omkareshwar

Location: 77 kms. From Indore
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.

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 is verandah with columns, which are carved in circles, polygons, and squares.

Siddhnath Temple: A fine example of early medieval Brahmin 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 Temples: 6 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.