Forts in Rajasthan: Hill of Pearls- "Moti Dungri Fort"

Forts in Rajasthan: The Moti Dungri fort, situated with the Moti Dungri temple and Birla mandir is one of the best scenery of the Pink City.
Forts in Rajasthan: Hill of Pearls- "Moti Dungri Fort"
Forts in Rajasthan: Hill of Pearls- "Moti Dungri Fort"

Forts in Rajasthan: The fort was built in the 18th century by the ruler of Jaipur, Madho Singh I and the idea to create the fort came from a Scottish castle to enhance the beauty of Jaipur.

The fortress is also known as "Shankargarh" because of the temple of Lord Shiva situated out there.

The fort only opens to the public on the festive day of "Maha Shivratri" which makes the fort more auspicious to visit for travelers.

The purpose to build this fort was the innumerable parties attended by the top socialists of that time.

This fort was also known for the residence of "Maharani Gayatri Devi" for some time.

Maharani Gayatri Devi
Maharani Gayatri Devi
Forts in Rajasthan: Hill of Pearls- "Moti Dungri Fort"
Forts in Rajasthan: Palace Of Breeze-"Hawa Mahal"

Forts in Rajasthan: Moti Dungri temple and the King of Mewar

With the temple of Lord Shiva at the top, there is another temple of "Lord Ganesha" beneath the fort which was built somewhere in the 18th century by Seth Jai Ram Paliwal.

Moti Dungri temple of Lord  Ganesha
Moti Dungri temple of Lord Ganesha

There is a legend about the temple in Pink City which says that when the king of Mewar was heading back to his palace after a long journey carrying a massive Ganesh on his bullock cart.

He decided that he will build a temple wherever the bullock stopped. Apparently, the bullock stopped at the Moti Dungri fort, which is where the temple is situated today.

The temple is considered one of the most auspicious temples of Jaipur. Many people come to present their offerings every day.

Best time to visit Moti Dungri

As there is a saying, there is no best time to visit a temple since one can go whenever his heart pleases to offer prayers.

But here, if you want to get the full extract of your visit then you must go to the temple on Wednesday. Lord Ganesha is the lord of the planet mercury and Wednesday is the day of Mercury.

Birla Mandir

It is surely the most fascinating and eye-catching part of the Moti Dungri fort. It is also a temple at the foot of the fort but this temple gives a vibe beyond a normal temple to any visitor.

Birla Mandir
Birla MandirImage Credit: shutterstock.com

It is said that the Maharaja gave land to the Birla family for Re 1 when the Birla family offered to build a temple there.

The temple is solely made of white marble which creates a fascinating view. The construction began in 1977 and the temple was opened to the public on February 22, 1988.

Tips to visit Moti Dungri temple and Birla Mandir

The best time to visit both the temples is in cold weather as the Birla Mandir tiles can burn your feet like hell.

Rajasthani Culture and its heritage
Rajasthani Culture and its heritage

You must visit the fair near the Birla Mandir which takes place every Wednesday, where a lot of fancy items can be bought.

One must take off his belongings as the temple premise remains a crowded one.

The temperature of Jaipur remains too high, so hydrating yourself will be best to do.

Forts in Rajasthan: Frequently asked questions

Q

Who lives in Moti Dungri Fort?

A

The fort is the residence of Maharani Gayatri Devi.

Q

Why peoples are not allowed to visit Moti Dungri Fort?

A

The fort is a private residence of the Rajput royals and outsiders are not allowed inside.

Q

Which God is there in Birla Mandir?

A

The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi.

Q

What is the best food one can have near Birla mandir?

A

You can have one of the best pav-bhaji in front of the temple.

Forts in Rajasthan: Hill of Pearls- "Moti Dungri Fort"
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