Moti Dungri Temple

The Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple was constructed by Seth Jai Ram Paliwal in the early eighteenth century, and continues to be one the most popular tourist destinations in Jaipur. Situated in the heart of Jaipur, the Moti Dungri temple is perched on a small hill, and is surrounded by an exotic palace. In the recent past, the palace was home to Rajmata Gaytri Devi, but now, the palace is locked to public, with the temple being the only tourist location. The highlight of this place is the famous and auspicious temple of Lord Ganesha, which is frequently visited by the inhabitants of Jaipur, and other tourists from around the world. In modern times, it is said that thousands of devotees flock the temple on a daily basis and it is considered to be one of the most important religious structures in Jaipur. The temple is nestled by the beautiful palace, called the Moti Dungri palace, which is an imitation of a popular Scottish castle.

History of Moti Doongri temple
Legend has it that way back in the 17th century when the King of Mewar was returning home, he was carrying an idol of Lord Ganesha with him on a bullock cart. He declared that wherever the bullock cart first stopped, he would build a temple for the lord. The cart stopped at the foothill of Moti Doongri which became the site for the temple. Construction of the temple was entrusted to Seth Jairam Paliwal and Mahant Shiv Narain who built this temple in four years and it was completed in 1761. A complex resembling a Scottish castle was built at the site for Maharaja Madho Singh’s son and the temple was housed within it. The surrounding palace is not open for visitors as it is a private property but the temple is open for one and all. This temple got its name Moti Doongri as it is built at the bottom of Moti Doongri hill. Moti translated in English means a pearl while Doongri means a small hill in the local language.

Layout Of The Temple
The temple is surrounded by the beautiful Moti Dungri palace, which is an imitation of a Scottish castle. The temple itself spans 2 kilometers and is carved out of stone. Apart from the intricate stone carving, the temple is known for its exquisite lattice work on marble with mythological images engraved on the marble, which offer a splendid view for art-lovers. The idol of Lord Ganesh is located in the heart of the temple, and is hidden from view. Only at certain timings in a day are visitors allowed to have a glimpse of the feted idol.