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Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Info, Facts and Travel Guide!

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the twelve famous Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. This place is famous because of the story that Lord Shiva appeared in the Om shape here. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the major tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh. Today, you will get complete information about Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, including its history, facts, and travel guide.

Contents: 

1. About Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga 
2. The History of Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga 
3. How to reach Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga 
4. Some suggestions before going to Shri Omkareshwar Temple
5. Amazing Facts about Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga 
6. Overall Budget of the Travel
7. FAQs

About Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga 

Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, located on the island of Mandhata in the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh, India, is one of the twelve  Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is unique because it is said to exist in two forms – Omkareshwar (Om-shaped) and Mamleshwar (also called Amareshwar) on the southern bank of the Narmada River. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya visited this temple and settled the Shankaracharya tradition. The Omkareshwar temple is built in Nagara-style architecture.  Omkareshwar is situated about 80 km from Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It is accessible by road, and regular buses and taxis are available from Indore and nearby towns. This temple attracts thousands of Lord Shiva devotees every year and crowd reaches its peak during festival seasons. 

The History of Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga 

The Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is unique as it is believed to exist in two forms: Omkareshwar on the Mandhata island and Mamleshwar (also called Amareshwar) on the southern bank of the Narmada River. The island is named after King Mandhata of the Ikshvaku dynasty. It is said that the island’s natural shape resembles the Hindu symbol 'Om,' and the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is mentioned in some ancient texts such as the Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana, and Linga Purana. Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have visited Omkareshwar and established the Shankaracharya tradition. The Paramara kings, who ruled Malwa and surrounding regions, were known for their funding of Hindu temples. They contributed to the development and renovation of the Omkareshwar temple. In the 18th century, the Maratha rulers, mainly Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, played a major role in the temple’s restoration and expansion. 

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How to reach Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga 

• Nearest Airport:
• Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (Indore): The closest major airport is in Indore, approximately 77 kilometers from Omkareshwar.
•  From Indore airport, you can hire a taxi or cab to Omkareshwar. The journey takes around 2.5-3 hours.
• Local bus services are available from Indore to Omkareshwar. 
• Auto-rickshaws and local taxis are  available for short distances within Omkareshwar. 
• Ujjain to Omkareshwar: About 140 kilometers, a 3-4 hour drive via the Ujjain-Indore Highway and NH 47.
• Nearest Railway Station:
• Omkareshwar Road Railway Station (OM)
• Distance from Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is around 12 kilometers.

Also Read: Kedarnath Temple Yatra: Complete Guide and Information 

Some suggestions before going to Shri Omkareshwar Temple

Here are some suggestions which will make your Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple trip more comfortable and memorable:

• October to March are the best months to visit Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
• You can increase your blessing levels by participating in rituals and aarti ceremonies.
• Always carry a valid ID.
• Stay hydrated, especially if traveling during warmer months.
• Understanding the history and significance of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga can deepen your experience. 
• Visit the Mamleshwar Temple, located across the river.
• Enjoy the views of the Narmada River and the natural beauty of the region. 

Amazing Facts about Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga 

Here are some amazing facts about Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple that will make you more eager to visit this temple:

• Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is unique because it is believed to be represented by two different temples: Omkareshwar on Mandhata Island and Mamleshwar (or Amareshwar) on the southern bank of the Narmada River.
• The island features a Parikrama route around its perimeter, approx. 8 kilometers long. 
• Besides being a Jyotirlinga, Omkareshwar is also believed to be a Shakti Peetha.
• Bathing in the Narmada is believed to cleanse sins and provide spiritual purification.
• Omkareshwar hosts grand celebrations during Mahashivratri and other festivals.

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Overall Budget of the Travel

Most people try to cover both Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain and Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga in Mandhata, as they are near each other. Thus, you need 3-5 days to cover all the temples in Ujjain and Omkareshwar Temple if you are planning to cover both Jyotirlingas. If you want to visit only Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, then you need only 1-2 days, depending on the distance between your residence and the temple. The overall budget also depends on your travel partners and how many temples and places you want to cover in a single trip. You can expect Rs. 5,000–12,000 per person, according to your conditions and in which season you are going.

Also Read: Srikalahasti Temple: History, Facts and Travel Guide!

Conclusion

It is advised to cover both Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain and Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga in Mandhata, as they are near each other. The distance between Omkareshwar and Ujjain is around 145 kilometers, and it takes 3–3.5 hours to complete the distance by taxi. We have mentioned every piece of information you need to plan your trip to Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in this article. You must add this temple to your Madhya Pradesh travel itineraries, as this visit to Omkareshwar Temple will give you a unique experience and the blessings of Lord Shiva. Har Har Mahadev! 

FAQs

In which city is Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga?

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is present in Omkareshwar Mandhata, Khandwa District, Madhya Pradesh.

Which are the three Jyotirlinga near Ujjain?

There are many temples and two Jyotirlingas near Ujjain, namely Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Ujjain, Kaal Bhairava Temple, Ram Mandir Ghat, and Har Siddhi Temple.

What is the specialty of Omkareshwar?

The specialty of Omkareshwar is the story of this temple. It is said that Lord Shiva came here in the Omkar Swaroopa (form).

Can we cover Omkareshwar and Mahakaleshwar in one day?

Yes, you can cover both Omkareshwar and Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingas in one day by not wasting a minute.

How long is the taxi ride from Ujjain to Omkareshwar?

The distance between Omkareshwar and Ujjain is around 145 kilometers, and it takes 3–3.5 hours to complete the distance.

How much is the boat ride in Omkareshwar?

Rates of a boat ride depend upon the season and how much you can bargain. Usually, it costs around Rs. 800–1000 per person.