The Maa Sharda Devi Temple, located in the Maihar district of Madhya Pradesh, becomes a major attraction for devotees during Navratri. Situated atop Trikoot Hill, this Shaktipeeth is one of the 108 Shaktipeeths and holds religious significance due to the belief that Goddess Sati's necklace fell here. Devotees can seek darshan of the Goddess by climbing 1080 steps or using the ropeway.
Maa Sharda Devi Temple: The Maa Sharda Devi Temple, situated in the Maihar district of Madhya Pradesh, becomes a special attraction for devotees during Navratri. This temple is located on the peak of Trikoot Hill and is included among the 108 Shaktipeeths, where it is believed that Goddess Sati's necklace fell. Devotees here climb 1080 steps or use the ropeway facility to have darshan of the Goddess. During the nine days of Navratri, devotees from across the country visit this temple, making it a prominent center of devotion and faith.
Center of Faith and Belief
This Maa Sharda Devi Temple, located on the peak of Trikoot Hill in the Maihar district of Madhya Pradesh, holds special significance in the Sanatan tradition. Goddess Sharda is considered the deity of learning, knowledge, and wisdom, and devotees believe that whoever worships her with a true heart and complete devotion has all their wishes fulfilled, leading to a life filled with happiness and prosperity.
This temple is one of the 108 Shaktipeeths. According to legend, Goddess Sati's necklace fell at this very spot. This is why the place is called ‘Maihar’, which means ‘Mother’s Necklace’. Besides its religious significance, the natural beauty of the temple also greatly attracts devotees. Surrounded by dense forests and mountainous regions, this place offers a sacred and peaceful atmosphere, allowing devotees to experience spiritual tranquility.
How to Reach the Temple
The Maihar Devi Temple is situated on the peak of Trikoot Hill. To reach the temple, devotees have to climb 1080 steps. This journey is not only physically challenging but also offers a sacred experience of faith and devotion. Many devotees undertake this journey as a spiritual penance, feeling devotion and faith with every step.
For devotees who are unable to climb the stairs, a ropeway facility is available. The fare for this facility is approximately ₹170, and it helps devotees reach the temple comfortably and quickly. Additionally, the temple is located 6 to 12 kilometers from Maihar Railway Station. Transport services like auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available from the station, allowing devotees of all ages to have darshan of the Mother Goddess.
Temple's Features
Maa Sharda Devi, who is considered an incarnation of Goddess Saraswati, is the deity of learning and knowledge. The temple is not only a center of faith but also renowned as a sacred pilgrimage site. Here, devotees have a wonderful experience of a spiritual journey. During Navratri, the crowd of devotees is so immense that the temple's atmosphere becomes exceptionally enthusiastic and devotional.
Several religious events and bhajan-kirtans (devotional singing) take place within the temple complex, immersing devotees in the devotion of the Goddess. The priests and temple staff here ensure the comfort of the devotees. The sacred valleys and natural beauty surrounding the temple further enrich the devotees' experience.
Crowd of Devotees During Navratri
From the very first day of Navratri, a deluge of devotees starts moving towards the temple. Millions of devotees from across the country arrive here to seek darshan and blessings of the Mother Goddess. Despite the difficulties in reaching the temple and the crowds, the enthusiasm and devotion of the devotees are extraordinary. As every year, a massive crowd is expected at the temple this time as well.
Devotees adorn themselves in traditional attire and worship the Goddess with flowers, turmeric, saffron, and other puja materials. Various devotional programs are organized during the nine days of Navratri, in which devotees participate to gain spiritual experience.
Spiritual Significance of the Temple
This Shaktipeeth of Maihar Devi is extremely important from a religious perspective. This temple is not just a place of worship, but also a center of inner peace and spiritual energy for devotees. Worship of Maa Sharda leads to an increase in knowledge, learning, and wisdom. Devotees believe that worship performed here with a true heart brings success, prosperity, and peace to life.
The temple complex and its surrounding natural environment also allow devotees to experience spiritual energy. Filled with mountains, greenery, and tranquility, this place provides peace to the minds and souls of devotees.
Travel Facilities
Various facilities are provided to devotees for their temple visit. Besides the ropeway, hotels, dharamshalas (lodges), and eateries are available around the temple for accommodation. Travelers and devotees can avail these facilities for a comfortable journey. The temple administration also pays special attention to cleanliness and security for the devotees.
