Maa Sharda Shakti Peeth Maihar Devi Temple, Jaunpur

Maa Sharda Shakti Peeth, located in Jaunpur and also known as the Maihar Devi Temple, is a famous religious site. This temple is dedicated to Maa Sharda, a form of Goddess Saraswati, who is considered the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, and music. Devotees visit this temple especially during Navratri and other festivals. The temple has several unique features. If you want to know more about this temple, read on in this article.

Located in the Parmentpur village of Jaunpur district, Uttar Pradesh, this is a prominent religious site known as Maa Sharda or Maihar Devi Temple. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sati and is considered one of the Shakti Peethas. Devotees have to climb approximately 900 steps to reach the temple, which symbolizes faith and devotion. According to local belief, the temple was constructed under the divine guidance of the goddess through a devotee’s dream, where Maa Sharda herself inspired him to build the temple. It is believed that prayers made here with a true heart are always fulfilled, and devotees offer a “kadhai” (a ceremonial offering) once their wishes are granted. The temple’s foundation day is celebrated every year on March 4th with grand festivities, attracting local devotees as well as pilgrims from distant places.

According to ancient belief, when Lord Shiva was wandering across the universe with the body of Mata Sati, her right breast fell at this location, making it a famous Shaktipeeth. Another local legend suggests that Mata Sati’s necklace fell here, which is why this place is called “Maihar,” meaning “Mother’s necklace.” Today, the temple remains bustling with devotees throughout the year, especially during Navratri, and has become a symbol of devotion. Proper arrangements for lodging and worship for visitors are also provided.

The architecture of Maa Sharda Shakti Peeth is a beautiful blend of religious devotion and traditional Indian temple design. Built in the style of ancient temples, it showcases features typical of North Indian temple architecture. The main sanctum (garbhagriha) is located on a high platform, housing the divine idol of Maa Sharda. The idol is placed in a way that devotees have a direct view upon entering the temple. The temple’s spire (shikhara) is highly attractive and reflects the Nagara style, adorned with a beautifully carved kalash, dome, and intricate motifs, giving it a divine appearance. The temple courtyard has a large assembly hall (mandap) where devotees gather for prayers, bhajans, and spiritual discourse. The open spaces around the temple allow natural light and ventilation to flow freely.

The temple is open throughout the year, but special crowds arrive during Chaitra and Sharad Navratri. On these auspicious occasions, thousands of devotees come from afar to seek blessings and fulfill their wishes. The temple is open from 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM and then from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. During special events, the timings may sometimes be extended.

Devotees offer items like chunni (veil), coconut, batasha (sugar candy), clove, cardamom, and sweets to the goddess, which are later distributed as prasad. During Navratri, special offerings are prepared, including halwa-poori, chana (chickpeas), and kheer.

The temple is accessible by road, rail, and air. Here’s how you can reach:

By Train: Jaunpur is connected via two main railway stations – Jaunpur Junction (JNU) and Jaunpur City Station (JOP), linked to major cities like Varanasi, Lucknow, Allahabad, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The temple is about 14–16 km from these stations, and you can reach by auto, taxi, or e-rickshaw.

By Bus: Located near Gosaiganj market, the temple is well-connected by road. UP Roadways (UPSRTC) and private bus services make travel from Jaunpur city convenient. The temple is around 12–14 km from the bus stand, accessible via local taxi, auto-rickshaw, or private vehicle.

By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi, approximately 70–80 km from the temple. The airport is well-connected to major cities. From the airport, a cab or taxi to Jaunpur takes about 2 hours.