Omkareshwar Temple

Omkareshwar stands on Mandhata island in the Narmada river in Madhya Pradesh, about 77 km from Indore. The island is said to be shaped like the sacred syllable Om, and the temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Its name means lord of Om.

The island takes its name from King Mandhata of the Ikshvaku line, who is said to have performed penance here. Pilgrims often count the nearby Mamleshwar (Amareshwar) shrine on the river's bank together with Omkareshwar. The Narmada is held to be as sacred as the Ganga, and the island has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.

Traditionally associated with the sage Mandhata. Two temples share the island — Omkareshwar in the south and Mamleshwar (Amareshwar) in the north.

The temple is built in the Nagara style, with a tall spire and a pillared hall with carved stonework, and it dates in its present form to the medieval period. It stands on a ghat beside the river, reached by steps from a footbridge linking the island to the mainland.

The temple rises over several storeys, each with its own lingam shrine. A circuit around the island, the Mandhata Parvat Parikrama, passes smaller temples and the river. Nearby on the hill is the Statue of Oneness, a large statue of Adi Shankara, unveiled in 2023.

Pilgrims bathe in the Narmada before darshan and offer water, bael leaves and flowers. In the evening, a Narmada aarti is performed at the ghat with lamps floating on the river.

The Narmada Parikrama, the walk around the entire river from source to sea and back, is a traditional pilgrimage that takes months, and some pilgrims start from Omkareshwar. Maha Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima and Narmada Jayanti are the main festivals.

• Maha Shivaratri
• Kartik Purnima
• Narmada Jayanti

Weekdays are quieter than Mondays and the Shravan month. Boat rides on the Narmada are available to see the ghats and the temple from the water, but they may be suspended during the monsoon floods. Dress modestly, and keep belongings secure on the footbridge and in the crowds.

Indore is the nearest airport, around 77 km away, and Omkareshwar Road is the nearest rail station. Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain, also in the directory, is a common pairing, and Maheshwar and Mandu are within a day's reach.

Omkareshwar is 77 km from Indore. Reached by a footbridge or boat from the mainland.

• Mahakaleshwar TempleMadhya Pradesh · about 112 km in a straight line

• Vishvanatha TempleMadhya Pradesh
• Kandariya Mahadeva TempleMadhya Pradesh
• Grishneshwar TempleMaharashtra
• Trimbakeshwar TempleMaharashtra
• Somnath Mahadev Temple DamanDadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
• Bhimashankar TempleMaharashtra

See all 4 Shiva temples in Madhya Pradesh

Where is Omkareshwar Temple located?

Omkareshwar Temple is located at Mandhata Island, Khandwa 450554, in Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh, India.

Who is the presiding deity at Omkareshwar Temple?

The presiding deity at Omkareshwar Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.

What are the timings of Omkareshwar Temple?

Omkareshwar Temple is generally open 05:00–22:00. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.

When was Omkareshwar Temple built?

Omkareshwar Temple was established 11th century CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.

What is the architectural style of Omkareshwar Temple?

Omkareshwar Temple is built in the Nagara style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.

Which festivals are celebrated at Omkareshwar Temple?

The principal festivals celebrated at Omkareshwar Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima, Narmada Jayanti. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Madhya Pradesh and beyond.

How can I reach Omkareshwar Temple?

Omkareshwar is 77 km from Indore. Reached by a footbridge or boat from the mainland.

Why is Omkareshwar Temple significant?

Jyotirlinga on the Mandhata island in the Narmada, shaped like the sacred syllable Om.

What is the best time to visit Omkareshwar Temple?

October to March for weather; the Shravan month (July to August) and Maha Shivaratri bring heavy crowds.