Narayani Mata

Narayani Mata Mandir is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. The temple belongs to Sain Samaj and is the only one in India of its kind. The area around the temple is semi-arid and the only source of water to the mandir is a small spring inside the temple. The temple is nestled next to the Sariska National Park and draws a large number to devotees and tourists from all over the country. One can see caste principles being followed in Narayani Mata Mandir as the priest of the mandir belongs to Meena caste and people belonging to Baniya caste are not allowed inside the temple. Also, the temple is devoted and dedicated to Sain caste.

History of Narayani Mata Mandir
As per the historical records the first sati in India took place in Narayani Mata Mandir Alwar even before Rani Sati. It is believed that Narayani after marriage was going to her in-law's place and on the way, her husband was bitten by the snake and died then and there. Narayani was in deep sorrow and prayed to Lord Shiva either to give back life to her husband or let her commit sati with her dead husband. Lord Shiva answered her prayers and the holy fire was sent to them to consume both Narayani and her husband.

The path to the temple also is full of scenic beauty, you will cross Tehla Lake on the way, on the entry of the temple find a fort-like gate. There used to be a big fair in Narayani Mata Mandir in the early ’90s but was banned by Late Mr. Rajeev Gandhi, Prime Minister of India while he was in the office. Since then many efforts have been made by the local authorities to start the fair again but so far the permission has not been granted.