it a must-visit place in the Jaipur tour package.
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Location: Shri Galta Peetham, Galva Ashrama, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302013, India
Entry Timing: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Main Highlights of Galtaji Temple
Notorious Monkeys: There’s a massive population of monkeys at Galta ji, so the temple is often called the Monkey Temple or Galwar Bagh.
Makar Sankranti and Kartik Poornima Rituals: Most pilgrims or visitors flock here to experience the festivities. It is when the devotees take a dip in the sacred kunds.
Hike up to the Ancient Temple: There’s a trail to Galtaji from the city’s western tip, starting at the end of Suraj Pol Bazaar Road. This is about 30 to 45 minutes of hike.
Sunset from the Sun Temple: The vantage point of the temple offers mesmerizing views of the sunset.
Galwar Bagh Gate and others: The Galwar Bagh Gate is the main gate to the temple and is a massive structure in pink that houses all the temples inside the complex.
History of Galtaji Temple
Galtaji Temple has a glorious past that dates back to the 16th Century. According to the legends, the temple was established by the saint Galav, who performed intense penance at the site. Over the centuries, many rulers have expanded and renovated the temple complex, including the Kachhwaha Rajput Kings of Jaipur, who contributed to its architectural grandeur.
Architecture of Galtaji Temple
The brilliant architecture of the temple is typically a blend of classical Indian and Rajasthani elements. There are beautiful frescoes to Indian mythology paintings with canopies or the curvilinear chhatris adorning the roofs of the temples. The windows are well-designed in the typical Rajasthani style of architecture.
The temple is built of pink sandstone, with pavilions, intricately carved pillars, and painted ceilings and walls. Besides all the temples in the complex, Shri Gyan Gopalji Temple & Shri Sitaram ji Temples are constructed in haveli style. The Shri Sitaram Ji Temple is the biggest one among all the temples at Galtaji. People believe that the Shri Ram Gopal ji idol at the Sitaram ji Temple looks like Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. The legend behind the idol is like Lord Ram and Lord Krishna, which earlier appeared to be Tulsidas in the form of Lord Ram, and Tulsidas described what he saw.
The Hanuman temple in the complex is known for its Akhand Jyoti (the eternal lamp), the flame of which has been burning for centuries. Many people find a belief a little out of the horizon of belief, but some still believe in such legends.
The Shri Gyan Gopal ji Temple compound houses a school for students and disciples. There’s a pretty idol of Lord Krishna within the temple. There are several small temples inside the Galtji complex.
Places to visit near Galtaji Temple
Krishna Temple: Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple is located near the Galtaji complex and is revered by devotees who flock to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Surya Temple: Also known as the Sun Temple, the ancient shrine is dedicated to the Hindu deity Surya and is renowned for its architectural beauty.
Balaji Temple: Located atop a hill near Galtaji, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Balaji and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Sitaram ji Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita and is a pilgrimage site for devotees looking for spiritual solace and blessings.
Sisodia Rani ka Bagh: Around a short distance from Galtaji Temple, this picturesque garden was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II for his queen. It features stunning Mughal-style architecture, parks, and cascading fountains.
Final Thoughts
Galtaji Temple in Jaipur is not just a place of worship; it’s a spiritual haven steeped in history, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you seek peace in the serenity of its surroundings, or marvelling at the architectural splendour, a visit to the temple promises a genuinely enriching experience. Immerse yourself in the divine bliss of this sacred place and discover the timeless charm of Jaipur’s spiritual heritage.