Maihar is a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable blend of spirituality and natural beauty. Known for its iconic Sharda Devi Temple, perched atop a hill, Maihar draws pilgrims and tourists alike who seek both divine blessings and a peaceful retreat. The journey to the temple, with its 1,063 steps, offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and lush green valleys. But Maihar is more than just a spiritual destination—it’s a place where culture, tradition, and nature intertwine, creating a serene atmosphere that captivates every visitor. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace or a scenic escape, Maihar promises an experience that will linger in your heart long after you leave.
1. Maa Sharda Devi Temple
Maa Sharda Devi Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Dedicated to Maa Sharda, the Goddess of knowledge and wisdom, this ancient temple holds immense spiritual significance. Pilgrims from all over the world embark on a sacred journey, climbing 1,063 steps that lead to the temple, offering a mesmerizing view of the surrounding hills and forests. The temple’s serene and tranquil atmosphere is believed to provide divine blessings and inner peace. Rich in both history and legend, it is said that Maa Sharda’s idol was originally installed by the revered sage, Adi Shankaracharya, further enhancing the temple’s spiritual aura.
Location : The Maa Sharda Devi Temple is situated in Maihar, a town in the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh, India.
Timing :The Maa Sharda Devi Temple in Maihar is open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM – 8:00 AM
- Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Ropeway Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Afternoon Break: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM (Ropeway unavailable)
Entry Fee : The Maa Sharda Devi Temple in Maihar does not charge an entry fee for darshan.
2. Trikuta Hill
Trikuta Hill, rising approximately 600 feet above sea level, is the sacred summit that cradles the revered Maa Sharda Devi Temple in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh. Surrounded by natural beauty and a serene atmosphere, this hill holds immense spiritual significance and is a major pilgrimage destination for devotees of the Goddess Sharda, a form of Saraswati. The hill is not only a symbol of devotion but also a place of peace and reflection, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Pilgrims can reach the temple either by climbing 1,063 steps or taking the convenient ropeway ride that offers breathtaking views of the lush landscape.
Location : Trikuta Hill is a prominent hill located in Maihar, a town in the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh, India.
Timing : Trikuta Hill and Maa Sharda Devi Temple are open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Darshan Timings:
Morning – 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM
Evening – 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM - Ropeway Hours:
7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 7:00 PM (Closed 1:00–1:30 PM for lunch)
Entry Fee : The Maa Sharda Devi Temple atop Trikuta Hill in Maihar does not charge any entry fee for devotees.
3. Maihar Fort
Maihar Fort, also known as the Maihar Heritage Palace, is a historic landmark situated in the heart of Maihar, Madhya Pradesh. This fort served as the royal residence of the rulers of the former Maihar State, a princely state established in 1778 by Beni Singh, a minister under the Raja of Panna. The fort’s architecture reflects the grandeur of its era and offers panoramic views of the surrounding region. Today, the fort has been converted into a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to experience its historical ambiance firsthand.
Location : Maihar Fort, also known as the Maihar Heritage Palace, is a historic landmark situated in the town of Maihar, within the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh, India.
Timing : it is advisable to plan your visit during daylight hours, typically between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee : The Maihar Fort, also known as the Maihar Heritage Palace, charges an entry fee of ₹50 per person for visitors.
4. Bada Akhara Mandir
Bada Akhara Mandir is a sacred and serene Shiva temple nestled in the Patehra area of Maihar, Madhya Pradesh. Known for its towering Shivlinga atop the temple and the presence of 108 smaller Shivlingas, this temple is a major spiritual center for devotees of Lord Shiva. Surrounded by hills and lush greenery, it offers a peaceful retreat for prayer, meditation, and reflection. The temple complex also features shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesh and Ram Janaki, enhancing its spiritual significance.
Location : It is a historic Shiva temple located in the Patehra area of Maihar, Madhya Pradesh.
Timing : Bada Akhara Mandir in Maihar is open daily from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
Entry fee : There is no entry fee to visit the temple, making it accessible to all devotees and visitors.
5. Art Ichol
Art Ichol is a tranquil artistic retreat nestled in the village of Ichol, near Maihar in Madhya Pradesh. Established by art gallery owner Ambica Beri, it serves as a creative sanctuary for artists, writers, and sculptors, offering a space to collaborate and envision concepts under open skies. The retreat is set amidst fields of mustard and sugarcane, providing a serene environment conducive to creativity and reflection.
Location : Art Ichol is located in Ichol village, near Maihar, Madhya Pradesh. It is approximately 8 km from the Maihar Railway Station.
Timing : It is advisable to plan your visit during daylight hours, typically between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee : There is an entry fee of ₹50 to visit Art Ichol.
Famous Food In Maihar
1. Kachori-Sabzi
Kachori-Sabzi is a beloved breakfast and street food combo in Maihar and across Madhya Pradesh. Crispy, golden kachoris paired with spicy, flavorful potato curry (sabzi) make for a satisfying and affordable local delicacy. It’s often enjoyed with a cup of hot chai, especially in the morning or as an evening snack.
Ingredients : Maida, Moong dal, Potatoes, ghee, and Spices
2. Poha-Jalebi
Poha-Jalebi is a classic and beloved breakfast combination in Maihar and across Madhya Pradesh. It beautifully balances savory and sweet flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This combo brings together light, spiced poha (flattened rice) with crispy, syrup-soaked jalebi, served hot and fresh in almost every local eatery in Maihar during the morning hours.
Ingredients : Poha, onion, boiled potatoes, green chili, sugar, maida, corn flour, and spices
3. Dal Bafla
Dal Bafla is a traditional and hearty dish from Madhya Pradesh, especially popular in places like Maihar, Indore, and Ujjain. It’s quite similar to Rajasthan’s Dal Baati, but with a distinct soft texture and method of preparation. Locals love it for its rich taste, satisfying nature, and cultural roots.
Ingredients : wheat flour, ghee, toor dal, moong dal, ghee and Spices
4. Samosa
Samosa is one of the most iconic and widely loved snacks across India, and in Maihar, it’s a go-to treat enjoyed with morning chai or as a quick bite from a street vendor. A golden, crispy triangle filled with spicy mashed potatoes and peas, samosas are a staple in the street food culture of Maihar. Whether you’re visiting a temple or roaming the markets, you’re never far from a samosa stall sizzling with fresh batches.
Ingredients : Maida, boiled Potatoes, green peas, oil, and Spices
