10 FAQS on Amarkantak Temple (Sri Jwaleshwar Mahadev)
Amarkantak Temple, also known as Sri Jwaleshwar Mahadev, is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is revered for being the source of the holy river Narmada and for its ancient temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The temple holds immense religious significance as it is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva, though it is not officially counted among them. It is also significant for being the meeting point of the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges, and the source of the Narmada River, which is considered holy in Hinduism.
The best time to visit Amarkantak Temple is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing and religious activities. The monsoon season, from July to September, also attracts pilgrims due to the celebration of the Narmada Jayanti.
The temple generally opens to devotees from early morning to evening. There is no entry fee to visit the temple. However, the timings may vary on special occasions and festivals, so it's advisable to check locally before planning a visit.
Amarkantak is accessible by road and the nearest railway station is Pendra Road, which is around 42 km from the temple. The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, approximately 230 km away. Buses and taxis are available from these points to reach Amarkantak.
Yes, there are various accommodation options near Amarkantak Temple ranging from budget guest houses to mid-range hotels. Devotees can also find dharamshalas and ashrams offering basic facilities for a minimal cost.
Apart from the main temple, the region of Amarkantak is dotted with other attractions such as ancient temples like the Narmada Udgam Temple, Sonmuda which is the source of the Sone River, and scenic spots like Kapildhara Waterfall and Dudh Dhara Waterfall.
Yes, the temple celebrates various Hindu festivals, particularly Maha Shivaratri, which draws a large number of devotees from across the country. The Narmada Jayanti is another significant festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in Amarkantak.
Tourists should dress modestly as a sign of respect to the religious site. It's important to follow the temple guidelines such as removing shoes before entering the sanctum and refraining from photography if it's prohibited in certain areas of the temple.
Amarkantak Temple is shrouded in several legends. One of the popular legends is that it is the place where Lord Shiva destroyed a demon called Jwala, and hence the deity here is referred to as Jwaleshwar Mahadev. Pilgrims visit the temple to pay homage to the belief in Shiva's power to protect and cleanse sins.
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