Omkareshwar is a sacred place to Hindus. This place is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located on Island called Mandhata in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh. Shape of this Island is OM which is the symbol of Hindus. Name of Omkareshwar came from the sound Om.
What to see in Omkareshwar:
Omkareshwar Temple: It is the major attraction of Omkareshwar. This is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is looks like Mammaleshwar Temple. Architecture of this temple is Nagara style. This temple is one of the 12 Jyothirlingas of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu beliefs Shiv Ling at Omakreshwar is made up of two parts. One half is called Omkareshwar and other part is known as Amareshwar. Lord Shiva appeared in Omkareshwar Awathara to kill Asuras. Narmada River is located near this temple. Devotees believe that taking a dip in this river will wipe off all the sins.
Siddhanath Temple: This temple is situated on Plateau in Brahminic architecture style. Huge Podium is supporting this temple. This podium is most attractive with frescos; portray elephants in different postures and carvings.
Sri Govinda Bhagvatpada Cave: In this place Sanakaracharya took his diksha and spiritual education as a sage from Sage Govind Bhagwatpad.
24 Avatars: This is the temple complex consist of both Jain and Hindu temples. It has its own style of architecture which is most attractive. During 11th century when Mahmud Ghazni attacked India several temples are destroyed.
Fanasa Ghat: This is one of the bathing ghats of Omkareshwar on the river Narmada.
What to see around Omkareshwar:
Satmatrika Temples: It is located at the place where Narmada and Kaveri Rivers confluence. This place is situated 6kms away from the Island of Omkareshwar. This was constructed in 10th century.
Kedareshwar Temple: This place is located where Kaveri and Narmada rivers confluence which is 6kms away from the Island. It is most famous for its beautiful architecture. Temple was constructed in 11th century.
Shri Omkar Mandhata Temple: This place is located where Kaveri and Narmada rivers confluence. It is one of the 12 Jyothirlingas which was constructed in Nagara Style of Architecture.
Kajal Rani Cave: This is one of the worth seeing place near Omkareswar. It is located 9kms away from Omkareshwar. In this place visitors can see long and broad stretches of the surrounding undulating Lands.
Ranmukteshwar Temple: It is located at the place where Narmada and Kaveri Rivers confluence which is 6kms away from the Island. Devotees offer Channa Dal to the deity. They believe that by doing this, unpaid debts will clear off.
Mamaleshwar Temple: It is located on the opposite side of Narmada River. It is located 10kms away from Omkareshwar. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Around this temple several other small temples of Lord Shiva are situated.
Getting to Omkareshwar: Only way to reach this place though Road. Khandwa is the nearest place to Omkareshwar. From Khandwa autos and taxis are available to reach Omkareshwar. Khandwa is well connected with road and rail stations.
Getting around Omkareshwar: Boating is the best way to visit some of the nearest places of Omkaeshwar. For some other places taxis and autos are available to reach the surrounding destinations.
Best time to visit Omkareshwar: During Mahashivaratri festival this place is most attractive. Best time to visit this place is at the time of Mahashivratri i.e between February and March. Visiting rush will be more between October to April.
Where to stay in Omkareshwar: Only budget and midrange hotels are available. These hotels provide only basic amenities. During the peak seasons it is essential to book the hotels in advance.
Where to eat in Omkareshwar: only limited restaurants are available. They will serve only vegetarian food. Famous food at this place is Pakodas, Samosa, and Puri Sabzi.