Moti Doongri Fort

Moti Doongri Fort, perched on the eponymous “Pearl Hill” in Jaipur, is a captivating blend of spirituality and architectural elegance. Though the private palace—believed to resemble a Scottish castle and once home to Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II—is off‑limits to visitors, its exterior silhouette creates a striking backdrop against the sky . Base of the hill stands the revered Moti Doongri Ganesh Temple, built in 1761 under Seth Jai Ram Paliwal. Its Nagara‑style structure topped with three domes carved of limestone and marble weaves motifs spanning Indian, Islamic and Western traditions . The sanctum houses a centuries‑old red‑vermilion Ganesh idol, said to be more than 500 years old and brought from Udaipur . Visiting the temple is a rich cultural experience. Daily rituals—like Mangala Aarti at dawn and evening bhajans—perfume the air with incense and devotion . Wednesdays and festival days (Ganesh Chaturthi, Janmashtami, Annakut) draw lively crowds, street stalls sell laddoos and souvenirs, and the atmosphere vibrates with fervor . Though you can’t explore inside the fort itself, the hilltop stairways and winding approach offer panoramic views over Jaipur—especially scenic in soft morning or evening light . Early or late visits also dodge the midday heat and tourist traffic. In short, Moti Doongri delivers a serene yet culturally rich outing. It marries spiritual ritual, historical architecture, and vibrant local life—all with minimal entry barriers and zero fee. Ideal for lovers of heritage, photography, or quiet introspection, this “hidden gem” is one of Jaipur’s most atmospheric landmarks .

A small hill located in the heart of Jaipur. Moti means Pearl and Dungri means small hill and therefore the name Moti Dungri symbolizes a pearl hill. The palace in past was residential premises of Sawai Man Singh II (last ruler of Jaipur). Later it became the residence of Rajmata Gaytri Devi and her son Jagat Singh (youngest son of ruler). This palace is now private property of this royal family and restricts public entrance except the Lord Ganesha temple on festival days.

This fort is permanently closed, you have to watch only from outside. From local enquiry got to know that only on the day of Maharshivaratri it remains open for public.

What makes the visit even more special is the location: perched near the hilltop, it offers lovely views of Jaipur city. Right behind the temple sits the Moti Dungri Fort, a private residence that adds an old-world charm to the surroundings.

Constructed in 1761 by the visionary Seth Jai Ram Paliwal, the Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple is steeped in a legend as captivating as the structure itself. As the story goes, the King of Mewar was returning from a long journey, carrying Lord Ganesh's colossal idol upon a bullock cart

What a magical view during the rains, magnificent fort, opens once a year on Mahashivratri.

Its a private property of Jaipur Royale family and no one can visit this temple or fort except one day and that is Maha Shivratri. It looks so beautiful and one of the historical landmarks of Jaipur. I took this picture from JDA rooftop😉

Moti Dungri Fort is the Private property of Royal Family of Jaipur Raj Darbar. Maharani Gayatri Devi also offenly residing here when they were alive. Here are Royal Family private Shiv mandir for their worshipping. The Maharajas and Maharanis of Jaipur themselves used to worship in this temple. This Temple open for all devotees only once in a year on the day of Shivratri. Shiva temple called as Eklingeshwar Mahadev Temple. Devotees wait for a year to open the gate of the Shiva temple standing behind the famous Moti Dungri temple and Birla Temple of Jaipur. Remark MUST VISIT on the day of Shivratri and it open approximately 12.15 am