MONKEY TEMPLE JAIPUR – A RELIABLE GUIDE

February 1, 2022
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Monkey Temple, otherwise known as Galta Ji Temple, is a popular tourist attraction in the city of Jaipur. While the official name is Galta Ji, most refer to it as Monkey Temple, due to the thousands of monkeys that occupy the grounds. As well as being a tourist hotspot, the temple complex is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees.

Set amid the rocky mountains East of the city, the temple complex is unlike any we’d seen throughout our time in India. A significant feature being the natural springs that channel into the temples 7 holy baths. Here you will find pilgrims bathing in the sacred water, believed to cleanse away sins and revitalise the body. We would consider the Monkey Temple to be one of the best places to visit in Jaipur, as mentioned in our 2 Day Jaipur Itinerary.

In this guide, we advise everything you need to know ahead of visiting Monkey Temple Jaipur. Including entrance fees, opening hours, what to expect & more.

Monkey Temple Jaipur Guide

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How to get to Monkey Temple in Jaipur

Jaipur is an essential addition to any India itinerary. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and forms a part of the Golden Triangle Route. You can conveniently reach Jaipur via bus, train, or plane from all over the country.

Located 10KM outside of the city centre, the easiest way to get to Monkey Temple is by using public transportation. Taxis, tuk-tuks, and buses are easy to come by in Jaipur. You can check the city of Jaipur website for more information on bus routes in Jaipur.

Our favourite way to get around Jaipur is by using the Ola Taxi app. Similar to Uber, taxis are ordered directly through the app. Not only can you book single trips, but it’s an affordable way to hire a driver for the entire day!

Finally, there is said to be a secret hike that leads you to Monkey Temple. While we can’t speak from experience, from what I’ve heard, it’s a beautiful walk!

Galta Ji Monkey Temple in Jaipur

Monkey Temple Jaipur Opening Hours

The Monkey Temple is open to visitors from 5 am – 6 pm 7 days a week.

Monkey Temple Jaipur Entrance Fees

Entrance Fee: Free.

Donations: Welcomed

Cameras: Rs. 50

Things to Know Before Visiting

Here is all the information you’ll need ahead of visiting Monkey Temple in Jaipur.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of year to visit the Jaipur attractions is from October-February when the weather is dry but not too hot. Although, with Rajasthan bordering the Thar desert, the midday heat can be overwhelming at any time of year. With this in mind, we recommend sightseeing in Jaipur in the mornings or late afternoons.

In regards to visiting Monkey Temple, there is really no right or wrong time. To experience the complex at it’s most peaceful, I would suggest visiting first thing in the morning. Alternatively, many combine their visit with a trip to the nearby Sun Temple for Sunset. Otherwise, you can visit at any time of day to witness the spiritual ceremonies unfold.

Time Required

To explore the temple complex, I would allow 3-4 hours out of your day, including travel time from the city.

Photography

The Monkey Temple in Jaipur is a photographers dream; however, here are some things to consider before you visit.

It is forbidden to use tripods throughout most tourist attractions in Jaipur. Expect to be reprimanded by guards if you are caught using one.
It is considered disrespectful to take photos of the locals bathing in the holy baths.
Skilled pickpockets are operating in Jaipur. We recommend this super convenient photographers bag to keep your equipment safe at all times: K&F Concept Lightweight DSLR Camera Backpack

Beware of Feeding the Monkeys

It is a tradition to feed the monkeys when visiting Galta Ji Temple. Especially among Hindu devotees who believe it earns good Karma. If you have your heart set on feeding them, you can buy nuts or bananas around the complex. However, while I agree it is tempting, I would do so with caution. The monkeys may look cute, but we’ve seen them charge at people who are carrying food. It isn’t pleasant, and I suggest avoiding it altogether.

Our Experience at Monkey Temple Jaipur

Visiting the Monkey Temple was always a priority when planning our 2-Day Jaipur Itinerary. Although we had seen some incredible temples throughout our time in India, none seemed quite as compelling as the temple in the mountains.

While we would have liked to have visited Galta Ji for sunrise, we had a busy day scheduled and didn’t arrive until around lunchtime. As expected, the complex was hoarding with tourists and locals by this time. Nevertheless, the captivating scene of the mysterious temple instantly blew us away. From the parking area, you look up to see the layered temple complex nestled into the rocky outcrop. Combine this with the colony of monkeys, and it feels like a scene from a movie.

As we approached the temple entrance, a plethora of colour created by countless beautiful saris dominated the grounds. The sound of prayer echoed through the speakers, while playful monkeys caused havoc to any tourists brave enough to feed them. You will experience many bizarre encounters in India, but the Monkey Temple is truly unique.

There is no ticket booth as you enter the temple; however, it wasn’t long before a Sadhu approached us requesting payment for our camera. We paid Rs. 50 to use just one camera and slipped our phones into our bags. Just be warned they will try to charge you per device if you have them on show. I would also suggest getting a receipt should you get approached again by another Sadhu. This is a common scam, and trust me when I say you don’t want to end up in an argument with these guys!

A Sacred Place in Jaipur

As you make your way through the complex, you will encounter a series of temple buildings. Some of which wholly abandoned and others partially restored. Devotees flood in and out of the temples to pray before heading to the holy pools to bathe. These “kunds” or water tanks are considered to be highly sacred, and the cleanse is a ritual taken seriously. With this in mind, I would avoid taking pictures. We saw many tourists attempting to take photos and being instantly reprimanded by guards.

We continued through several levels of the complex, and the higher you climb, the more peaceful it becomes. This was our favourite part of the experience as we could look down on the magnificent landscapes and religious ceremonies and take it all in. I know I’ve said it before, but it really is an extraordinary place.

The higher level holy baths were largely empty, and here we found monkeys drinking and playing around in the water. There is no denying how cute they are; however, their aggressive reputation always reminds us to admire from a distance.

If you continue to hike up into the mountains, you’ll eventually exit the temple grounds and onto a dirt road. We now know that this road leads up to the Sun Temple, said to be one of the best sunset spots in Jaipur. Unfortunately, we only found out about this place after our visit; however, I recommend checking it out. Even if you’re not around for sunset, the views of the city look spectacular.

In conclusion, a visit to Monkey Temple in Jaipur is a perfect half-day excursion from the city.

Where to Stay in Jaipur

Hostel – Hostel Lumb’s Nest – For affordable, clean & comfortable dorms or private rooms, we can personally recommend Hostel Lumbs Nest. They are located outside of the city, which may not be convenient if you are only in Jaipur for a short time; however, for longer stays it’s perfect to escape the hustle and bustle.

Budget Private – Blue King – If you are on a budget and wish to be a bit closer to the city attractions, perhaps Blue King would be more suitable. Located in the heart of the Pink City you can enjoy the view from the hotel rooftop.

Luxury – Umaid Bhawan – If you are looking to spend a bit more on accommodation, Umaid Bhawan is a touch of luxury in the city. The heritage style hotel boasts a swimming pool and rooftop restaurant.

For more places to stay in Jaipur, you can check the latest prices.

More on Jaipur

Are you planning a trip to Jaipur? Check out our other articles to help plan your trip.

Did you enjoy our Guide for Galta Ji Temple in Jaipur, India?

Well, that concludes Guide for Galta Ji Temple in Jaipur, India. We hope you enjoy your time in this magical country. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, through our contact us page. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram here where we share further travel advice & inspiration.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

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