Temples in Jaipur
Temples are part of daily life in Jaipur. Crowds gather for morning darshan at Govind Dev Ji, families visit Moti Dungri Ganesh temple before new ventures, and small shrines sit on almost every old-city street. Several of the best-known temples are close to the main sights, so they fit easily into a day of sightseeing.
The most important is Govind Dev Ji Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, in the City Palace grounds. Remember that these are active places of worship, so dress modestly and follow each temple's rules.
On Amber Fort
A temple within Amber Fort, with its own deity and its own rules.
Elsewhere in Jaipur
Famous Temples in Jaipur
Govind Dev Ji Temple stands in the gardens behind the City Palace and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is the most visited temple in the city. The doors open for short darshan sessions, called jhankis, several times a day, and close in between.
Birla Mandir, also called the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, is a white marble temple at the foot of Moti Dungri hill. It looks especially bright when lit up after dark.
Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, next to Birla Mandir, is one of the busiest temples in Jaipur, especially on Wednesdays, when devotees come to worship Lord Ganesh.
Galta Ji, about 10 km east of the city, is a temple complex built into a rocky gorge, with natural spring-fed pools. It is often called the Monkey Temple because of the many monkeys that live there.
Shila Devi Temple, inside Amber Fort, is dedicated to a form of Goddess Kali and was the family temple of the Amber rulers.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Jaipur
- Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Wear shoes that are easy to take off, and carry socks, as marble floors get very hot in summer.
- Check darshan times at Govind Dev Ji, as the doors close between sessions.
- Photography of the main deity is usually not allowed; look for signs and ask if unsure.
- Keep food and loose items out of sight at Galta Ji, where monkeys often grab them.
- Visit early in the morning for a calmer visit and cooler floors.
- Expect big crowds on festival days such as Janmashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi.
Questions
Jaipur — FAQ
What are the darshan times at Govind Dev Ji Temple?
The temple opens for several short darshan sessions (jhankis) between early morning and night, and closes in between. Timings change with the season, so check at the gate or on the temple's notice board before you go.
Why is Galta Ji called the Monkey Temple?
Large troops of monkeys live around the Galta Ji temple complex and its spring-fed pools. Keep bags closed and do not carry food in your hands.
Can I take photos inside Jaipur's temples?
Photos of the main deity are usually not allowed, and some temples, such as Birla Mandir, do not allow photography inside at all. The outer courtyards and gardens are often fine, but always follow the signs.
Which temple is inside the City Palace complex?
Govind Dev Ji Temple stands in the Jai Niwas gardens, just north of the City Palace. The royal family's palace was built so that the ruler could see the deity from his rooms.