Narmadakund is a sacred water reservoir located in the pilgrimage town of Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is considered the source of the Narmada River, which is one of the holiest rivers in Hinduism. This kund (tank) is surrounded by a group of temples and is a significant stop for pilgrims visiting the region.
Amarkantak is important in Hinduism and Jainism as it is the source of the Narmada River, one of the five holy rivers in India. In Hindu mythology, the Narmada is revered for its purifying properties. Moreover, Amarkantak is home to many ancient temples, some of which date back to the Kalachuri period, making it a spiritual and historical destination for pilgrims and tourists.
Around Narmadakund, visitors can explore several ancient temples. Noteworthy among them are the Narmada Temple, where the river is worshipped, the ancient Sri Yantra Temple, the Kapildhara Temple, and the Keshav Narayan Temple. Each of these temples holds mythological and architectural significance, offering insights into the region's spiritual and historical heritage.
The best time to visit Narmadakund and the temples in Amarkantak is between October and March. During this period, the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, and the pilgrimage season is at its peak with various religious festivals, which provides a unique cultural experience.
Yes, Narmadakund and Amarkantak are known for celebrating the Narmada Jayanti festival with great zeal. This festival marks the birth of the Narmada River and usually falls in January or February. It attracts a large number of devotees who perform sacred rituals and take a dip in the Narmadakund. Maha Shivratri is another festival celebrated grandly in Amarkantak.
Tourists can reach Amarkantak by various means of transport. The nearest airport is in Jabalpur, which is around 228 kilometers away. Pendra Road (around 42 kilometers away) is the closest railway station. Amarkantak is also well-connected by road with frequent bus services from major cities like Jabalpur, Shahdol, and Rewa.
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the temples in Amarkantak, including the ones around Narmadakund. However, visitors often make voluntary donations. It's advisable to check the latest information as policies may change.
The visiting hours for Narmadakund and the surrounding temples typically start from early morning around 5:00 AM and go until evening around 9:00 PM. These times can vary, and there may be certain restrictions or alterations during special occasions and festivals.
Yes, there are a variety of accommodation options available in Amarkantak ranging from budget lodges to mid-range hotels. Some religious organizations also run guesthouses that offer basic facilities for pilgrims.
Visitors should adhere to standard guidelines which include dressing modestly, removing shoes before entering temple premises, and maintaining the sanctity of the place by not littering or causing disturbances. Photography may be restricted inside the temple sanctum, so it's advisable to check for specific regulations upon arrival.
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