Sharda Devi Temple, Maihar: A Climb to Divine Grace
Opening Hours
4:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Subject to change; confirm before visiting)
Best Time To Visit
October to March (Pleasant weather)
Aarti Timing
Mangala Aarti : 4:00 AM (Approximate)Sandhya Aarti : 6:00 PM (Approximate)
The Sharda Devi Temple in Maihar is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Sharda (a form of Saraswati). Located atop Trikuta Hill, reaching the temple involves a climb of over 1000 steps, rewarding devotees with breathtaking views and a profound spiritual connection.
Expectations for Pilgrims
A challenging but rewarding **climb up the steps** to reach the temple.
Experiencing the **panoramic views** from the hilltop.
Seeking the blessings of **Goddess Sharda** and experiencing the serene atmosphere.
Visiting the **Akhand Jyoti**, which burns eternally.
Sacred Offerings: Blessings from Maa Sharda
Prasad at Sharda Devi Temple typically includes sweets, flowers, and other auspicious items offered to the goddess. These are considered sacred and are consumed by devotees as a blessing.
Prasad / Prasadam :
Note : Prasad is available at stalls near the temple entrance and within the temple complex. Many local vendors sell these items for devotees to offer to the Goddess.
What to Offer: Sacred Contributions to the Divine
Devotees offer various items to Goddess Sharda as a symbol of their devotion and gratitude. These offerings are made with reverence and faith.
Devotee's Offerings
It's advisable to offer items with a pure heart and devotion. Local priests can provide guidance on the specific rituals and prayers associated with offerings.
Essential Experiences: Immersing in Maihar's Spirituality
Activities:
Visiting the Akhand Jyoti
Listening to the folklore
Offering prayers at other small shrines
Drinking water at the well
Offering prayers for deceased family members
Sacred Rituals & Pujas: Deepening Your Connection
Various pujas and rituals are performed at Sharda Devi Temple, allowing devotees to deepen their connection with the Goddess and seek her blessings.
Attending Pujas:
Non Attending Pujas:
Pujas and rituals can be arranged through the temple management or local priests. It's best to inquire in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals.
Historical Roots & Profound Meaning: Sharda Devi Temple's Ancient Legacy
The Sharda Devi Temple in Maihar is steeped in history and mythology, holding immense spiritual significance for devotees.
Royal Construction:
While the exact origins of the temple are unclear, it is believed to have been established many centuries ago. The Parmar rulers of the region are believed to have contributed to the temple's early development. Later, various other rulers and devotees contributed to its expansion and renovation.
Renovations and Expansions:
The temple has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries. In recent times, the temple has been further developed with better facilities for pilgrims, including improved pathways, resting areas, and security arrangements.
Ancient Status:
The temple is considered to be ancient, with its origins dating back several centuries. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a testament to the enduring faith of devotees. The temple's location atop the hill adds to its spiritual ambiance and historical significance.
Significance: A Paramount Spiritual Beacon
The Sharda Devi Temple in Maihar is a prominent center of faith, attracting devotees from all over India who seek blessings, spiritual solace, and fulfillment.
Key Aspects:
- A Shakti Peetha Believed to be a Shakti Peetha where a part of Goddess Sati fell, making it a highly sacred site for Shakti worshipers.
- Blessings for Knowledge and Wisdom Goddess Sharda is revered as the deity of knowledge, music, arts, and learning. Devotees seek her blessings for academic success, wisdom, and artistic talents.
- Spiritual Retreat The temple offers a serene environment for meditation, prayer, and spiritual reflection, providing solace to those seeking inner peace.
- Cultural and Historical Heritage The temple is a significant landmark showcasing the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.
- Symbol of faith The temple is a testament to unwavering faith and devotion.
- Tourist Attraction The temple and its scenic surroundings are also a popular tourist attraction.
- Peace The temple is located in a serene, peaceful environment.
- Akhand Jyoti The Akhand Jyoti burning eternally in the temple is a sign of prosperity and enlightenment.
- Pilgrimage Destination The temple is a major pilgrimage destination for the Hindus.
- Symbol of Divinity The temple is a symbolic representation of divinity.
Opening Hours
Sunday : 5:00 – 8:00 AM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Monday : 5:00 – 8:00 AM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday : 5:00 – 8:00 AM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday : 5:00 – 8:00 AM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday : 5:00 – 8:00 AM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday : 5:00 – 8:00 AM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday : 5:00 – 8:00 AM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM
User Review
Total Reviews : 12982
- Star Rating :
Author Name : Yugal Kishor Salvee
Review Time : 4 months ago
Review : Visiting Maa Sharda Temple in Maihar was truly a spiritual journey! This is the only temple in the world dedicated to Maa Sharda, where devotees climb over 1,100 steps to seek blessings. We started early in the morning, and the experience of trekking up in the cool breeze was amazing. Reaching the top just in time to witness a breathtaking sunrise added to the divine atmosphere. The panoramic view from the temple is mesmerizing, making the effort totally worth it. A must-visit for anyone seeking devotion, peace, and adventure! - Star Rating :
Author Name : Akshit Awadhiya
Review Time : a week ago
Review : "Sacred & serene! Maa Sharda Devi Temple is a must-visit for spiritual seekers. Beautiful architecture, vibrant festivals, and a haven for knowledge & wisdom seekers. 5/5 stars!" - Star Rating :
Author Name : Sandeep Srivastava
Review Time : 2 weeks ago
Review : Maa Sharda Mata Temple, Maihar
Maa Sharda Mata Temple in Maihar is a spiritually powerful and sacred place, visited by lakhs of devotees every year. The atmosphere is divine, and the overall surroundings—especially the cleanliness and water arrangements for devotees—are well maintained, which is appreciated.
However, the management of the temple needs serious improvement. The current system does not allow people to have a proper darshan (viewing) of Maa Sharda. Devotees are rushed and given very little time, which can be disappointing for those who travel long distances to seek blessings. The crowd management and behavior of the staff could be better, especially during peak hours or festive days.
One major suggestion for future visitors: if you plan to use the ropeway, book your tickets online in advance. It saves a lot of time and hassle. Without online booking, you might have to wait up to 2 hours or more in long queues.
Overall, while the temple itself is divine and facilities like cleanliness and water supply are good, better management and more respectful handling of devotees during darshan would greatly enhance the experience. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Deepak Chaudhari
Review Time : a week ago
Review : Coming by stairs are ur choice 😀 if u can climb only then. Otherwise prefer another transport. Here fills like god - Star Rating :
Author Name : Sujoy Das Andie A Yogie.
Review Time : 2 weeks ago
Review : Jai Maa Sharda .
A age old beautiful temple in the top of the hill of Maihar .
From Maihar Railway Station u can find several Sharing Auto towards Maa Maihar Temple. Cost gonna be ₹20 to ₹50 per person as acording to ur burgaining 😊
Temple open early in the morning up to 8 pm or 9 pm ( depending on the clearance of all d devotees from the temple area )
You may visit the Maihar Temple after crossing 1100+ steps from road or by Rope ways. If you select steps it will take hardly 1.30 to 2 hrs ( by enjoying the views ) & Rope ways taking 6 min approximately... ( From the road , for rope way u must purchase Up & Down both tickets at a time , & at the time of get down from the temple u may purchase the return ticket only )
Road way also available up to a certain point . So u may reserve the car too .
Temple is located in the top of the hill so , scenic beauty is more than anything else. Side by side the sounds of prayers , Mantra chantings , jaikara , 🔔 🔔 bell ringing sound & the fresh Air gonna change ur mind clum.
U can visit Maa Sarada anytime of the year but in Nab Ratri & other occasions so many devices come to worship.
So many hotels , Dharmasala are there before the temple area. Plz be careful while asking for the charges , I find that Hotel owners generally says the " Room rant / charges for 12 hrs basis "... Make it clear first .
Food quality not that much good but ok .
Better to take puja materials from ur home town , since I saw - puja materials as like - Chudnie , Sindur , Coconuts etc - RESELLING AGAIN AND AGAIN BY THE LOCAL VENDOR.
I took step as well as rope way, and I like to cross the step , & while coming I walk on the road .
Maa Sarda is the mother of Allah, Udal , tow warrior of local Tribe / Warrior community . They started the puja in this hill top . So u can visit their AKHARAs too .
Jai Maa Sarda Maiya Ki ... I just keep silent in describing about Maa Sharda , as I want u too visit and hv d bless of Maa 🙏