Hey folks!
I’m Mohit from Greater Noida, a B.Tech enthusiast who’s deeply in love with the wonders of travel. Let me walk you through an incredible three-day journey to the heart of Madhya Pradesh with my friends.
Omkareshwar is the fourth Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, located in the Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh on Mandhata Island in the Narmada River. It’s about 80 km from Indore. The island’s shape resembles the Hindu Om symbol. Two temples, Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar, stand here, honoring the “Lord of Om Sound” and the “Immortal Lord,” respectively.
Route to Omkareshwar from Delhi:
The journey starts from Delhi, with a train to Indore, followed by a bus to Khandwa district, covering around 75 km.
Day 1: The Arrival and Narmada Ghat Views
We began in Delhi, took a train to Indore, and then took a bus to reach Khandwa district. Late at night, we found a comfortable stay at MPT Temple View, just a short distance from the remarkable Omkareshwar Temple. The night was magical at our hotel near the Narmada Ghat and the Jyotirlinga temple. The breathtaking views from the ghat set the stage for the spiritual and scenic adventure ahead. A 15-minute walk from this hotel guides you to the temple premises.
Day 2: Spiritual Exploration at Omkareshwar Temple
The next morning, as the sun rose, we took a refreshing dip in the Narmada, preparing our souls for the divine journey. Our destination was the Omkareshwar Temple, a Jyotirlinga near Khandwa city.
Joining the queue for darshan, we experienced a rush that expressed the importance of the temple’s value. It was a three-hour wait for a 2-kilometer stretch, but the spiritual power and connection with fellow devotees made every moment worthwhile. The temple closed for an hour at noon, delivering a peaceful break in the middle of the crowded rituals.
After the darshan, our exploration took us to the Kedareshwar Temple on Mandhata Island. The noticeable difference in crowd size between Omkareshwar and Kedareshwar allowed us to spend about an hour in peaceful surroundings.
The market outside the temple offered a delightful variety of local treats, from restaurant stalls serving authentic food too. In the evening, we enjoyed a boat ride on the Narmada. After a day filled with spiritual experiences, we returned to our hotel for some well-deserved rest.
Day 3: Final Explorations and Departure
The next morning, we bid farewell to Omkareshwar, knowing that after 11 p.m., the vibrant shops and stalls would begin closing down. Our hotel expenses averaged Rs.1500 per day, making our stay at MPT Temple View a reasonable and comfortable choice.
The total expenditure for a three-day trip, including travel, accommodation, and exploration, sums up to around 5000 per person, a worthwhile investment in memories that would last a lifetime.
As we departed, I couldn’t help but reflect on the spiritual journey, the beauty of the Narmada, and the warmth shared with friends. Until the next adventure unfolds!
Hidden Gem at Narmada Ghats:
Evening Boating Rides-
Opting for a boat ride on the Narmada for 500 rupees, one can undertake a one-hour journey guided by a local expert who shares captivating tales about the river and the temples along its banks. The rhythmic charm of the river, coupled with stories of Kaveri and the temple, created an enchanting experience. The mainland and islands are adorned with various colorful boats, carrying passengers and pilgrims along the river from many ghats.
Best Accommodation and Food in Omkareshwar:
MPT Temple View is a cozy retreat located near the Narmada Ghat and Omkareshwar Temple. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and is a stone’s throw away from the temple. This hotel is known for its guest service, quality vegetarian food, and clean ambience.
The local market near the temples offers a delightful variety of treats, including golgappas and authentic poha. There are also restaurant stalls serving delicious local cuisine.
Travel Tips:
- Grab your meals early, as most shops close down after 11 p.m.
- Plan your budget for an average expenditure of Rs. 1500 per day for hotel expenses.
- Consider waking up early to witness the temple and the Narmada Ghat at dawn to avoid the rush for darshan.
The best time to visit Omkareshwar Temple
The ideal time to visit Omkareshwar is from October to March. Monsoons are also fine, as rainfall is usually moderate. The town looks especially charming during the festive season of Dussehra, and if possible, visiting then allows you to see the illuminated town.
With a spiritual journey, breathtaking views, and delightful experiences, Omkareshwar is truly a place of sacred serenity. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in Madhya Pradesh!
