Moti Doongri Fort & Temple
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Moti Dungri meaning the "Hill of Pearls" is a small hill located right in the center of Jaipur. Housed atop this hill are a privately owned fort palace & the Lakshmi Narayan Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Both, the temple as well as palace are excellent architectural marvels attracting thousands of tourists to the place from across the world. |
Fort:
The hilltop Moti Dungri Fort & Palace is a close replica of the famous Scottish Castle. Legends suggest that this place, once a small fortress, was initially called Shankargarh (Shiva's Foot). However, later the place was remodeled in the lines of the Scottish Castle by Sawai Man Singh II, to be used as the venue for endless socialite parties.
Today, Moti Dungri Fort Palace serves as the residence of Late. Rajmata Gayatri Devi & her son Jagat Singh & is inaccessible for common public.
Temple:
Located at the foot of Moti Dungri Fort, the Birla Lakshmi Narayan Temple presents a fine blend of Indian, Western & Islamic forms represented by the three domes of the temple. Constructed in white marble, the exterior of the temple has finely carved mythological sculptures while the interior displays mythological proceedings. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is renowned for its picturesque location & the scenic view it offers. According to folklores, the huge idol of Lord Ganesha was brought by the king of Mavali who established this temple near Moti Dungri.
Today, the Moti Dungri Temple serves as one of the major tourist attractions & religious destinations of the city of Jaipur. Thousands of devotees from far & wide throng to this temple surrounded by lush green gardens, to pay homage to Lord Ganesha. Though the temple is accessible all year round, the best time to visit is during Janmashthami when the temple is gorgeously decorated. |
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