Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, located on Mandhata Island in the Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh. This revered pilgrimage site attracts thousands of devotees each year who seek divine blessings and immerse themselves in the spiritual energy of the Omkareshwar Mahadev Temple. This guide provides essential information about the temple, including Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple timings, location, nearby tourist attractions, and accommodation options. Nestled approximately 80 km southeast of Indore, Omkareshwar derives its name from the unique shape of its island, which resembles the sacred syllable “OM.” Also known as ‘Mandhata Parvat’ or ‘Omkar Parvat,’ this sacred town is home to the revered Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, making it a significant pilgrimage destination for Hindus.
Devotees from across the country visit Omkareshwar to offer prayers at the temple and perform rituals along the banks of the Narmada River. The spiritual aura of this place is further enhanced by Ekatma Dham, a center dedicated to the teachings of Shri Adi Shankaracharya. Ekatma Dham serves as a sanctuary for seekers, saints, and yogis, providing a tranquil space to explore the profound wisdom of Advaita Vedanta and experience inner peace. Situated at the confluence of the sacred rivers Narmada and Kaveri, Omkareshwar embodies spiritual harmony and divine energy. The presence of Ekatma Dham adds to the town’s spiritual significance, offering devotees an opportunity to connect with their inner selves and delve into the timeless teachings embedded in its rich religious heritage.
Where is Omkareshwar?
Omkareshwar is located in the Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is situated on Mandhata Island, which is shaped like the sacred symbol “Om.” This island, surrounded by the Narmada River, enhances the spiritual significance of the place.
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple Location
The temple is positioned on the southern bank of the Narmada River. It is approximately 77 km from Indore and 130 km from Ujjain, making it a convenient pilgrimage destination for devotees traveling from different parts of India.
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple Timings
Visitors should be aware of the temple timings before planning their trip. The general temple schedule is:
- Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Afternoon Break: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Aarti Timings:
- Mangala Aarti: 5:00 AM
- Sandhya Aarti: 8:00 PM
Note: Timings may vary during festivals and special occasions.
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple Nearest Railway Station
The nearest railway station to Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is Omkareshwar Road Railway Station (OM), located approximately 12 km away. Visitors can hire taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach the temple from the station. For better connectivity, Indore Junction (INDB) is the major railway station, about 77 km from Omkareshwar.
Places to Visit in Omkareshwar
Omkareshwar is a revered pilgrimage destination, deeply significant to Lord Shiva devotees. The town is home to numerous temples dedicated to the deity, each with its unique historical and spiritual importance. Here are some of the most prominent attractions in Omkareshwar:
1. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga / Omkar Mandhata Temple
The primary shrine of Omkareshwar, this temple is situated on an island shaped like the sacred ‘Om’ symbol. The name Omkareshwar means ‘Lord of Omkara’ or ‘The Om Sound.’ Also referred to as the Omkar Mandhata Temple, the shrine showcases exquisite North Indian architecture, with a towering Shikhar (dome) made from layered stone.
The sanctum sanctorum, built in an ancient architectural style, exudes a divine aura. Within the temple complex stands a grand assembly hall, rising 14 feet high and supported by 60 intricately carved pillars. This five-storeyed temple houses multiple deities, including Shri Omkareshwar, Shri Mahakaleshwar, Shri Siddhanath, and Shri Gupteshwar.
2. Mamleshwar Temple
Also known as Amreshwar Temple, Mamleshwar Jyotirlinga is located on the mainland along the southern bank of the Narmada River. The name Mamleshwar means ‘Lord of Immortals.’ According to legend, Mamleshwar and Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga are two manifestations of the same sacred entity. The temple is adorned with exquisite carvings on its stone walls, reflecting the grandeur of ancient Indian architecture.
3. Siddhanath Temple
A stunning 13th-century architectural marvel, Siddhanath Temple represents early medieval Brahminic artistry. The temple’s intricately carved pillars and walls narrate its spiritual and cultural significance. Among its remarkable stone carvings is a fresco of an elephant, sculpted with extraordinary detail at a height of approximately 1.5 meters. Though partially in ruins, the temple remains a significant attraction for devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
4. Gauri Somnath Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the Gauri Somnath Temple is reminiscent of the renowned Khajuraho temples. Built in the 11th century by the Parmar dynasty, the temple follows the distinctive Bhumij architectural style. The sanctum houses a striking 6-foot Shiva Linga made of black stone. Protected by the state archaeology department, the temple was later reconstructed by the Marathas and stands as a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship.
5. Kedareshwar Temple
Located about 4 km from the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, the Kedareshwar Temple is a magnificent 11th-century structure. Perched at the confluence of the Narmada and Kaveri rivers, this temple is dedicated to Lord Kedar. Its architectural design closely resembles that of the Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees.
6. Govinda Bhagavatpada Caves
One of Omkareshwar’s most spiritually significant sites, the Govinda Bhagavatpada Caves hold a deep historical connection to Adi Shankaracharya. It was within these caves that he attained enlightenment under the guidance of his guru, Govinda Bhagavatpada. This transformative moment led to the foundation of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy, which continues to inspire seekers and scholars worldwide.
Best Time to Visit Omkareshwar
Omkareshwar experiences a surge of pilgrims during the sacred month of Sawan (July-August), which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees from all over the country visit the revered Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, offering prayers and taking a holy dip in the sacred Narmada River to seek divine blessings.
For a more comfortable visit, the ideal time to explore Omkareshwar is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. The winter season brings a cool and refreshing atmosphere, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and temple visits. Summers, on the other hand, can be quite hot and less favorable for travel.
How to Reach Omkareshwar?
Omkareshwar is well-connected to major cities like Indore and Ujjain, offering convenient travel options by air, rail, and road.
- By Air:
The nearest airport to Omkareshwar is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore (IDR), located about 87 km away. From the airport, travelers can hire taxis or take buses to reach Omkareshwar. - By Rail:
Omkareshwar does not have a direct railway station, but the closest broad-gauge railway stations are:- Khandwa Railway Station (77 km) – Well-connected to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bhopal.
- Indore Junction (78 km) – Offers good rail connectivity to various parts of India.
From these stations, taxis and buses are readily available to reach Omkareshwar.
- Khandwa Railway Station (77 km) – Well-connected to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bhopal.
- By Road:
Omkareshwar is well-connected by a network of roads, making road travel a convenient option.- From Indore (80 km) – Regular buses and taxis operate between Indore and Omkareshwar.
- From Ujjain (140 km) – Buses and cabs are available for a comfortable journey.
- From Khandwa (77 km) – A well-maintained road route allows smooth travel.
- From Indore (80 km) – Regular buses and taxis operate between Indore and Omkareshwar.
Best Places to Stay In Omkareshwar
Omkareshwar provides a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you seek a comfortable hotel, a scenic riverside resort, or a peaceful ashram, there are several excellent choices for your stay. Here are some of the top places to consider:
1. MP Tourism Narmada Resort
Operated by Madhya Pradesh Tourism, Narmada Resort is one of the best accommodations in Omkareshwar. This government-run guesthouse is well-maintained and offers modern amenities along with breathtaking views of the Narmada River. The serene ambiance makes it an ideal choice for both tourists and pilgrims. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, delicious local cuisine at the in-house restaurant, and easy access to the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
- Location: Near Omkareshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh
- Facilities: Well-furnished rooms, restaurant, river views, parking, and 24-hour security
- Best for: Families, couples, and devotees looking for a comfortable and scenic stay
2. Gajanand Ashram
For those seeking a peaceful and spiritual stay, Gajanand Ashram is a great choice. This ashram provides a serene environment perfect for meditation and introspection. It caters primarily to spiritual seekers and pilgrims who wish to immerse themselves in Omkareshwar’s divine energy. The ashram follows a simple yet disciplined lifestyle and offers basic accommodation facilities.
- Location: Close to the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
- Facilities: Simple rooms, vegetarian meals, meditation halls, and a peaceful atmosphere
- Best for: Spiritual seekers, devotees, and those looking for a calm and budget-friendly stay
3. Hotel Om Shiva
A budget-friendly option, Hotel Om Shiva offers essential facilities for a comfortable stay without overspending. The hotel provides clean rooms, 24-hour room service, and easy access to Omkareshwar’s major temples and tourist attractions. It is a good choice for travelers looking for affordability with basic conveniences.
- Location: Near Omkareshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh
- Facilities: Basic rooms, room service, free Wi-Fi, and parking
- Best for: Budget travelers, solo pilgrims, and short stays
4. Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan
Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan is an excellent accommodation choice for pilgrims visiting Omkareshwar. It is a well-maintained lodging facility that provides clean and affordable rooms to devotees. Managed by the Shri Gajanan Maharaj Trust, the place follows a spiritual and disciplined atmosphere, making it ideal for those who want to stay in a peaceful religious environment.
- Location: Near Omkareshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh
- Facilities: Affordable rooms, simple vegetarian meals, a spiritual ambiance, and easy temple access
- Best for: Pilgrims, religious travelers, and budget-conscious visitors
Conclusion
A visit to Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is a spiritually enriching experience. From its sacred Jyotirlinga to the scenic beauty of Mandhata Island, this holy site is a must-visit for devotees of Lord Shiva. Whether you are seeking divine blessings or exploring the Omkareshwar tourist places, this guide ensures you have all the necessary information for a memorable trip.
one of the famous temple omkareshwar