|
|
Located about 10 kms from Jaipur,
Galta is a holy pilgrimage centre, having a temple dedicated to Sun God.
This temple is only one of its kind in this part of the country.
Dotting
the serene green landscape, beyond the gardens, is situated the astounding
Sun Temple. The small Sun Temple, built by Diwan Kriparam on the top of
the highest peak is visible from any spot in Jaipur. This old pilgrim
centre stands amidst the low hills, guarding the city. To the east of
Jaipur, the Galta Temple is 2.5 kms climb from Surajpol.
The Galta Temple is financially supported by the Birla family. It's an
old place of pilgrimage, lying at the bottom of some hills in a lush
landscape of trees and bushes. A deep temple-filled gorge stands behind
the temple and there are good views over the surrounding plain.
Entering the complex, there is one temple at the left and one at the
right. The temple reverberates with the heavy noise of drums and bells.
Behind a fence, there are three holy tanks -called as 'kunds', situated on
top of each other.
At the side of the pools, there's a staircase leading to the upper pool.
In earlier days, men and women had separate pools to swim, but with the
passage of time, the same pool is used by both men and women. The first
pool was only for men, the second only for women, the third one for the
holy monkeys. The temple is dedicated the God of Apes, Shri Hanuman.
The place also has a number of natural springs. It crests the ridge over
a picturesque gorge and provides an impressive view of the city. As the
legend goes, sage Galina performed a difficult penance here.