In the Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, India, Omkareshwar is a well-known pilgrimage destination situated on Mandhata Island in the Narmada River. The island is a spiritually significant place because of its form, which is similar to the Om (ॐ) symbol, which is a holy syllable in Hinduism. Here, Lord Shiva is revered as Omkareshwar (“Lord of Om”) and Mamleshwar, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.
Table of Contents
History of the temple
Historical Importance
Ancient Period: According to the Skanda Purana and other ancient writings, the temple’s beginnings are said to have occurred before the Vedic era.
It was a significant hub for Shaivism, the religion that worships Lord Shiva.
Dynastic Contributions: The Mauryas, Guptas, and subsequently the Paramaras of Malwa were among the kings and dynasties that supported the temple.
Over the years, these kings added architectural elements to the temple and helped with its development and upkeep.
Medieval Era: Omkareshwar rose to prominence as a pilgrimage destination during this time, drawing followers from all around India.
Adi Shankaracharya is also credited with having visited the location, where he is reported to have discussed and disseminated the Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
Maratha Era: During the Maratha era, especially under the Holkars of Indore, the temple saw extensive repairs and donations.
Architectural
The temple’s elaborate carvings and tall spire (Shikhara) make it a superb example of Nagara-style architecture. The temple, which was built using sandstone that could be found nearby, is decorated with sculptures of gods, heavenly creatures, and scenes by knowledge.
The Shiva Linga, the center of worship, is kept in the sanctuary.
The temple’s architectural appeal is further enhanced by a stunning stone Sabha Mandapam (assembly hall) held up by elaborately carved pillars.
Omkareshwar Visiting Places
1. Mamleshwar Temple
On the mainland, across from the Omkareshwar Temple on Mandhata Island, and divided by the Narmada River, lies the Mamleshwar Temple, also called Amareshwar Temple. Since it is thought to include a portion of the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, this temple has great religious importance and is an essential component of the local spiritual experience.
1. Ancient Architecture
The temple features beautiful construction in the Nagara style.
It is made of finely carved stones and has exquisite carvings of gods, heavenly creatures, and legendary scenes.
Smaller shrines honoring different Hindu deities make up the temple complex.
2. The Sacred Connection to Jyotirlinga
The Omkareshwar Temple and Mamleshwar are regarded as having equal spiritual significance.
It is customary to visit both temples in order to complete the Jyotirlinga pilgrimage.
3. Historical Importance
Ancient texts like the Skanda Purana mention the temple, which is thought to be older than the Omkareshwar Temple.
It is believed to have been constructed in the Mauryan period and subsequently restored by the Paramaras and other kingdoms.
2. Mandhata Palace
Situated on the revered Mandhata Island in the Narmada River, the Mandhata Palace is a historic building with strong connections to Omkareshwar’s spiritual and cultural legacy. A reminder of the island’s rich past and significance in Hindu, this palace is connected to the mythical King Mandhata.
Architectural Style
The palace blends elegance and simplicity with traditional Rajput and Maratha architectural elements.
Constructed on a raised platform, the palace provides sweeping views of the island’s natural splendor, the Narmada River, and the nearby temples.
Its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings and traditional themes that highlight the period’s artistry.
Religion Importance
King Mandhata, a revered monarch described in Hindu texts, is honored by the palace’s name.
Legend has it that the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga appeared on this island as a result of King Mandhata’s severe penance.
It is said that in the past, the palace served as a royal dwelling.
Spiritual Bonding
The palace, which is near the Omkareshwar Temple, is spiritually significant to devotees because they connect it to King Mandhata’s worship of Lord Shiva.
It is frequently a part of Omkareshwar’s pilgrimage circuit.Beautiful Sceneries
The palace is a tranquil haven for guests, providing them with stunning views of the Narmada River and the surrounding hills.
The calm surroundings enhance Omkareshwar’s spiritual atmosphere.
3. Omkareshwar Parikrama
A 6-kilometer circumambulation (pradakshina) around the revered Mandhata Island in the Narmada River is known as the Omkareshwar Parikrama. The Parikrama is a significant ceremony for followers of Lord Shiva because of the island’s inherent form, which resembles the Om (ॐ) symbol, adding to its spiritual importance.
Route For Parikrama:-
The Parikrama path passes by several places of worship and natural beauty:
1. The beginning
Before beginning the circumambulation, worshipers seek blessings at the Omkareshwar Temple.
2. Temples Along the Way
Gauri Somnath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple has elaborate sculptures and a distinctive linga.
Kajal Rani Cave: A tranquil haven linked to meditation-related activities.
Rin Mukteshwar Temple: A revered location where followers seek forgiveness for their financial and spiritual obligations.
3. Beauty in Scenic
Views of the Narmada River: The walk is accompanied by the serene waters of the river, which provide beautiful scenery.
Verdant Hills: The trip is revitalizing and peaceful due to the lush vegetation and rocky landscape.
4. Shrines and Ashrams
Along the way, there are several little shrines and ashrams where followers can meditate or carry out rituals.
Omkareshwar Temple Timing
The Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Madhya Pradesh operates daily with specific timings for various rituals and darshan (viewing of the deity). The general schedule is as follows:
- Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM to 3:50 PM
- Evening Darshan: 4:15 PM to 9:30 PM
The temple conducts several rituals throughout the day:
- Mangal Aarti: 5:00 AM to 5:30 AM
- Jalabhishek (ritualistic bathing of the deity): 5:30 AM to 12:25 PM and 1:15 PM to 3:50 PM
- Madhyanha Bhog (midday offering): 12:25 PM to 1:15 PM
- Shayan Aarti (nightly ritual): 8:20 PM to 9:05 PM
- Shayan Darshan: 9:05 PM to 9:35 PM
Please note that these timings are subject to change during festivals and special occasions. It’s advisable to check the official temple website or contact the temple authorities for the most up-to-date information.
How to Reach Omkareshwar Temple
1. By Air:- evi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore (about 80 miles from Omkareshwar), is the closest airport.
Connectivity: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other important Indian cities are all easily accessible from Indore.
Transportation from the Airport: From Indore to Omkareshwar, taxis and buses are offered.
2. By Train:- Omkareshwar Road Station, which is around 12 kilometers from the temple, is the closest railway station. situated along the railway line between Ratlam and Khandwa.
Important Railway Hub: Indore Junction, around 80 km distant, provides improved access to Indian cities.
Transportation from Station: The temple may be reached by local buses, taxis, and autorickshaws.
3. By Road:- From Indore: It takes around two hours to go 80 kilometers by road from Omkareshwar to Indore.
About 146 kilometers (about 4 hours) by car from Ujjain.
About 70 kilometers (about 1.5 hours) from Khandwa.
Buses: Private and state-run buses regularly leave from big cities like Khandwa, Ujjain, and Indore.
Taxis: Both shared and private taxis are readily accessible.
4. Local Transportation to the Temple
Mandhata Island is the location of the temple, which may be reached by:
Bridges: The mainland and the island are connected via a pedestrian bridge.
Boats: Available for a ride across the Narmada River that is both spectacular and spiritual.
Walking: As part of their trip, many devotees choose to walk.
How to Reach Omkareshwar to Ujjain:-
Read about Ujjain – Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple Click Here
To travel from Omkareshwar to Ujjain, you have several options, as detailed below:
1. Omkareshwar to Ujjain Distance – By Road (Approx. 140-150 km)
- Private Vehicle/Taxi:
- Distance: ~140 km
- Time: Around 3 to 4 hours.
- Route: Omkareshwar → Barwaha → Sanawad → Ujjain via NH47.
- Taxis are easily available for hire near the temple area.
- Bus:
- State-run and private buses are available from Omkareshwar to Ujjain.
- Duration: Around 4 to 5 hours.
- Check with local operators for schedules as direct buses may be limited.
2. By Train
- The nearest railway station to Omkareshwar is Omkareshwar Road (OMKR), located ~12 km from the temple. However, it has limited train options.
- If no direct train is available, travel to Khandwa Junction (KNW) (70 km from Omkareshwar) or Indore Junction (INDB) (80 km from Omkareshwar) for better connectivity.
- From these stations, take a train to Ujjain Junction (UJN).
- From Omkareshwar Road: 4-6 hours.
- From Indore/Khandwa: 2-4 hours.
3. By Combination of Road and Train
- Travel by road to Indore (80 km from Omkareshwar) or Barwaha and then take a train or bus to Ujjain. Indore and Ujjain are well connected.
4. By Air
- The nearest airport to Omkareshwar is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore (IDR).
- From the airport, take a cab or bus to Ujjain (55 km from Indore).
Recommended Route:
- Shortest and Most Convenient: Take a taxi or private vehicle via NH47.
- Budget-Friendly: Take a bus directly if available or travel to Indore for better options.