Naraini Mata Temple

Getting there

• By air

  Jaipur International Airport (JAI) is the nearest airport listed for the temple. Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is also listed.

• By train

  Alwar Junction Railway Station (AWR) is the nearest railway station listed for the temple.

Why devotees come here

The ancient Naraini Mata Temple is a revered sanctuary in Alwar, Rajasthan. Its natural spring is the temple's biggest attraction, and the sanctum holds an idol of the Devi.

Popular legend says India's first sati ritual took place at this temple. Sati was a custom in which wives gave their lives after their husbands died. In the legend, a snake bit the husband to death while the couple were travelling. The wife prayed to Shiva, and holy fire was sent to consume them both. The practice is now banned in India.

The temple was built in the 11th century in the Pratihara style of architecture. A fort-like gate stands at the entrance. A marble tank called a Kund lies right in front of the temple. Hundreds of bells hang in the hall just before the sanctum, offered to the Devi by her devotees. The sanctum houses an idol of the Devi.

The natural spring is the temple's biggest attraction. It rises very close to the temple and flows into the Kund. The area is semi-arid, so the steady flow has long been a subject of intrigue. Researchers have studied its source, but there is no definite conclusion yet. Taking a dip in the water is an integral part of the visit. Today the site draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists alike.

Tips for your visit

• Devotees fill bottles with the spring water, which they consider as holy as Ganga water, to carry home.
• On the way to the temple, travellers pass Tehla Lake.
• Monkeys roam around the temple, which adds to its lively feel.
• Nearby in Alwar: Bhangarh Fort, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Siliserh Lake and Alwar City Palace.

Questions people ask