Visiting the Galtaji Monkey Temple in Jaipur, India

The Monkey Temple, or Galta Ji, is a centuries-old Hindu pilgrimage site located in the rocky hills just outside of Jaipur, India. Known for its sacred water tanks, intricate architecture, and, of course, its mischievous monkey residents, this temple complex offers its visitors a mix of spirituality, history, and, of course, wildlife encounters. Dedicated to the monkey god Hanuman, the site draws both locals seeking blessings and travelers looking for interesting experiences.

This temple is also known by a few other names, such as Hanuman Ji or Galta Ji) and I didn’t have this on our itinerary. However, our driver suggested stopping off at this spot, and while I was a little hesitant (I don’t like monkeys), I went along with it.

Here’s my guide to visiting the Jaipur Money Temple (Galtaji) in India.

Of the places I’ve visited in India, the Monkey Temple in Jaipur was one of my least favorite experiences and I do not recommend taking time to see this place.

Jaipur galtaji Monkey Temple – Location and Details

Monkey Temple in Jaipur – Location:

Hanuman Ji / Galtaji Monkey temple is located just outside of Jaipur and can easily be added to your Jaipur itinerary if this temple is of interest to you. If you haven’t hired a driver for the day, you may want to pass on this temple, as many Uber/Ola drivers are willing to take you here, but it’s extremely difficult finding return transportation. There is no cell signal here and if you happen to get a signal to summon Uber/Ola, you’ll find that many drivers will cancel on you.

Cost: Rs100 for entrance, Rs 150 for a camera fee, if you want to take pictures. So total, about $3 USD.

Bathrooms at the Jaipur Monkey Temple:

The squat toilets are free. If you want to use a ‘western’-style toilet, you must pay a small amount of rupees to the attendant. I paid for the western toilet and the restrooms were disgusting – they’re clearly not using that money to pay for the maintenance of these restrooms!

Visiting the Galtaji Monkey Temple in Jaipur

The moment you step out of your ride, you’ll be swarmed by kids offering “protection” from the monkeys, and/or their services as a guide. Spoiler alert: it’s a scam. If you decide you want a bodyguard against these furry troublemakers, go for it—but know you’re paying into a system where the money won’t end up with the child, but with their boss lurking nearby.

The monkeys here are completely unfazed by humans—they know they run the show. But as long as you’re not waving snacks around, they’ll mostly leave you alone. They’re everywhere, sure, but you’re unlikely to get pounced on or scratched if you keep your food stashed away. And don’t go digging through your bag inside the temple—these little fuckers are trained to think you’re unwrapping a treat. Grab whatever you need before you step inside!

The temple itself has seen better days—it’s weathered, worn, and definitely not the most stunning one out there. There’s a sacred pool where you might spot locals taking a holy dip, adding a touch of local authenticity to the scene.

Step into any of the temple rooms, though, and you’ll likely encounter holy men eager to offer you a blessing—for a fee of 500 rupees. Personally, I think it’s a bit of a scam and always skip it, but hey, your money, your choice.

Galtaji Temple Jaipur – Scams

Let’s get into the scam of this place – I feel like the entire place is just one big scam ring. After being in India for a while, I grew wary and skeptical of everything.

The Monkey Temple in Jaipur is a scammer’s playground. As mentioned earlier, you’ll encounter self-proclaimed “Monkey Masters”—fake guides loitering at the entrance, promising protection from the monkeys. Even if you politely (or not-so-politely) decline, they’ll stick to you like glue, offering an unsolicited “tour.” And just when you think you’re free from their grip, they’ll block you as you attempt to exit and demand an outrageous fee for their unwanted services. In my case, the guy had the audacity to ask for what amounted to $50 USD! Consider yourself warned!

If you read other reviews online about the Monkey Temple, this is a common occurrence here – so if you choose to visit the Jaipur Monkey Temple, beware!

Galtaji Monkey Temple Jaipur – Final Thoughts

The Jaipur Monkey Temple (Galtaji) is an easy NO from me, dawg. It’s not well maintained, it’s crawling with the worst kind of scammers — the persistent and angry ones — and frankly isn’t worth your time in Jaipur – there are so many other, better places to spend your precious time in this city, why waste it at the Monkey Temple? Monkeys in India are everywhere – so don’t be fooled thinking this is the only place you’ll see them!