The colourful city of Jaipur is enriched with numerous glorious temples and religious places. Most of these temples have been built by the rulers of the bygone era and thus, they will remind you of the Rajputana grandeur. The city’s religious side is most reflected through its customs and traditions, especially during festivals. Discover some of the ancient temples, pavilions, holy ‘kunds’ and other religious places located in Jaipur.
Originally named as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, this architectural marvel of Jaipur is popularly called ‘Birla Mandir’. Built in pure white marble, this Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. You can see the Moti Dungri Fort from here. The temple houses idols of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi along with other Hindu deities. Other than its religious significance, this temple is known for its architectural beauty as well.
Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Govind Devji Temple is located in the City Palace complex. The image of the deity worshipped here was brought from Vrindavan (Lord Krishna’s land) by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. It is believed that this image is an exact replica of Krishna’s form during the time when he incarnated on earth.
Located at the heart of Jaipur, outside the Chandpole Gate, this church is a world renowned heritage symbol. It is one of the oldest churches in Rajasthan. Scottish Missionaries had established it in the year 1872. It is remains open all days of the week from 8:30a.m. in the morning till late evenings during summers and from 9a.m. till late evenings during winters. It is quite popular among people who have immense love for Jesus and the ones who seek experience of being in a church.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple located in Chaura Rasta, Jaipur is a major pilgrimage spot in the city. Built in the 1784 AD, this temple has a lot of religious significance. The ‘shivaling’ here is made in black stone and has a diameter of 9 inches. Some of the main attractions include golden pictographs, huge bull statue made of brass and beautiful bells. The temple receives huge rush during festive times, especially during Mahashiva Ratri, plus a special puja is performed here every Monday.
Gurudwara Sahib Guru Nanak Darbar located in Hanuman Nagar, Jaipur, is visited by hundreds on Sundays and on all important events and occasions related to Sikhism. This gurudwara caters to the sangat of Jaipur west and surrounding areas. Every Sunday, ‘Guru ka Langar’ is served. The ‘langar’ is also organized on all ‘Guruparbs’. The gurudwara building spreads across an area of 3871 sq. m.
Located near Birla Mandir, this temple is one of the city’s oldest and most popular temples. It houses a pleasing idol of Lord Ganesha, which reflects extremely positive vibes. Built by Seth Jai Ram Paliwal, this temple has been beautifully carved out of stone. It is best known for its astonishing lattice work on marble and artistic mythological images. You’ll often find the temple bustling with crowds and festive preparations, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi and Paush Bada.
Perched on the top amidst the Aravalli hills, nearby Nahargarh and Jaigarh, the Garh Ganesh temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is believed that Lord Ganesha resides here in the form of a child, ‘Purushakriti’. The temple was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, when he performed ‘Ashwamegha yagya’ prior to the establishment of the Jaipur city.
It’s a good climb from the Brahampuri area in Jaipur to the top. The climb is well enjoyed by both youngsters and kids. Reaching the temple at the top offers mesmerizing views of most of the Jaipur city and it is an exciting experience to try and identify Jaipur’s big buildings from such height.
Galta Ji is a pre-historic Hindu pilgrimage site, located 10km east of Jaipur. The complex consists of a series of temples, natural fresh water springs and 7 holy ‘kunds’ in which several pilgrims bathe. A hilltop temple offers stunning views of the Jaipur city. The Galta Ji temple complex is famous for its clan of monkeys, who can be spotted everywhere around. It is known for its architecture, scenic beauty and monkeys, among tourists and photographers.
Jama Masjid, located on the Johari Bazaar Road, Jaipur is a popular place of worship for the muslims. There are shops on both sides of the mosque’s building since it is located in a running market in the walled city. Its verandahs were recently vacated after a long fight with the shop owners. Hundreds of devotees visit here to say their prayers, especially on Fridays.
Located at the New Sanganer Road, opposite to Lazeez Restaurant, the Indian Pentecostal Church of God is a very peace-giving place to visit. It is always a pleasant experience to enter the church, sit there, say your prayers and enjoy the serenity and the positive vibes of its atmosphere. It is one of the oldest churches in the city. The church is open from 9a.m. to 12a.m. and special prayers take place every Sunday from 9:30a.m. to 1:30p.m.
Swami Narayan Mandir, commonly called Akshardham temple, is located in Chitrakoot, Jaipur. One major attraction is its stunning architectural style and clean and spacious premises. The temple premises are a beautiful place to spend some time alone or with family and friends. However, it is a sacred site that requires you to maintain its sanctity and respect. You must be clothed a bit conservatively, such that your shoulders and knees are properly covered. You won’t be allowed to enter if you are wearing shorts or skirts shorter than knee length.
Placed on the hills of the Aravalli range of the Jaipur-Agra highway, the Choolgiri Jain temple is a renowned religious site. It is also popular as an adventurous hangout place for youngsters, who love experiencing a thrilling mountain trip. The temple houses a 7 feet high statue of Jain Tirthankara Parshwanath in white stone, along with 3.5 feet high statues of Lord Mahavir Swami and Lord Neminath. The temple is also known for its scenic beauty and ultimate architecture.
Located in close proximity to the City Palace of Jaipur, the Kale Hanuman Ji temple is around 1000 years old. It is famous for the colour of its idol of Lord Hanuman, which is black in colour. However, mostly idols of Lord Hanuman are made in either red or orange colour. The people of Jaipur have a lot of faith in worshipping here, which is one reason for the popularity of this place. Even the architecture is beautiful and worth a visit.
Situated on the Delhi-Jaipur highway, Khole Ke Hanuman Ji is another temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the disciple of Lord Ram. People of Jaipur have extreme faith in this temple, which takes them to the temple again and again. The temple houses eye-catching artistry and is recognized as a major religious as well as tourism site in the state.