OMKARESHWAR
Attractions : Shri Omkar Mandhata Temple, Kajal Rani Cave
Omkareshwar, the sacred island, shaped like the holiest of
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 awe-inspiring in its magnificence.
What
to See
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 striking. Also intricately carved
is the stone roof of the temple. Encircling the shrine are verandaha with
columns which are carved in circles, polygons and squares.
Siddhnath Temple
A fine example of early medieval Brahminic 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 skilful use of
varied architectural modes.
Satmatrika Temples6 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 Gwalior.
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 : July to March.
Where to Stay
Holkar Guest House : Ahilyabai Charity Trust, Omkareshwar Mandir,
Forest and PWD rest Houses
A number of Dharamshalas offer accommodation with basic amenities.
