Maihar Temple Guide: Journey to Maa Sharda Devi

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Maihar Temple Guide: Journey to Maa Sharda Devi

Maihar Temple Guide

A Spiritual Journey to Maa Sharda Devi

Nestled atop Trikuta Hill in Madhya Pradesh, the Maa Sharda Devi Temple is one of India's most revered Shakti Peethas where Sati's necklace (har) fell, giving Maihar ("Mother's Necklace") its sacred name. This guide provides everything you need for your pilgrimage to this powerful spiritual destination.

Significance & Legend

  • One of the 51 Shakti Peethas where Goddess Sati's necklace fell :cite[1]
  • Associated with legendary warriors Alha and Udal who worshipped here
  • Alha performed 12 years of penance and received immortality blessing
  • Dedicated to Maa Sharda, manifestation of Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge)

Temple Access

  • Located 600 ft above ground level on Trikuta Hill
  • Two access options: 1063 steps or ropeway service
  • Ropeway timings: 7 AM - 1 PM & 1:30 PM - 7 PM
  • Road constructed to hilltop for vehicle access

Timings & Best Time

  • Opening hours: 5 AM - 9 PM daily
  • Morning darshan: 5 AM - 8 AM
  • Evening darshan: 4 PM - 9 PM
  • Best time to visit: October-March
  • Peak season: Navratri (September/October)

How to Reach Maihar Temple

By Air

  • Khajuraho Airport (HJR): 135 km
  • Jabalpur Airport: 160 km
  • Allahabad Airport: 200 km
  • Rewa Airport: 55 km

By Rail

  • Maihar Railway Station: 5 km from temple
  • Well-connected to major cities
  • During Navratri, special stops at Maihar station
  • Major junctions: Satna (36 km), Katni (55 km)

By Road

  • Well-connected via National Highways 7 and 30
  • Regular buses from Jabalpur, Satna, Rewa, Allahabad
  • Taxi services available from nearby cities
  • Parking available at temple base

Darshan & Rituals

Daily Schedule

  • Morning Aarti: 5:00 AM
  • Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM - 8:00 AM
  • Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
  • Special Chandramoulishwara Puja at night

Visitor Guidelines

  • Dress modestly (avoid shorts/sleeveless tops)
  • Remove footwear before entering temple premises
  • Maintain silence in prayer areas
  • Photography restrictions in sanctum sanctorum
  • Respect temple customs and traditions

Facilities

  • Ropeway for easy access
  • Shoe storage facilities
  • Drinking water and restrooms
  • Prasad counters
  • First aid services

Festivals & Events

Navratri

The most important festival at Maihar Temple, celebrated twice yearly (Chaitra and Sharad Navratri). Features special rituals over nine days:

  • Maha Abhishek of the Goddess
  • Laksharchana (recitation of 100,000 names)
  • Vidyaramba Puja on Navami for students
  • Chatha Chandi Yagna

Lakhs of pilgrims attend during this period

Other Celebrations

  • Ram Navami: Celebrated with special pujas and processions
  • Shivaratri: Special abhishekam of Shiva Linga
  • Vasant Panchami: Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati
  • Daily Chandramoulishwara Puja with Sphatika Lingam

Nearby Attractions

Alha Dev Mandir

Temple dedicated to the legendary warrior Alha located at the mountain base near Alha's pond

Maihar Fort

Historical fort built by Kachhwaha Rajputs offering panoramic views of the town. Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Gol Pahad (Round Hill)

Sacred hill associated with Alha and Udal's meditation and training. Offers scenic views

Badi Maai Temple

Hilltop temple dedicated to local deity Badi Maai known for protective powers

Accommodation

Near Temple

  • Hotel Sun Shine
  • Hotel Yash Palace
  • Sanskar Yatri Niwas
  • Kadambari Hotel
  • Hotel Akriti

Near Railway Station

  • Convenient for early arrivals/late departures
  • Budget-friendly options available
  • Easy access to local amenities

Tips

  • Book 2-3 months in advance for Navratri
  • Mid-range options: ₹1,200-2,500/night
  • Budget options: ₹500-1,000/night
  • Dharamshalas available for spiritual visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

How many steps are there to reach Maihar Temple?

Devotees climb 1,063 steps to reach the temple atop Trikuta Hill. The climb typically takes 45-60 minutes. For those unable to climb, a ropeway service is available.

What is the significance of Maihar as a Shakti Peeth?

Maihar is revered as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where body parts of Goddess Sati fell. According to legend, Sati's necklace (har) fell here while Lord Shiva was carrying her body, giving the place its name "Maihar" (Mother's Necklace) :cite[1].

What are the ropeway timings and cost?

The ropeway operates from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 7:00 PM daily. The current fare is ₹100 per person for a round trip. During peak seasons, expect longer waiting times.

Are there special darshan facilities?

General darshan is free. Special darshan tickets (₹50-100) allow quicker access during peak times. Senior citizens and differently-abled visitors have priority access. During Navratri, special passes are available.

What should I wear when visiting the temple?

Modest traditional attire is recommended. Men should wear dhoti/kurta or shirt with trousers. Women should wear sarees or salwar kameez. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing. Footwear must be removed before entering temple premises.

Explore More About Maihar

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Festivals & Events

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View Festivals

Sharda Chalisa English & Hindi

Sharda Chalisa: Divine stotra to the Goddess of Wisdom

Chalisa Lyrics

Maa Sharda

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