Omkareshwar Temple

Home | Indore Excursions | Omkareshwar Temple

Omkareshwar figures amongst India’s most sacred sites and pilgrimage destinations. The island’s name is derived from its an outcrop of sandstone two kilometer in length which if seen from above bears an uncanny resemblance to the symbol OM. Additionally, a revered Shivalingam located to its south has made it an abode of Lord Shiva. Situated at a distance of 77 kilometers south of Indore, the complex includes ancient shrines, ruined temples, and caves that are now inhabited by sadhus. A striking white shikhara is the latest addition to the complex, soaring above the Shree Omkar Mandhata temple. At the confluence of Rivers Kaveri and Narmada, devotees from all parts of the country visit to offer their prayers at one of the twelve Jyotirlinga in the country placed inside the temple complex.

The splendid architecture and design of the temple blends well with the naturally endowed settings of Indore to present a mesmerizing experience. Splendid carvings enhance the beauty of the temple that is built without any use of cement.

It is said that once, sage Naradar during his visit to the Vindyas, sang the praise of mount Meru to Mount Vindhya. On hearing this, Mount Vindhya prayed to Lord Siva to gain in importance. Lord Siva blessed him & appeared here as Omkareshwarar & Amaleshwarar and gave the boon of grwoing, but without hindering Siva devotees. But the Vindhyas did not stop growing, and even obstructed the sun and the moon. Sage Agasthyar subdued its growth by saying it should not grow till he gets back there. He never went back & hence the growth was arrested.The Omkareshwar temple built in the Nagara style is characterized by a lofty shikhara.

Places to see at Omkareshwar :-

Shri Omkar Mandhata: This one mile long temple complex is situated on an island upon the Narmada River. The monument is built from soft stones displaying frieze figures on the upper portions, even though the surface was suitable for a rare degree of detailed work. The stone roof of the temple also exhibits exquisite design. Polygons, circles and square verandahs with rich carvings encircle the shrine, enhancing its appearance.

24 Avtars: This comprises of a cluster of Hindu and Jain temples exhibiting characteristic carvings and design. Although these monuments were damaged during an invasion by Mohammed Ghazni in the 11th century, they somehow managed to withstand the assault and are now intact to a large extent.

Siddhanath temple: One of the few places showcasing specimens of earliest Brahmanic architecture, Siddhanath temple has captivating stone slab carvings on display.

Kajal Rani Cave: located around 9 km from Omkareshwar temples, this site is popular for the picturesque vies of Indore like the rolling fields and gently undulating landscape that presents the best of region’snatural beauty.