Darshan

The Darshan timings are from 6.00 AM to 8.30 PM everyday. A half an hour Bhog (lunch break) is observed at 12.00 PM, during which the entry is restricted. During the normal days one can go inside the Mandir and come back after Darshan in about half an hour. But in the times of Navratras, this can take a while to have a Darshan because of the sheer numbers of devotees visiting round the clock. Remember, Darshan is free for everyone.

So, if you visit the Mandir during the Navratras, please reserve ample time for Darshan. In addition to Darshan you can also observe and participate in the special events organised by the Trust in the Navratras. During Navratras Mandir is open for Darshan till 12.00 AM midnight.

The main Temple is half a kilometre off the Bilaspur-Ambikapur highway. Along the way, you'll see a horde of small shops selling the puja-saamagri for Devi archana. You can buy various types of packages from just a small naariyal-agarbatti (coconut and incense sticks) package to extensive Maata-shringaar (Full decorative paraphernalia for Devi) packages. Or, you can opt for selecting items individually.

When done, go to the free shoe-care stall run by the Trust. Please remove your shoes at the stall before Darshan. You'll be given a token for the set of your shoes. The caretaker will take care of your shoes till you come back after Darshan.

Along the way to the main Temple campus is a water tap. Please cleanse your feet, face, hands and mouth before entering the Temple. This ritual is not mandatory, but is followed for the sake of sanctity and cleanliness of the Temple campus.

You might be required to stand in queue for Darshan, depending on the time of day/year you visit the Temple. Especially, in Navratras, waiting for Darshan can take its toll. But, then, when you have come a long way to get Devi's blessings, it's a small discomfort in comparison. Isn't it?

Note: The upcoming Chaitra Navratras will begin Monday, April 7, 2008 and continue till Monday, April 14, 2008.