Galtaji is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage in the Indian state of Rajasthan, about 10 km from Jaipur. The site consists of a series of temples built in the ring of hills surrounding Jaipur in a narrow crevice. A natural spring emerges high on the hill and flows downward, filling a series of holy kunds where pilgrims bathe. Visitors and pilgrims can ascend the crevasse, continue past the highest water pool to a hilltop temple from where there are views of Jaipur and its fortifications spread over the valley floor. A Saint named Galav is believed to have lived here, practised meditation, and did penance (Tapasya).

Overview

Galtaji Temple is a prehistoric Hindu pilgrimage site, located on the outskirts of the royal city of Jaipur. It is composed of several shrines, holy kunds, pavilions and natural springs, outlined by the striking Aravalli hills. This majestic temple is located in the heart of a hilly terrain bounded by a beautiful gorge that attracts visitors here every year. Galtaji Temple was built with pink sandstone colour and is a vast temple complex that houses varied shrines. The walls of this temple, inside the City Palace, are beautifully decorated with carvings and paintings that make this place worth visiting. The temple of Galtaji is unique in its architecture and was built like a palace.

It is located in the hills of Aravalli and is bordered by thick plum trees and bushes. This remarkable building has painted walls, round roofs, and pillars to decorate it. Apart from the kunds, there are temples of Lord Ram, Lord Krishna and Lord Hanuman within the temple in this pre-historic Hindu pilgrimage place too. One of Jaipur’s main tourist destinations, the temple complex boasts natural freshwater springs and seven sacred ‘kunds’ or water tanks. The ‘Galta Kund’ is the holiest of these kunds and is believed never to get dry. From the ‘Gaumukh,’ a rock formed like the head of a cow, pure and clear water flows into the tanks.

This spectacular temple looks more like a grand palace or haveli than a traditional temple. The Galta Monkey Temple has a beautiful scenic landscape with rich green vegetation and a spectacular view of Jaipur town. This temple is known for the many monk tribes found here, as well as for the religious hymns and chants and the natural setting.

History

The magnificent pink sandstone structure is said to have been built by Diwan Rao Kriparam who was a Sawai Jai Singh II courtier. Galtaji has been a haven for the puritans belonging to the Ramanadi sect and under the occupation of the Jogis since the early 16th century. Saint Galtav is believed to have spent this whole life at this sacred site, performing Tapasya for hundred years. The gods appeared before him pleased with his devotion and blessed his place of worship with abundant water. The Galtaji Temple was built here to venerate this rishi, and named after him. Legend has it that Tulsidas wrote sections of the Holy Ramcharitra Manas at this spot. Galav has been meditating here for many decades and has been blessed with springs. This is also the reason why the temple complex takes its name from the sage. Legend has it that Tulsidas wrote sections of the Holy Ramcharitra Manas at this spot. Galav has been meditating here for many decades and has been blessed with springs. This is also the reason why the temple complex takes its name from the sage.

Best time to visit

February-March months and October-December time are the best time to visit this place, as the weather is pleasant during that time. In summers it can get pretty hot and uncomfortable and, therefore, these are best, avoided. During the Makar Sankranti festival in January, the Galtaji Temple is thronged with tourists and pilgrims to take a dip in the kund ‘s holy waters. If you want to witness the fascinating scene of the monkeys flocking towards the temple tank for a bath, it is best to visit the temple during the evening.

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How to Reach

Galtaji Temple is located in the town of Khania-Balaji, about 10 km to the east of Jaipur.

By Air

Galtaji Temple’s nearest airport is Sanganer Airport, Jaipur 10 km from Galtaji Temple. You can hire a cab to get to the temple from here.

By Rail

Galtaji Temple’s nearest railway station is Bais Godam Railway Station Junction, 1 km from Galtaji Temple. From here you can take a taxi or auto to get to the temple.

By Road

Both deluxe and state busses are available to Jaipur from various towns. From Jaipur, as the Galtaji Temple is located 10 kilometres outside Jaipur City, booking a private taxi is the best way to get from Jaipur to the Temple. You can opt for a tuk-tuk, too.

Things to see nearby

Galtaji Temple is a specimen of Rajasthan’s former royal life, with amazing architecture that fascinates you. The sightseeing spots at the temple are Galwar Bagh Gate, a beautiful pink structure that is suitable for the vast interior complex, while Galta Temple is the main temple in the complex. Also worth a visit is Hanuman Temple, not only for its architecture but also for the many monkeys that can be found here. The Temple of Brahma, the Temple of Vishnu and the Kund of Galta is eye-catching and should be visited.

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Outside the temple, there are countless monuments, Havelis, forts and palaces in Jaipur to keep you busy and to be visited while you are here. These include the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Fort Nahargarh, Fort Jaigarh, Fort Amber, Rani Garden Sisodia, Mahal Hawa, Mahal Jal, Mandir Birla, and Albert Hall.

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