During Navratri, people often flock to the shrines of the Mother Goddess to seek her blessings. If you, too, are planning to visit the temple of 'Mata Rani' (the Mother Goddess) this time, you might consider traveling to Maihar—a renowned pilgrimage site in Madhya Pradesh. This travel guide will prove to be immensely useful in helping you reach this destination.

In this article today, we will provide you with every essential detail—both big and small—regarding this sacred city of Maihar, home to Goddess Sharda and situated atop the Trikoot Hill along the banks of the Tamsa River. We will cover everything from how to reach the site and where to stay, to the specific timings for *Darshan* (viewing of the deity).

**Legends Associated with Maihar**
According to religious beliefs, when Lord Shiva was wandering across the world carrying the mortal remains of Goddess Sati, the Goddess's *'haar'* (necklace) fell at this very spot. It is precisely because the *' Mai ka Haar'* (Mother's necklace) fell here that the place gradually came to be known as 'Maihar.' This site is revered as one of the 51 *Shakti Peethas* (sacred shrines of the Goddess).

**A Connection to Alha and Udal**
It is said that Alha and Udal—the commanders of the Chandel kings—were ardent devotees of the Mother Goddess. A popular belief holds that Alha is immortal and, to this day, remains the very first person to offer worship to the Goddess each morning. Locals recount that even during the lockdown, when the temple was completely closed to the public, fresh flowers and *Prasad* (sacred offerings) were still found inside the sanctum when the doors were opened in the morning.

**Rules and Facilities for *Darshan***
To reach the temple, you must ascend a flight of 1,001 steps. Inside the *Garbhagriha* (sanctum sanctorum), devotees can have a *Darshan* of the Goddess from a distance of approximately three feet. Wheelchair facilities are available at the main entrance to assist the elderly and differently-abled visitors. Additionally, you can easily reach the hilltop by purchasing a ticket and utilizing the ropeway service.

**What Can You Carry Inside the Temple?**
You are permitted to carry only *Prasad* (sacred offerings) inside the temple premises. You may safely deposit your other belongings (such as footwear, bags, etc.) at the shops located at the base of the hill. There is no separate fee or official provision for 'VIP Darshan' at this temple; all devotees are accorded equal opportunity to seek the Goddess's blessings. Temple Darshan and Aarti Timings
Darshan Timings: From 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM (noon), and again from 2:00 PM to 7:30 PM. However, timings may be subject to change during the Navratri festival. Additionally, the Goddess rests between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM; consequently, the temple doors remain closed during this hour.

Aarti Timings
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) has its own railway station, situated between Katni and Satna. During Navratri, almost all trains passing through this route are provided with a scheduled stop at this station. The temple is located approximately 6 km from the station, from where you can easily find auto-rickshaws.

By Air: The nearest airports are Jabalpur (162 km) and Prayagraj (215 km). An airport is also currently under construction in Rewa; once completed, the distance will be reduced to a mere 62 km.

By Road: Maihar is well-connected via the National Highway (NH-30). If you are traveling in your own vehicle, excellent parking facilities are available just before the temple premises. The city also features two bus stands, from where buses are available for Satna and various other cities.

Accommodation and Dining Facilities
Hotels: Within a 6-kilometer radius of the temple, there are numerous good hotels and *Dharamshalas* (pilgrim rest houses) available for accommodation.

Food: Maihar is a holy city; therefore, you will find only pure vegetarian food here. Several restaurants serve *Sattvic* food—meals prepared without the use of onion or garlic.

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