Located on an island called Mandhata or Shivapuri in the Narmada river, the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is an eminent Hindu shrine in Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh, India. This temple is one of the twelve revered Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The significance of Omkareshwar extends back to ancient times where it is mentioned in various scriptures and Puranas. The temple is said to have been visited by Adi Shankara and has been a center for learning and pilgrimage for centuries. With the beginnings of structured tourism in India, Omkareshwar started gaining prominence post-independence, especially after the Government of India began promoting pilgrimage tourism.
The landmark has been developed over the years, with better infrastructure, like the construction of the Mamleshwar Setu bridge, which has significantly improved access to the island and boosted tourism. Additionally, the management of the Omkareshwar temple has introduced facilities to better manage the huge influx of pilgrims especially during major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Shravan month, and Kartika Purnima.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend towards the development of spiritual tourism circuits that connect various holy sites. The 'Ramayan Circuit' and the 'Mahabharat Circuit’ have been generating interest, and sites like Omkareshwar are considered integral to these spiritual journeys. The government also plans to renovate and promote the "Maha Shivratri" festival on a grander scale to attract more international tourists.
Eco-tourism is another trend on the rise, with initiatives to develop the surrounding areas while preserving the natural beauty of the region. Visitors are not only interested in the spiritual aspect but also in the serenity and natural ambiance of the island's landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time for visiting Omkareshwar is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploration.
Access to Omkareshwar: The temple is well-connected by road, and the nearest airport is in Indore, approximately 77 km away. The nearest railway station is Omkareshwar Road (Mortakka) at about 12 km distance, and regular bus services and private vehicles are easily available.
Accommodations: There are various accommodations available ranging from budget lodges to more comfortable hotels catering to the needs of different travelers.
The future tourism plans for Omkareshwar include further improvement in infrastructure, like enhancing connectivity and providing even more facilities for pilgrims and tourists. Proposals for a cable car system to offer panoramic views of the scenic surroundings and a sound and light show to tell the story of Omkareshwar are also on the anvil. Such developments promise to make Omkareshwar not only a spiritual haven but a holistic travel experience.
