Omkareshwar, a peaceful town in Madhya Pradesh, is a spiritual center, especially for followers of Shiva from all across the nation. Omkareshwar, also known as the “Lord of Omkara”, is one of the Dwadasa Jyotirlinga shrines, or the 12 shrines devoted to Lord Shiva in the form of a Jyotirlinga, and is a stunning riverside pilgrimage site in Madhya Pradesh. Since the Omkareshwar temple houses the revered Jyotirlinga, countless pilgrims travel to this small village.
Along with being a famous destination for Hindu pilgrims, the town is also well-known for its magnificent “Jhula Pul” hanging bridge over the Narmada River, which leads to the Mandhata Temple. You will find a lot of breathtaking attractions in Omkareshwar. Its scenery exudes an undeniable tranquillity, and its rich cultural legacy will captivate tourists of all stripes.
Why Visit Omkareshwar Temple?
The Omkareshwar Temple is without a doubt the town’s top tourist destination. It is regarded as one of India’s most sacred shrines. This stunning building, which is one of the famed 12 Jyotirlingas in the nation, is located in Madhya Pradesh atop an island known as Mandhata. Its surroundings include the meeting of the Kaveri and Narmada rivers. The shape of the island, which resembles the holy Hindu symbol of “Om,” adds to the mystery of the region.
Uncountable numbers of pilgrims go to the shrine every year to ask for Lord Shiva’s blessings. It is a shrine for both history and archaeology enthusiasts in addition to the religious. There are about 20 shrines to gods located across the area.
Guidelines and Tips for the Journey to Omkareshwar
- The main Omkareshwar temple’s premises are off-limits to photography.
- Everywhere else on the island, photographers are free to capture whatever they want.
- While a day trip is possible, we advise staying the night to experience Shayan Arti and the morning divine.
- To get the most out of the experience, pilgrims who want to complete the Parikrama should stay two nights.
- Omkaleshwar is a highly regarded place of worship. Always respect the temple grounds by dressing appropriately, using quiet voices, and speaking quietly.
- Follow the traditions associated with Hindu temples, such as taking off your shoes before entering and dressing modestly.
- After 4:00 pm, it is prohibited to take worship materials like coconuts, flowers, etc. outside of the temple.
Omkareshwar Temple Timings
The temple is open from 5 AM to 9:30 PM. Various rites are also carried out in the temple at this time. These rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening aartis, are open to devotee participation.
The timings are as such:
Morning Darshan 5:00 AM 3:50 PM
Evening Darshan 4:15 PM 9:30 PM
Mangal Aarti 5:00 AM 5:30 AM
Jalabhishek 5:30 AM 12:25 PM
Evening Aarti 8:20 PM 9:05 PM
Attractions Around the Omkareshwar Temple
To reach the Omkareshwar Temple, one can either cross the “Jhula Pul” or take a relaxing boat trip across the Narmada to one of the temple gates. The best combination is to take the boat one way and walk back. The temple is accessible from the ghats through a flight of stairs. Before you get to the base of the temple, you will pass by several flower stands. The temple is a beautiful site to see with its complex carvings in the Nagara style of architecture and wonderfully made balconies and column sculptures. At each of the temple’s corners, strolls prove to be beautiful revelations.
The temple includes a Sabha Mandap (prayer or assembly hall), which is supported by 60 14-foot-tall towering brownstone pillars. These pillars have intricate frieze carvings and a group of figures that resemble Satyrs. They have broad shoulders and meditative foreheads. To access the Mandhata Palace’s white walls, which once belonged to the mighty Holkar dynasty, proceed in the direction of the hill behind the temple. You can also visit Mamleshwar Temple and the Narmada River.
How to Reach There Omkareshwar
Air: The closest airport to Omkareshwar is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is 83 kilometers away.
Train: The Omkareshwar Road (Mortakka) Railway Station is Omkareshwar’s railway station.
Road: Omkareshwar is connected to various areas of the state and nation by frequent bus services.
Best Time to Visit Omkareshwar Temple
The weather in Omkareshwar is tropical. It rains far less in the winter than it does in the summer. The average annual rainfall is 837mm, though the average temperature is 26.9°C. The winters are often frigid while the summers are extremely scorching.
Summer (March-May):
The summers in Omkareshwar are hot and unbearable. The location will be tiresome and quite uncomfortable for the guest. A visit during this time is not recommended due to the heavy humidity and high temperatures (up to 40 °C).
Monsoon (June-September)
Rainfall begins in June and doesn’t stop until approximately September. Since the rains tend to revitalize the entire region, this is a lovely time of year. Additionally, the weather begins to chill off and everyone begins to get ready for the winter.
Winter (December to February):
Although one might travel there from September onward till March to witness some of the significant festivals like Mahashivratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Anant Chaudas, this is by far the finest time to go. When the temperature drops to about 15 °C, it is pleasant to walk around.
Places of Interest Around Omkareshwar
If you have time, explore the fascinating locales including Sri Govinda Bhagavatpada Cave, Gauri Somnath Temple, Fanase Ghat, Siddhanath Temple, Kajal Rani Caves, and Kedareshwar Temple.
Where to Stay
There are several affordable lodging alternatives in Omkareshwar, from luxury resorts to modest hotels. Each hotel is nicely decorated and equipped with contemporary conveniences.
In Omkareshwar, some of the top hotels to stay at include:
- Shri Radhe Krishna Resort
- Hotel Devansh Palace
- Hotel Geeta Shri& Restaurant
- Hotel Aashirwad
- Hotel Om Shiva
- Prasadam Restaurant
- Maa Kanchan Guest House
Details of Omkareshwar Temple Entrance Tickets
- Entry to the Omkareshwar Temple is free.
- It is possible to get VIP tickets to skip the line.
- Open all the days
Final Words
Now am I if you plan a visit to Omkareshwar Temple, then this information will help you visit the places. Enjoy the peace and beauty of Omkareshwar.
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