Omkareshwar, the sacred, island, shaped like the holiest of all Hindu symbols, 'Om' has drawn hundreds of generations of pilgrims. Here, at the confluence of the rivers narmada and Kaveri, the devout have gathered to kneel before the jyotirlinga (one of the twelve throughout India) at the temple of Shri Omkar Mandhata. And here, as in so many of Madhya Pradesh's sacred shrines, the works of Nature complement those of man to provide a setting aweinspiring in its magnificence.

Legend behind Omkareshwar Temple
Shiva Purana describes the greatness of Omkareshwar and Mammaleshwar. It says, two sons of the sun dynasty Mandhata - Ambarish and Mucchkund practiced severe penance and austerities here and pleased Lord Shiva. They also performed great religious sacrifices in this place because of which the mountain is named Mandhata.

Another popular legend says that once upon a time Vidhya Parvat practiced severe penance and worshipped Parthivarchana along with Lord Omkareshwar for nearly six months. As a result Lord Shiva was pleased and blessed him with the desire boon. On the sincere request of all the gods and the sages Lord Shiva made two parts of the lings. One half being Omkareshwara and the other Amaleshwara or Amareshwar.

Some scholar say, King Mandhatha of the Ishvaku clan is believed to have worshipped Shiva here. Besides, Govinda Bhagavatpaada, the Guru of Shankaracharya is believed to have lived in a cave here.

Photos of Omkareshwar

Places to visit

Shri Omkar Mandhata :
The temple stands on a one mile long. Half mile wide island formed by the fork of the Narmada. The soft stone of which it was constructed has lent its pliable surface to a rare degree of detailed work, of which the frieze figures on the upper portion is the most strking. Also intricately carved is the stone roof of the temple. Encircling the shrine are verandahs with columns which are carved in circles, polygons and squares.

Siddnath Temple :
A fine example of early medieval Brahiminic architecture. Its unique feature is a frieze of elephants carved upon a stone slab at its outer perimeter.

24 Avatars :
A cluster of Hindu and Jain temples, remarkable for their skillful use of varied architectural modes.

Satmatrika Temples :
6 km from Omkareshwar, a group of 10th century temples.

Kajal Rani Cave :
9 km from Omkareshwar, this is a particularly picturesque scenic spot, with a panoramic view of the broad acres and gently undulating landscape that stretches in unbroken harmony till the horizon.

How to reach

By Air :
The nearest airport is Indore (77 km), connected by regular flights with Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal and Gwolior.

By Rail :
Nearest railhead is Omkareshwar Road (12 km) on the Ratlam-khandwa section of the Western Railway.

By Road :
Omkareshwar is connected to Indore, Ujjain, Khandwa and Omkareshwar Road by regular bus services.

Best Season to Visit :
July to March

Click here for Map of Omkareshwar

Accommodation in Omkareshwar

Narmada Resort
Tel: (07280) 271455
E-mail:omkareshwar@mptourism.com