Galtaji is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage about 10 km away from Jaipur, in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The site consists of a series of temples built into a narrow crevice in the ring of hills that surrounds Jaipur. A natural spring emerges high on the hill and flows downward, filling a series of sacred kunds (water tanks) in which pilgrims bathe. Visitors and pilgrims can ascend the crevasse, continuing past the highest water pool to a hilltop temple from there are views of Jaipur and its fortifications spreads out across the valley floor. It is believed that a Saint named Galav lived here, practiced meditation, and did penance (tpasya).
Located amidst stark surroundings, the shrine of Galta, also known as 'the Monkey Temple', cuts a spectacular spectacle. Perched on the crown of a mount, the temple, is located at close quarters from the beautiful Sisodia Rani-ka Bagh. It is said that the hallowed portals of the temple played host to the penance rituals of God man Galava. This shrine also used to register huge footfalls from the devotees of Lord Krishna, belonging to the religious order of Ramanand.
Visitors from all across the world troop to the sacred precincts of the temple devoted to the Sun deity. The brainchild of Diwan Kriparam, an attendant to Sawai Jai Singh, the Second. A trip to the temple of the Sun God, is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. The eastern portion of its holy precincts comprises interesting architecture.
Consisting of three water bodies, drawing their regular source of water from the gaumukh, these are star attractions of the temple. This was built in keeping with the social norms of the times, an age when separate bathing ghats were designated for men folk and women folk. The lowermost water body is devoted to Lord Hanuman.
Etched in pink hued sandstone, the sacred temple bears testimony to wonderful artistry. Scenes from the life of the royalty and the mischief of Lord Krishna abound the temple etchings.
Ardent devotees flock to the Galta Temple during the occasion of Makar Sankranti to smear themselves with the holy waters of 'kunds'.
History of Galtaji Temple
Saint Galva who made his penance for about 60,000 years in Satyuga and according to the ancient belief he brought the sacred Gangaji to Shri Galtaji which comes out of the Gau-mukh. Diwan Rao Kriparam, an attendant to Sawai Jai Singh II, in the 18th Century, built the Galtaji Temple.
