Shri Omkar Mandhata Temple in Omkareshwar is one of the sacred temples of Madhya Pradesh which houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. It stands on a naturally made island of River Narmada and has been drawing thousands of pilgrims and devotees every year.
The Narmada River bifurcates to form a half mile wide island on which the temple of Shri Omkar Mandhata stands. This temple in Omkareshwar was built on soft stone which made it easier for the display of exquisite and detailed work of art. The upper portion of Shri Omkar Mandhata which has the famous frieze figures and the beautifully carved stone roof of the temple makes it one of the most unique and significant monument of the place. The shrine is bordered by balconies with carved columns of distinct shapes such as polygons, squares and circles.
History of Shri Omkar Mandhata Temple:
Legend says that Vindhya mountains prayed to Shiva and Omkareshwar was blessed. Later on request of the Devas, the Shivalinga split into two. One remained in Omkareshwar, in the Shri Omkar Mandhata while the other at Almaleshwar. Shri Omkar Mandhata is the main temple of Omkareshwar.
How to reach Shri Omkar Mandhata:
The nearest airport to Omkareshwar is Indore(77 km), connected with all major cities. The nearest rail station is Omkareshwar Road, by the Western railways. There are road connections from Omkareshwar to Indore, Ujjain,Khandwa and Omkareshwar Road by regular services of bus.
