Along the banks of the Narmada River, in the middle of Madhya Pradesh, Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is the sacred Pilgrimage centre, one of the 12 holy Jyotirlingas. The Ommareshwar island is in the shape of Om. It has two sacred Shiva Linga Temples, Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar, respectively. This blog post discusses the city, Island and the mighty Mandhata hill of the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga.
Omkareshwar on the Narmada river
Omkareshwar temple is also known as Shivapuri meaning the land of Lord Shiva. This island is in Pranava shape. Which is the shape of OM This island, divided into north and south by a deep gully, is connected by a bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Narmada River’s confluence with the Kaveri. A boat ride along the Narmada River around the island is a serene and spiritually enriching experience that visitors cherish.
READ MORE: OM SHAPED ISLAND MYSTERY
Omkareshwar and Mamaleshwar Jyotirlingas
Omkareshwar is renowned for having two significant Jyotirlingas: Omkareshwar and Mamaleshwar. These Jyotirlingas are considered of equal status, attracting millions of devotees, including Hindus and Jains. The spiritual significance of these Jyotirlingas is large, making Omkareshwar a hub for spiritual seekers.
Mandhata hill
Mandhata Hill, known as Omkareshwar, is far from Omkareshwar Island. This hill is a place of great religious importance, as it houses one of the 12 revered Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. Mandhata Hill boasts two alluring temples, Omkareshwar and Amareshwar, which are not just places of worship but also architectural wonders. The Narmada River gracefully flows around the hill, forming the sacred ‘Om’ symbol.
Jain Siddheshwar Kut Temple
Nearby Omkareshwar lies Siddhawarakut, an important Jain pilgrimage site. The region is an ancient Jain temple, some of which have undergone renovation. The presence of these temples has records dating back to 1488 AD. Tirthankara Lord Shri Shantinath Ji is one of the significant deities worshipped here.
READ MORE: JYOTIRLINGAS IN MADHYA PRADESH
Historical treasures and jain Heritage
Omkareshwar is not just a place of worship; it’s also a repository of history. The island hosts the cave of Govind Ji, the Guru of Adi guru Shankaracharya, and ruins of the grand Siddhnath Temple, the Temple of Gauri Somnath, and the Rinkmukteshwar Temple. Nearby Omkareshwar, Siddhawarakut is an important Jain pilgrimage site with ancient temples that reflect the region’s deep-rooted history.
READ MORE: MAHAKALESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA IN MADHYA PRADESH
Conclusion
Omkareshwar is a place where spirituality harmoniously coexists with natural beauty. The island’s ‘Om’ shape, the presence of significant Jyotirlingas, the mystique of Mandhata Hill, and the historical treasures all come together to create a unique and enchanting destination. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking spiritual enlightenment, a history enthusiast, or a traveller looking for a serene escape, Omkareshwar offers an experience that transcends the ordinary on the serene banks of the Narmada River.
READ MORE: OMKARESHWAR TEMPLE IN MADHYA PRADESH
READ MORE ABOUT THE 12 JYOTIRLINGAS NAME, PLACE AND IMAGES