During Navratri, people often visit the shrine of the Mother Goddess. If you are also planning to visit the Mata Rani temple this time, you can visit Maihar, a famous pilgrimage site in Madhya Pradesh. This tour guide will be very helpful in getting there.
Today in this article, we will tell you every small and big information related to this holy city of Maa Sharda situated on Trikuta Mountain on the banks of river Tamsa, how to reach, where to stay and the time of darshan.
Beliefs related to Maihar
According to religious beliefs, when Lord Shiva was wandering the world with the body of Sati, the goddess’s “necklace” fell at this spot. Because of this “necklace,” the place gradually became known as “Maihar.” It is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.
There is also a connection with Alha-Udal
It is said that Alha and Udal, the generals of the Chandela kings, were ardent devotees of the Mother Goddess. It is believed that Alha is immortal and is still the first to worship the Mother Goddess. Locals say that even during the lockdown, when the temple was completely closed, fresh flowers and offerings were found inside when the doors opened in the morning.
Rules and facilities related to darshan
To reach the temple, you must climb 1001 steps. In the sanctum sanctorum, you can view the Mother Goddess from a distance of approximately 3 feet. Wheelchairs are available at the main entrance for the elderly and disabled. Alternatively, you can easily reach the top via a ticketed ropeway.
What can be taken to the temple?
You can only take offerings inside the temple. Other belongings (such as shoes, bags, etc.) can be safely stored in the shops below. There is no separate fee or official arrangement for VIP darshan. All devotees have equal access to darshan.
Darshan and Aarti timings in the temple
Darshan Hours: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM and then from 2:00 PM to 7:30 PM. However, the timings may change during Navratri. The Goddess rests from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, so the temple doors remain closed during this time.
What time is the Aarti performed?
- Morning Aarti: 5:30 AM
- Afternoon Aarti: 12:00 PM
- Evening Aarti: 7:30 PM
How to reach Maihar?
- The easiest way to reach here is by train: Maihar (station code: MYR) itself is a railway station, located between Katni and Satna. During Navratri, almost all trains passing through the temple stop here. The temple is about 6 km from the station, and autos are readily available.
- By Air: The nearest airports are Jabalpur (162 km) and Prayagraj (215 km). An airport is also being built in Rewa, which upon completion will reduce the distance to just 62 km.
- By Road: Maihar is connected by National Highway (NH-30). If you are arriving by your own vehicle, there is good parking available before the temple. The city also has two bus stands, which provide buses to Satna and other cities.
Accommodation and food arrangements
- Hotels: There are many good hotels and dharamshalas for stay within 6 km radius of the temple.
- Food: Maihar is a holy city, so you’ll find only pure vegetarian food here. There are also several restaurants that serve sattvik meals without onion or garlic.
