Stradling the confluence of the rivers Narmada and Kaveri, the holy city of Omkareshwar houses one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas. Shaped in the form of Hindu religious symbol ‘Om’, due to the merging of two valleys and a central pool of Narmada waters, it derives its name from ‘Omkara’ which is just one other name of Lord Shiva. It has two ancient shrines- Omkareshwar and Amarkareshwar. The sacred town also boasts of architectural wonders and scenic beauty, in addition to the pilgrim sites.

The town of Omkareshwar consists of two ancient shrines- one is Omkareshwar and the other is Amarkareshwar. The holy town is situated on the meeting point of two rivers- Narmada and Kaveri. This meeting between two of the most prominent rivers of India leaves the island in the shape of Hindu symbol Om which is one of the most revered symbols by Hindus. The whole area is bounded by mountains and it makes for a very beautiful view. Kedareshwar temple is also a must-visit for all tourists here.

Places to Visit

Omkarshwar Jyothirlinga Temple

One of the holiest shrines in the whole of India, the Omkareshwar or Omkar Mandhata temple is one of the twelve revered jyothirlingas in India. The temple is situated on an island called Mandhata, located at the meeting point of the rivers Narmada and Kaveri.

The island is said to be in the shape of the Hindu ‘OM’ symbol. There are multiple temples on this island and the actual jyothirlinga is said to be in the Mamleshwar temple. This temple, apart from the religious values, also boasts of stunning architecture and houses beautiful frescos and carvings.

Kedarshwar Temple

Built in the 11th century, the Kedareshwar temple is one of the most eminent shrines in Madhya Pradesh. The religious significance of the place attracts devotees and tourists from all over the world.

Parikarma On The Island

According to Hindu mythology, a walk around any positive source of energy provides one with positive energy too. It is considered to be a sacred thing and what better way to do it than a parikrama across the entire island.

This stretch of around 8 km takes around 3 hours to complete and is not very dificult. The whole area is also very picturesque as this stretch is along the island.

Shri Ashtavinayak Mandir

Shri Ashtavinayak Mandir is known for its beautiful structure built in south Indian style. The temple has gardens on either side with an artificial fountain which makes it even more attractive. The Garden is blessed with a standing statue of Lord Shiva nearly 9 feet tall. The main chamber has eight different idols of the forms of Lord Ganesha in the walls, and a 4 feet tall Ganesha idol carved out of marble stone.

Siddhanth Temple

Located near the Omkar Mandhata temple, this 13th century temple is also an important temple here and is architecturally very interesting.

Sri Govinda Bhagavatpaada Cave

Considered very religious by the Hindus, this cave has a main hall and a small sanctum with a Shivalingam. It is believed that it was here where Shankaracharya met the great saint Govinda Bhagwatpad and he took spiritual education and his deeksha under him.It is also believed that Shankaracharya saved the town from a big flood by forcing the river water into a kamandal (small bowl), which he had placed near the mouth of the cave. He did this to also save his Guru as he was emerged into a Samadhi in the cave.

Must Try Food in Omkareshwar

1. Krishna Prasadam Indian Restaurant
2. Omkareshwar Prasadalaya
3. Khandelwal Restaurant
4. Brahman Bhojnalaya
5. Mohit Chaat House
6. Fastfood at Maa Vaishnavi Restaurant

How To Get Here

By Air

Devi Ahilyabhai Holkar Airport (Indore) is the nearest airport from Omkareshwar. From there, you could take a train, bus or car to reach Omkareshwar.

Nearest Airport: Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport (IDR) – 63 kms from Omkareshwar 

By Road

Buses are available from most nearby cities and towns to Omkareshwar.

By Train

Omkareshwar has its own railway station, known as Omkareshwar Road (Mortakka) Railway Station, which is connected to different cities and towns of India.