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The Grand Indian Route
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Galtaji Temple - The Hidden Treasure Of Jaipur [ A Guide]
Jaipur is without a doubt the most sought-after city in Rajasthan. The city is famous worldwide for its Hawa Mahal and as the “Pink City of India.”
The city’s tourism is so heavily based on its larger-than-life persona and magnanimous forts and palaces that often, many actual travel gems of the city go unnoticed. Galtaji Temple is one of them.
Galtaji Temple is Jaipur’s hidden paradise that is set amid the narrow crevices of Aravalli hills. It is a Hindu pilgrimage site that is quite popular among locals for its temple, kunds, and natural spring.
Today we will talk about this temple in detail so that the next time you venture into Jaipur, you do not miss this uncommon delight.
Are you looking for a travel expert for Jaipur? Ping us to take help from our travel experts to craft your perfect Rajasthan itinerary. Request a quote now!
Why is Galtaji Temple so famous?
Well, the answer to this question is – Galtaji Temple is beautiful, period. And it’s not just the setting or the temple that we are talking about here. We mean holistically; everything in Galtaji Temple is beyond perfect.
Secondly, the temple holds a lot of reverence in the local community. People on a daily basis actually take out time from their lives to visit this place.
Another aspect of its popularity is the sheer number of monkeys that lurk here on a daily basis. The number is so humongous that now this temple is also famous as the monkey temple of Jaipur.
Where is Galtaji Temple located?
Galtaji Temple is located far away from the usual horns and chatters in a secluded spot where nothing but beauty surrounds you.
It is set somewhere 10 km from Jaipur in the heart of a hilly terrain bounded by a striking gorge.
To reach here, you’ll have to hike for around 15-20 minutes. It will be tiring; however, you’ll forget your qualms once you catch sight of this beauty.
What to expect in Galtaji Temple?
Galtaji Temple consists of several shrines, holy Kund, pavilions, and natural spring- all bordered with thick plum trees and bushes.
You’ll find shrines of Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Hanuman within the temple complex.
Built-in pink sandstone, Galtaji Temple showcases unique architecture for a temple, more so because it looks like a palace.
The interiors of the shrine are beautifully embellished with carving and paintings. It has painted walls, round roofs, and pillars.
There are seven sacred kunds in the complex, out of which the ‘Galta Kund’ is the holiest as it never runs dry.
You can catch spectacular views of the city from this place and bask in its rich greenery while you are here.
Don’t forget to see the following while you are here:
Galway Bagh Gate
Hanuman Temple
Brahma Temple
Vishnu Temple
Galta Kund
Is there an entry fee in Galtaji Temple?
No, there is no entry fee for the temple. Everyone and anyone can visit the temple for free.
What are the timings for Galtaji Temple?
Visiting hours for this monument are 5 am to 9 pm, all seven days a week.
What is the history of Galtaji?
Diwan Rao Kriparam built Galtaji Temple as a haven for the Puritans belonging to the Ramanandi Sect under the occupation of Jogi.
It was built in the early 16th century as a tribute to Saint Galtav, who had several encounters with the almighty. This place was believed to be his meditation spot where he did penance for hundred years. It is said that impressed by his dedication; the Gods blessed him with an abundance of water.
People also state that this is the very spot where Tulsidas, a sage and a scholar, wrote sections of the Holy Ramcharitmanas.
What is the best time to visit Galtaji Temple?
The months from February-March and October-December are the best time to visit this place.
During these months, as the weather is pleasant, navigating the area becomes more effortless.
Summers can be pretty harsh if you think about traveling to Galtaji Temple, as it can get pretty hot and uncomfortable.
However, even during the best months, there are certain festive weeks you need to avoid ditching the crowd. Makar Sankranti festival in January is one of them. During this month, the Galtaji Temple is thronged with tourists and pilgrims to take a dip in the kund ‘s holy waters. So avoid such times at all costs.
How to Reach Galtaji Temple?
Here is how you can reach Galtaji Temple.
By Air
The nearest airport to Galtaji Temple is in Jaipur – Sanganer Airport, 10 km away from Galtaji Temple. From there, you can hire a cab to get to the temple.
By Rail
Galtaji Temple’s nearest railway station is Bais Godam Railway Station Junction. It is 1 km from Galtaji Temple, and a cab or an auto can drop you to Galtaji.
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By Road
The road to Galtaji Temple is smooth in most parts. You can hire a cab or a tuk-tuk from Jaipur to reach it via road.
What are some sightseeing spots near Galtaji?
Jaipur is the nearest city near Galtaji Temple. So all that’s up for display in the pink city of Rajasthan are the popular spots for sightseeing near Galtaji.
This list includes City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Fort Nahargarh, Fort Jaigarh, Fort Amber, Rani Garden Sisodia, Mahal Hawa, Mahal Jal, Mandir Birla, and Albert Hall.
And that’s it! This was your ultimate guide to the Galtaji temple. If you are interested in learning more about such Rajasthani monuments, click here. And if you wish to craft an itinerary with many such destinations, request a quote here and say goodbye to all your worries.
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How to plan a Rajasthan trip? Step by step guide to planning a holiday in Rajasthan. Includes top places to visit in Rajasthan, top experiences, and more.
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Hone Your Cooking Skills At These Top Cooking Classes In Jaipur
A trip to Jaipur brings a lot of exciting things to the table, learning to cook authentic Rajasthani meals being one of them.
Jaipur offers a vivid array of cooking workshops where travelers can know more about the state’s culinary history while learning some quick Indian recipes. And who doesn’t love that!
If that’s something that titillates your heart, too, then you need to check out one of these cooking classes while you are in Jaipur.
Hey, but before we begin, if you need someone to plan a Rajasthan tour with many such activities, you might want to book with us. We curate unique itineraries that focus on experiences; if that’s something that piques your interest, request a quote right away!
Jaipur Cooking Classes
Jaipur Cooking Classes is one of the most popular cooking workshops in the city. It is hosted by Chef Lokesh Thakur and his wife in their Jaipur residence.
Chef Lokesh is a highly experienced chef with over 26 years of industry and seven years of teaching experience. So you can only imagine the expertise he will be able to offer to you.
The workshop presents both crash courses and long-term courses in various Indian cuisine, especially North Indian food.
With the standard menu of the course you will be able to learn how to make a basic Indian meal. In addition to that alterations to this menu are also allowed at the time of booking if you have something specific in mind.
If you consider yourself a food connoisseur and want to learn from someone with years of professional experience, then this is the class for you.
Specialty: North Indian Dishes, including Mughlai, Rajasthani, and even Kashmiri Dishes.
Neelam’s Cooking classes
Are you dedicated to learning authentic Rajasthani cuisine from an authentic Rajasthani household? Then, Neelam’s cooking classes are for you.
Neelam is the chef/host of this workshop and is a pro when it comes to Rajasthani food. Her expertise is in the most basic yet delicious recipes that anyone can make in no time.
At Neelam’s cooking class, you’ll mainly find an Indian vegetarian menu that is second to none in terms of taste.
Signing up for her class is like hanging out with a friend, and people have continually stated that her sessions are pretty fun.
Specialty: Rajasthani and Street Food.
Where: 76, Shivaji Nagar, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Bhatta Basti, Shastri Nagar, Jaipur
Rajputana Family Cooking Classes
What if we tell you that there is a way you can learn authentic Rajasthani cuisine from someone who belongs to the royal bloodline? And what if we tell you that the location for the class is at their ancestral home? Will you scream with joy with this information? Yes? Then you should definitely sign up for Rajputana Family Cooking Classes.
Here, learn the Indian main course meal from Chef Divya Kalwara – a personal chef turned teacher who has her name written in journals such as London Times and Washington Post.
Become a witness to Rajputana hospitality and culture whilst learning a cooking style that takes inspiration from the Chef’s Rajput ancestry.
While you are at it, observe the culture closely with traditional “Rajputi” recipes that have been passed down to the Chef by her mother and grandmother.
Specialty: Rajasthani Food
Maximum group size that you can bring: 12.
Shalini Cooking Classes
How do you feel about learning authentic Indian cuisine from a mother-in-law daughter-in-law duo? Does that pique your interest? Then, believe us that Shalini Cooking Classes will not fail to woo you.
In this cooking class, spend a day learning and cooking a wholesome meal in an authentic Indian fashion. The meal you’ll cook will be purely vegetarian made with seasonal vegetables.
The experience also includes welcome drinks and a three-course Rajasthani meal from the family.
Where: Kanti Chandra Road, Kanti Nagar, Sindhi Camp, Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Snehdeep Indian Cooking Classes
Would you like to learn cooking from someone who got international recognition in the “Food Guide to India”?
Then come visit Dr. Smita Kulshredhtha in her home for your personalized cooking workshop.
Learn more about Rajasthani cuisine and Indian snacks from Dr. Smita and her family while you hone your culinary skills.
Sounds amazing to us, what about you?
Especially: Rajasthani meals.
Where: Sneh Deep B-33, Sethi Colony Jaipur.
Manju Cooking Classes
When you are searching for a cooking class, what is better than finding someone who has a teaching experience of 13 plus years only with foreign clientele?
That’s a dealbreaker isn’t it?
At Manju’s cooking classes, learn a plethora of Indian cuisines – including Rajasthani, Kashmiri, South Indian, and even Indian street food.
In addition to the meals, you’ll experience the pinnacle of hospitality at Manju’s home, where you’ll be welcomed with big smiles, saris, and turbans.
Along with the regular cooking class package, you can also opt for the market trip wherein you’ll source the materials for your class from a local farmers’ market.
Where: 76, Shivaji Nagar, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Bhatta Basti, Shastri Nagar, Jaipur.
Cooking Demo, Suroth House
At Suroth House, you will have an all round cooking experience that starts with sourcing ingredients and ends with a lip-smacking meal.
Tejveer Singh and Nidhi Singh are the chefs/owners of this cooking class, and they have exceptional mastery over spice and flavors.
You’ll be greeted here in a perfect Rajasthani fashion and will enjoy the fusion of traditional and modern Rajasthani culture.
Come here to cook with the two hosts while chatting your evening away.
Where: Suroth House, D -231/B Tulsi Marg, Bani Park, Jaipur
Cooking Masala
Are you an organic king or queen that loves a wholesome experience?
Well, then cooking masala might as well be your match made in heaven.
This cooking class which is set in a typical Indian household is not only organic, but it also shares profits with a local NGO that works with differently-abled people.
Apart from this, in this class, you can learn a variety of cuisines – including North Indian, South Indian, Rajasthani, and even Jain food.
The best thing about Cooking Masala is that they even have quotes for single dishes in addition to the combos so that you can craft a menu that you are willing to learn.
Specialty: Rajasthani and Jain food.
Where: Tonk Road, E 11 Surya Nagar, Taron ki Joint, Jaipur
Those were the best cooking classes in Jaipur. Book them on your next trip to Rajasthan to add a skill set to your travel journal. Are you having trouble crafting an itinerary with many such experiences? Book with us today and be stress-free throughout your trip. Request a quote now to avail of our excellent services. We are waiting!
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The Grand Indian Route - A Luxury India travel agency providing customized India trips packages to witness top Indian tourist places matching your interest.
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The Grand Indian Route - A Luxury India travel agency providing customized India trips packages to witness top Indian tourist places matching your interest.
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Top 16 Natural Wonders in India That You Shouldn’t Miss
Think of India, and you’ll immediately think about the Taj Mahal, the Indian culture, monuments and streets brimmed with people.
For a country with so much geographical diversity, it’s a shame that India’s natural treasures get far less attention for a country with so much geographical diversity than all its other fronts. But not anymore!
From mountains to deserts to forests and caves, here are 16 stunning natural wonders that one should consider before planning a trip to India.
1. Pangong Tso Lake, Ladakh
Pangong Tso is the world’s highest saltwater lake, notable for its dramatic landscape and waters that change colours throughout the day.
A potential Ramsar Site, the lake stands in stark contrast to the arid mountain surrounding it and experiences a swarm of tourists every year.
2. Lonar Lake, Maharashtra
Located 500 km east of Mumbai is the beautiful Lonar Lake of Maharashtra. This basalt crater lake is 50,000-year-old and is drop-dead gorgeous.
Fringed by dense green forests and a handful of ancient temples, the lake presents an awe-inspiring view to anyone who visits it. Plus, its unique geological makeup makes it a must-visit natural wonder to see in 2021.
3. Needle Hole Point, Maharashtra
Tucked 7km from Mahabaleshwar is an aesthetic view of the Deccan trap that needs more attention.
A natural rock formation with a hole that looks like an elephant is what this fantastic site Needle Hole point offers. Come here to fall in love with nature and its exceptional creations.
4. Sand Dunes of Hunder, Himachal Pradesh
India’s cold desert, the Nubra Valley is located in the foothills of the Himalayas.
Beautiful, barren and unfathomably cold, the land features magnificent white vastness that can give other landscapes a run for their money.
Furthermore, its rolling expanse of dunes and Bactrian camels makes it a natural gem for the state and the country.
5. Borra Caves, Andhra Pradesh
Enroute Araku Valley is the vast million-years-old limestone Borra Caves that go 80 m into the earth’s crust.
This largest cave in India is famous for its graffiti-like illusions created by moss and algae clinging to rough erosions.
6. Gandikota Canyon, Maharashtra
India has its own version of the Grand Canyon that no one talks about. This spectacular gorge formed by river Pennar is one of India’s most handsome pieces of nature’s architecture.
Apart from its natural boulder beauty, the gorge is also famous for its magnificent fort that sits atop this panoramic view.
7. Loktak Lake, Manipur
Do you know that there is a lake in India with the only floating national park of the world?
Undoubtedly, one of the most popular attractions in North-East India, Loktak lake owes its ethereal beauty to the island lookalike swamps that harbours vegetation and wildlife.
8. Living Root Bridges, Meghalaya
Do you know that India is home to living and breathing rubber tree bridges that carry the local traffic even today?
The two living root bridges of Meghalaya are 500 years old. Located in Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong, the indigenous Khasi Tribe built the bridges by bonding the naturally occurring rubber tree with Betul nut trunks.
9. Bhedaghat Marble Rocks, Madhya Pradesh
The Bhedaghat Marble Rocks is an 8 km stretch of the stunningly beautiful landscape set on River Narmada.
Laden with white, black and brown coloured marbles, the play of light and shadow by the sun on these marbles accords a kaleidoscope of unforgettable images.
10. Sangetsar Lake, Arunachal Pradesh
Surrounded by wonderfully lush green valleys and snow-capped mountains, Sangestar Tso is a beautiful freshwater lake that bejewels the state.
Often regarded as one of the most secluded lakes in India, the Sangetsar Lake is the epitome of purity on Earth according to the local Buddhists.
11. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
If there is heaven on earth, it has to be in the valley of flowers Uttarakhand.
A trekker’s paradise, Valley of flowers as the name suggests is a meadow of wonder laden with green carpets and flowers.
Not so easy to reach; this whimsical landscape is definitely a treat for the soul that you need to see at least once.
12. Hide and Seek Beach
Hide and seek beach or the Chandipur beach is a sprawling golden stretch of sand lined with Casuarina trees and lush coastal vegetation.
This mysterious beach got its name because the seawater here disappears and reappears periodically during the day. Doesn’t that make it a natural wonder?
13. Magnetic Hill, Ladakh
Do you know that objects and cars roll uphill defying gravity at Magnetic Hill?
The region is an optical illusion of sorts that makes the actual downhill road appear as if it is uphill. Plus, imagine all this happening with the gorgeous backdrop of Ladakh. We mean what else can one ask for?
14. Krishna’s Butterball, Tamil Nadu
Perhaps one of the rarest sights on Earth – India’s balancing rock is a formation that defies all laws of gravity.
This gigantic rock weighing over 250 tonnes rests on a slippery slope of a hill in Mahabalipuram looking as if it will fall any second. Interestingly enough, it never does.
15. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Dissimilar to the rest of the region, Rann of Kutch is an unearthly salt marsh found in the northern part of Gujarat in the Thar Desert.
Despite being amid arid lands and harsh climate, Kutch has always been fertile with culture and diversity. A superb area for camel safari, wildlife escapades and cultural immersion, this land of multiple horizons is definitely a must-add bucket-list item.
16. Hogenakkal Fall
Also popular as the Niagra Falls of India, Hogenakkal Waterfalls brims with beauty and is famous for its healing power.
The carbonatite rocks found here are the oldest in South Asia and the world, when combined with the cascading waters, making for scenery that’s whimsical in every way possible.
These were our top natural wonders of India. If you are interested in other such places, tune in to our landscape of India blog. However, if you plan to book a trip to any of these places, ping us! We will happily help you.
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What to Know Before Embarking a Trip to Kumbhalgarh – The Great Wall of India
One of Rajasthan’s lesser-known tourist attractions, Kumbhalgarh Fort and its beautifully landscaped grounds make for a beautiful escape from the bustle of Udaipur.
This Rajasthani fortress that claims to have the longest wall in India is a hidden gem and can enchant you in a myriad of ways. If you are planning to see it anytime soon, know that there are a few things you need to know before embarking a trip to Kumbhalgarh. This post will be all about that. So let us just cut the chance and give you what you came for, you can thank us later!
Hey! Are you planning to visit Kumbhalgarh anytime soon? In case you can use some help in planning, do know, we have your back. We can craft a tailor-made trip for you in your desired budget! Ping us to learn more.
History of Kumbhalgarh
The mighty fort of Kumbhalgarh was commissioned in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, the ruler of Mewar. It was one among 32 other forts built by him.
The fort was founded at the site of an existing castle which belonged to a Jain King, so don’t be surprised if you see more Jain temples than Hindu ones here.
Kumbhalgarh was constructed with the intent to protect the ruler and his subjects from potential harm. The fort did fulfil its destiny and was never conquered.
Apart from it having the second-longest wall globally, Kumbhalgarh is also known in history to be the birthplace of the legendary king Maharana Pratap.
Some facts about the fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort is a World Heritage Site today and is the second-largest fort in all of Rajasthan.
The wall that runs along the fort’s perimeter stretches 36 km in length and 15 km in width.
The fort houses seven gates and over 360 Hindu and Jain Temples. Surprisingly, 300 of these temples are Jain, and the rest are Hindu shrines.
A wildlife sanctuary surrounds Kumbhalgarh. One can tour this sanctuary to see many animals including Chinkara, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Antelope, Hyena, and various birds species.
Do you know that the Thar Desert’s sand dunes are also visible from the fort’s topmost point?
The Fort was built from a security point of view, so you will spot a ton of security check-posts while entering its premises.
The fort is said to be invincible because it was never won in a battle. However, it was captured by deceit once when the Mughals poisoned the Fort’s water supply.
To provide light to the farmers working at night, Maharana Kumbha (the former ruler) use to light a Giant Lamp every night using 100 kg of cotton and 50 kg Ghee.
Do you know that a person willfully sacrificed his life to ensure the successful construction of the fort?
Some Travel Tips
It takes 3-4 hours to see the place through and through. So, you should consider the time you can devote before going here.
Kumbhalgarh is 82 km from Udaipur, and as there is no railway station or airport in its adjoining areas, you will have to visit it via the road. However, remember that if you take a cab to see this place, it will cost you a fortune. Instead, rent a car daily for a lot less.
The fort’s ticket is relatively cheap; however, you will have to pay extra for professional cameras.
If you have time to spare, see the light and sound show that begins at 6:45 pm. Believe us. It offers a spectacle for the price you pay.
Unlike other forts and palaces in Rajasthan, Kumbhalgarh is devoid of guides. At certain places. There are a few boards, but that’s all about it.
There are only a handful of restaurants inside and around the temple complex.
Don’t keep very high expectations from the fort’s interiors and certainly don’t compare it with other forts and palaces in Rajasthan.
If you add Kumbhalgarh to your itinerary, do visit the Haldighati and Ranakpur Temple Complex too.
Top Places to See in Kumbhalgarh
1. Neelkanth Mahadev
Neelkanth Mahadev is one of the most significant temples to exist inside the fort. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple showcases a round dome, 24 pillars, and a 6 feet high Lingam.
Another interesting fact to know about this temple is that the lingam was set at the Maharana Kumbha’s eye level when he sat to pray. You can imagine his height!
2. Kumbha Palace
It is a double-storeyed structure built in quintessential Rajasthani style. While you are there, don’t forget to see the beautiful blue darbar, and the vividly distinct men and women areas.
3. Badal Madal
At the highest point of the fort, you will find Badal Mahal – the palace of clouds. It is the fort’s main palace. The climb up to the fort is reasonably easy but is steep at specific stretches.
Regarded as one of the most prominent buildings inside the fort, this two-floored palace is famous for its impressive yet straightforward architectural style. Beautiful murals and breathtaking views of Kumbhalgarh is what you can expect here.
4. Vedi Temple Complex
As you enter through the massive and gorgeous Ram Pol the (main gate), you will spot the Vedi Temple Complex towards your right.
Built to perform Yajna in 1457, the temple today consists of Yajna Vedi, Square Chatri and Triple Shrine. The temple complex is beautiful and laden with intricate designs.That is all! Did you enjoy our tips and facts on Kumbhalgarh? Then you’ll love to know that we cover many such structures in detail on www.thegrandindianroute.com. If that intrigues you, then welcome on board to explore India a little closely!
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