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Mahakaleshwar Temple Timings, Poojas, and History

, 58 Comments Filed Under: Jyotirlinga, Madhya Pradesh Temples Tagged With:

Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Lingam of the Mahakaleshwar temple is the largest among all other Jyotirlingas. Images of various Gods, Goddesses, Apsaras, and Kichakas adorn the walls and pillars of the temple.

Planning to visit the Mahakaleshwar Temple? Have a look at our Mahakaleshwar Omkareshwar Tour Package.

Mahakaleshwar Temple – Facts

DeityLord Mahakaleshwar (Lord Shiva)
LocationUjjain, Madhya Pradesh
SignificanceJyotirlinga
ToursMahakaleshwar Omkareshwar Tour
Darshan Timings4:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Entry FeeFree
PoojasMaharudrabhisek, Laghurudrabhisek
Best Time to VisitOctober to March
FestivalsShravan, Shivratri
Jyotirlingas in Madhya PradeshMahakaleshwar Temple, Omkareshwar Temple
Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain Video

Darshan Timings of the Mahakaleshwar Temple

The temple opens at 4 AM and closes at 11 PM. The temple also performs various rituals during this time. The devotees can be a part of these rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening aarti. Moreover, there is no afternoon break in between, unlike most temples which remain closed in the afternoon for lunch.

The timings are as follows:

RitualFromTo
Darshan4:00 AM11:00 PM
Bhasma Aarti4:00 AM6:00 AM
Morning Pooja7:00 AM7:30 AM
Evening Pooja5:00 PM5:30 PM
Shree Mahakaal Aarti7:00 PM7:30 PM

It is important to note that during the winter season, these rituals take place half an hour later than the given timings.

What are the sevas and poojas of the Mahakaleshwar Temple?

Pooja at Mahakaleshwar
Maharudrabhishek being performed at the Mahakaleshwar Temple.

Some of the sevas and poojas of the Mahakaleshwar Temple are:

  • Bhasm Aarti: This aarti is unique to the temple. The priest applies Vibhhoti (Bhasm) to the Shiva Linga every day at 4:00 AM. Only, pilgrims holding a VIP pass can enter the Sanctum or the Garbhagraha for the aarti. Women cannot witness Bhasma decoration during the aarti.
  • Maharudrabhishek: In the abhishek, recitations of Rigveda, Samveda, Yajurveda and Atharva Veda is done in front of the deities of the Mahakaleshwar Temple.
  • Laghurudrabhishek: This abhishek is done to resolve issues related to health and wealth. It is also done to remove the harmful effects of planets in the horoscope.
  • Mahamrityunjaya Jaap: The Mahamrityunjaya abhishek increases longevity and immortality of the person. It is also known as the Rudra mantra and has miraculous effects in the lives of the people who perform it. Chanting this mantra helps relieve the individual from the cycle of death and rebirth. Hence, this mantra is also known as the Moksha Mantra.
Mahakaleshwar Bhasma Pooja
The Mahakaleshwar Bhasma Pooja is said to be extremely auspicious.

What is the significance of Mahakaleshwar Temple?

The Mahakaleshwar Shrine
The Mahakaleshwar Lingam is said to be the largest among all the 12 Jyotirlingas.

The significance of the Mahakaleshwar Temple is that the Lingam of Mahakaleshwar is Swayambhu in nature. Sri Mahakaleshwar is the Lord of Time. He is also famous as the one who is capable of winning difficult situations. This is the only Lingam in the world which faces south, the direction of Death.

The Mahakaleshwar temple is also one of the eighteen Maha Shakti Peethas. Shakti Peethas are the sites where body parts of Sati Devi fell after the Sudarshana Chakra, in the Daksha Yoga episode of Hindu mythology, cut her body. Devotees believe that the Upper Lip of the Sati Devi fell here. Moreover, the Goddess is popular as Mahakali here.

What is the history of the Mahakaleshwar Temple?

As per the history of Mahakaleshwar Temple, Lord Brahma himself established the first temple at the site. The coins recovered at Ujjain have the mark of Lord Shiva on them. According to several poetic texts, in the Paramara period, invaders destroyed the temple. Later, Udayaditya and Naravarman, the rulers of the Malwa region, rebuilt it.

According to the ancient scripture, Sthalapuranam, King Chandrasena was a devotee of Shiva. A young boy named Shrikhar heard his prayers to the god and wanted to join him. However, people did not let him do it and sent him out of the city. Shrikhar heard the plans of rival kings Ripudhamana and Singhaditya to attack the city with the help of the demon king Dushan.

Asura Dushan had a blessing of invisibility from Brahma. So, Shrikhar and a priest named Vriddhi prayed to Lord Shiva for help. The enemies arrived at Avantika (now known as Ujjain) and started torturing the people. They banned all Vedic Dharmanushtan activities in the city. The people started praying to Lord Shiva for help.

Devotees also believe that when Dushan started attacking Avantika, the ground split near the statue of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva came out of it as Mahakaal. He burnt the demons with just one grunt. Adhering to the request of the people of Avantika, Lord Shiva then decided to stay there as the chief deity of Avantika.

What is the structure of the Mahakaleshwar Temple?

The Mahakaleshwar temple is a three-storied structure. The Lingam of Mahakaleshwar is worshipped on the first floor, which is actually under the ground level. On the second level, the Lingam of Omkareshwara is worshipped. The Nagachandeshwara Linga is worshipped on the third level. The third level is open to the public only on Naga Panchami.

What are the festivals celebrated at Mahakaleshwar Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Mahakaleshwar Temple are:

  • Kumbh Mela: This Mela has the distinction of being the largest religious gathering on the planet. It takes place once every 12 years in Ujjain, Allahabad, Haridwar, and Nashik. Also, the festival continues for about one and a half months. The pilgrims and sages (sadhus) take a ceremonial dip in the River Ksipra. Religious discourses, Ramlilas, Raslilas as well as the grand procession of sadhus are the main features of the Kumbh Mela.
  • Mahashivaratri: Thousands of pilgrims visit the temple to celebrate the day Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. It occurs on the 13th or 14th day of the Magha month (February / March) in the Indian hindu calendar
  • Karthik Mela: It occurs every year in the Hindu month of Karthik (November / December).
  • Harihara Milana: The celebrations of this festival take place on Vaikuntha Chaturdashi, which signifies the meeting of two Lords – Lord Krishna as well as Lord Shiva at midnight.

How to reach the Mahakaleshwar Temple?

Here’s how to reach Mahakaleshwar Temple:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Indore which is 53 km away from Ujjain.
  • Train: Direct trains are available to Ujjain from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Benaras, Kochi as well as Jaipur.
  • Road: Bus services are available from cities like Indore, Surat, Mumbai, Pune, Udaipur, Nasik, and Mathura.

Route from Indore

Indore is about 53 km away from the Mahakaleshwar Temple. Plenty of options are available for one to travel to the temple from here. Here’s the Mahakaleshwar Temple route from Indore:

  • Air: The nearest railway station is in Indore and one can hire cabs or take a bus to Mahakaleshwar Temple from there.
  • Train: One can travel through trains such as the Ranthambhor SF express as well as the Malwa SF express to travel between Ujjain and Indore.
  • Road: The fastest route to travel from Indore to Mahakaleshwar temple is via the Ujjain-Indore road. Also, it takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to travel using this route.

Where to stay near the temple?

The Temple Management has constructed two Dharmashalas for pilgrims to stay. The names of the Dharmashalas are Pandit Shree Surya Narayan Vyas Dharmashala and the Shree Mahakaal Dharmashala. Non AC dormitories, Non AC rooms, and AC rooms are available to pilgrims at reasonable rates.

Several budget hotels, 3-star, and 5-star hotels operate in Ujjain as this is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world.

What are some temples nearby?

Explore Ujjain
One of the holiest cities, Ujjain is home to many temples.

Some of the temples near Mahakaleshwar Temple are:

  • Harsiddhi Temple: It is located just 400 meters away from the Mahakaleshwar temple. This temple is one of the Shakti Peethas according to Hindu mythology. Devotees also believe that Sati’s elbow fell here when the Sudarshana Chakra, in the Daksha Yagna episode of the Hindu tradition, cut her body.
  • Ram Janardhan Mandir: Raja Jai Singh constructed this temple in the 17th century. The specialities of the temple include the 11th-century sculpture of Govardhandhari Krishna, the 10th-century sculpture of Vishnu as well as the 12th-century idol of Trimurti.
  • Kala Bhairava temple: Beliefs say that King Bhadra constructed this temple over the ruins of an old demolished temple. Further, this temple was of great significance during the Paramar period.
  • Chintamani Ganpati Temple: The Goddess Riddhi and Siddhi are present on two sides of Lord Ganesh. Devotees also offer special prayers to the god every Wednesday in the month of Chaithra.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mahakaleshwar Temple

Is the Mahakaleshwar Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Mahakaleshwar Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Mahakaleshwar Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizen?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

What is the weather like during the summers?

The summers in Ujjain starts from April and continue until June. The summers here can be very hot and dry. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 45 º C.

What are winters like in Ujjain?

In Ujjain, winters start in October and continue until March. The temperatures during this time range from around 3 º C to 20 º C. The weather during this time is cold but pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Mahakaleshwar Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Srisailam Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

, 38 Comments Filed Under: Andhra Pradesh Temples, Jyotirlinga Tagged With:

Srisailam Temple also known as Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Temple is situated in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is on the top of the Nallamala hills, on the banks of River Krishna. The Lingam of the presiding deity Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Planning to visit the Srisailam Temple? Have a look at our Srisailam Tour Package.

Srisailam Temple – Facts

DeityLord Malliakarjuna (Lord Shiva)
LocationKurnool, Andhra Pradesh
SignificanceJyotirlinga
ToursSrisailam Tour
Darshan Timings4:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry FeeFree
PoojasRudra Homam
Best Time to VisitOctober to March
FestivalsShravan, Shivratri
Jyotirlingas in South IndiaSrisailam Temple, Rameswaram Temple

The famous hill is also popular as Siridhan, Srigiri, Sirigiri, Sriparvatha as well as Srinagam. It is also one of the most important Shaivite pilgrimage sites in India. There are two separate temple complexes present inside – one is in dedication to Lord Mallikarjuna while the other one is for Goddess Bhramarambha.

Srisailam Temple Video

What are the timings of Srisailam Temple?

The temple opens at 4:30 AM and closes at 10:00 PM. The temple also performs various rituals during this time. The devotees can be a part of these rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening poojas.

The timings are as follows:

RitualFromTo
Daily Darshan4:30 AM10:00 PM
Morning Darshan6:00 AM3:30 PM
Evening Darshan6:00 PM10:00 PM

The aarti timings are:

RitualTimings
Suprabhatha Darshan5:00 AM
Mahamangala Aarti (Morning)5:30 AM
Mahamangala Aarti (Evening)5:00 PM

What are the poojas and sevas at Srisailam Temple?

The poojas and sevas performed at the Srisailam Temple are:

RitualTimings
Ganapathi Abhishekam7:00 AM
Ganapathi Homam7:00 AM
Rudra Homam7:30 AM
Laksha Bilwarchana11:00 AM
Sahasralingam Abhishekam6:30 AM
Kumkuma Pooja7:00 AM
Gouri Vratham8:00 AM

What is the significance of Srisailam Temple?

Srisailam Jyotirlinga

The significance of Srisailam Temple is that Mallikarjuna Linga is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is supposed to have appeared in a fiery column of light. Moreover, the Linga is swayambhu. Devotees also believe that the neck of Sati fell here when her corpse was cut.

Anyone, irrespective of caste, creed or religion can perform Abhishekam and Archana to the Mallikarjuna Linga. The unique feature is that you can touch the Linga and perform the Puja yourself.

Beliefs also say that Lord Rama himself installed the Sahasralinga in the Srisailam Temple. The Linga is divided into 25 facets which in turn represent 40 Lingas each. This leads to a total of 1000 small Lingas carved on a single Linga.

The Pandavas placed the Panchapandava Lingas in the temple courtyard. The five Lingas have their names after the different forms of Siva – Sadyojatha, Vamadeva, Aghora, Tatpurush, and Eesana. Moreover, stories from the Mahabharata are there on the walls of the temple. The Srisailam temple also has mentioned as a holy hill in the Mahabharata.

What is the history of Srisailam Temple?

As per the history of Srisailam Temple, mention of Srisailam hills can be traced to the Nasik inscription of the Satavahana King Vasisthiputra Pulumavi in the 1st century AD. The Ikshavakus Kingdom ruled Srisailam from AD200 – 300. The inscriptions dating around AD 375-612 state that the Vishnukundis were the devotees of Sri Parvathsawamy.

According to the Shiva Purana, when Lord Ganesha got married before Lord Karthikeyan, Lord Karthikeyan got angry and left for the Kraunch Mountain. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati tried to console him but were unable to stop him from leaving. Dejected, Lord Shiva took the form of Jyotirlinga and settled on the mountain-top.

There is another legend associated with the Srisailam Temple. Chandravathi, daughter of Chandragupta Patana ran away from her father who made amorous advances towards her. She crossed the River Krishna and went up to the hilltop where she lived with her servants. She observed that one of her cows would stand over a rock formation and shed milk over it daily. The Princess dreamt that the rock was a self-manifested Linga of Lord Shiva.

Hence, she dug the ground and a glowing Linga emerged out of it. She worshipped the Linga daily by adorning it with Jasmine (Mallika) flowers. Lord Shiva was very pleased, so he granted her Mukti and salvation by sending her to Kailash.

Srisailam Temple Gopuram

What are the festivals celebrated at Srisailam Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Srisailam Temple are:

  • Mahasivaratri Brahmothsavams: The Mahasivaratri Utsav occurs in the month of February or March. The Mahasivaratri day (29th day of Magham) marks the beginning of a seven day festival period. The important events are Ankurarpana, Dhwajarohana, Vahana Seva to God and Goddess as well as Lingodhbhavakala Maharudrabhishekam to God.
  • Ugadi: The celebrations happen for five days in which lakhs of people visit the temple for God’s blessings. The festival begins 3 days before Ugadi (Telugu New Year) which occurs in late March or early April. The important events of the celebrations are Vahana Seva to God and Goddess, Alankaras to Goddess, Veerachara Vinyasalu and Rath Yatra.
  • Kartheekai Mahothsavam: It is one of the most auspicious months in the Indian calendar. Devotees light numbers of deepams are in the Srisailam temple premises. They also perform Jvalathoranam (bonfire) in the temple on the full moon day of the month.
  • Sravanamahothsavam: This festival occurs in the Shravan month (August / September). Also, the Akhanda Sivanama Sankeerthana (Bhajans) takes place around the clock throughout the month.

How to reach Srisailam Temple?

Here’s how to reach Srisailam Temple:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International airport at Hyderabad. It is 202 km away from Srisailam.
  • Train: The nearest Railway Station is Markapur which is 80 km away followed by Nandyal and Kurnool.
  • Road: The Srisailam Temple is situated just 1 km away from the Srisailam Bus Stand.

Where to stay nearby?

Devasthanam or the Temple management launched the Kuteera Nirmana Pathakam, a donation scheme under which they have built several suites, cottages, rooms as well as dormitories for the pilgrims. Please bring your Identity card to confirm the booking. Also, one cannot cancel the booking.

There are up to 70 private hotels/choultries in the area where one can avail accommodation and food.

What are some places to visit nearby?

Explore Kurnool

Some of the places one can visit near Srisailam Temple are:

  • Sakshi Ganapathi: It is located about 3 km away from Srisailam. Devotees believe that Ganapathi keeps attendance / Sakshi of the pilgrims visiting the Srisailam holy town. Also, in the sculpture, the god holds a book in the left hand and a pen in the right hand to note down the names.
  • Hatakeswaram: It is 5 km away from Srisailam. The legend says that God Siva appeared to a potter in Atika (Piece of Pot). Hence, this place was famous as Atikeswaram which later became Hatakeswaram.
  • Sikhareswaram: It is located at a distance of 8 km away from Srisailam. The temple is located at 2830 feet above sea level making it the highest peak in Srisailam. Also, the temple is an ancient stone structure. According to the Skanda Puranam, a glance at the peak will relieve the curses of re-birth.
  • Phaladhara Panchadhara: It is located 4 km away from Srisailam. Sri Adi Sankara performed penance at this place and composed the famous Sivanandalahari.
  • Akkamahadevi Caves: It is located 10 km away from Srisailam. Beliefs say that Akkamahadevi, a lyricist and philosopher spent some years in these caves in 12th Century AD doing penance and worshiping the Sivalinga. Also, the Linga naturally existed in the deep parts of the cave. These caves are also home to Siddhas who practiced Alchemy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Srisailam Temple

Is the Srisailam Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Srisailam Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Srisailam Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

What is the weather like during summer?

The summers in Kurnool starts from April and continue until June. The summers here can be very hot and dry. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 45 º C.

What are winters like in Kurnool?

In Kurnool, winters start in October and continue until March. The temperatures during this time range from around 17 º C to 28 º C. The weather during this time is not too cold and pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Srisailam Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

, 12 Comments Filed Under: Jyotirlinga, Uttar Pradesh Temples Tagged With:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the 12 holy Jyotirlingas. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. “Vishwanath” means “King of the World” and hence, the Jyotirlinga here is said to be the King of all Jyotirlingas. It is said that if a person visits all the Jyotirlingas, he is blessed with good health and also attains Moksha.

Planning to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple? Have a look at our Varanasi Tour Package.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Facts

DeityLord Vishwanath (Lord Shiva)
LocationVaranasi, Uttar Pradesh
SignificanceJyotirlinga
ToursVaranasi Tour
Darshan Timings4:00 AM – 11:00 AM; 12 PM – 7 PM; 8:30 PM – 9 PM
Entry FeeFree
PoojasRudrabhisek, Pathatmak Atirudra
Best Time to VisitOctober to March
FestivalsShravan, Shivratri, Holi, Pradosham
Kashi Vishwanath Temple Darshan Video

What are the timings of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

The temple opens at 2:30 AM and closes at 11 PM. However, after 9 PM, pilgrims are allowed to view the Lord from outside the sanctum only. The temple performs various rituals during this time. The devotees can be a part of these rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening aarti.

The timings are as follows:

Darshan4:00 AM to 11:00 AM; 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM; 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Mangala Aarti3:00 AM to 4:00 AM
Afternoon Bhog11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Sapta Rishi Aarti7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Shringar Bhog and Aarti9:00 PM
Shayan Aarti10:30 PM

Devotees can receive online darshan and e-pooja by visiting the temple’s official website: shrikashivishwanath.org

What are the poojas performed at Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

The following poojas are performed between 4 AM to 6 PM at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

  1. Rudrabhishek: This pooja is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshiped as Fire or Rudra. The pooja wipes out all sins and purifies the atmosphere. It also removes all sorts of planetary related ill-occurrences. The Mondays of the month and the Pradosham days are considered as ideal for performing this pooja.
  2. Maharudrabhishek: In the abhishek, recitations of Rigveda, Samveda, Yajurveda and Atharva Veda is done in front of the deities of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
  3. Laghurudrabhishek: This abhishek is done to resolve issues related to health and wealth. It is also done to remove the harmful effects of planets in the horoscope.
  4. Shravan Somvar Pooja: The Mondays of the month of Shravan (July – August) are considered highly auspicious for worshiping Lord Shiva. Devotees observe Somvar Vrat during the Shravan month and perform Poojas in their homes.  The articles used for worship are Bilva leaves, white flowers, water, honey, and milk. The charges for the Seva are Rs. 6251.
  5. Lakh Vilvarchana: This archana is performed by offering one lakh Bilva leaves to the Linga of God.

Poojas and sevas can be booked online on the temple’s official website: shrikashivishwanath.org

The poojas mentioned below are Long Term Schemes and are offered for a period of 20 years:

  • Dainik Pooja and Archana Scheme: This annual scheme has a membership fee of Rs. 11, 000 /-. As per the scheme, the Rudrabhishekam is performed once a year for 20 years in the name of the devotee.
  • Yati Bhiksha: The word “Yati” means “Sadhu” or a Sage. Yati Bhiksha means that offerings like food will be provided to the Sadhus residing in the holy town of Varanasi. The charges for the seva are Rs. 8, 751/-.
  • Sarwa Pooja: All the poojas of the day are performed for one day in the name of the devotee. The charges of the seva are Rs. 13, 751/-.

Yatras at Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Apart from the poojas and sevas mentioned above, the devotees can also be a part of yatras. Here are some yatras one can be a part of:

  • Panchatheertha Yatra: The pilgrims should take a bath in the five main Ghats in the sequence of Asi ghat – Dashashwamedha ghat, Aadikeshav ghat, Panchganga ghat, Manikarnika ghat, and then proceed to visit all the shrines of Kashi.
  • Mauni Yatra: This yatra should begin with a bath in the Manikarnika ghat followed by the darshan of the various forms of Shiva and Shakti and end with a bath again at the Manikarnika ghat. The condition of the Yatra is that it should be performed in silence.

What is the significance of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

The Shrine of Kashi Vishwanath
Lord Vishwanath of Kashi is said to be the King of all the 12 Jyotirlingas.

The significance of the temple is that the Linga of the presiding deity Lord Vishwanath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas that are revered in Hindu mythology. The Jyotirlinga means that the Linga is self-manifested and is called Swayambhu. It is believed that a one-time visit to Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga equals to the visit of the rest of the eleven Jyotirlingas. Kashi Vishwanath is called the King of Jyotirlingas.

The well of Gyan Vaapi is also known as the well of wisdom. It is believed that before Aurangzeb attacked the city, the Jyotirlinga was hidden inside the well. The well can be seen between the mosque and the temple.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple has been visited and appreciated by several revered ancient saints like Sri Adi Shankaracharya, Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Swami Vivekananda, Swami Dayanand Saraswati and Gurunanak.

It is believed that Kashi is the holiest city for Hindus and that anyone who lives here will attain Moksha. It is a belief that anyone who departs from the city of Kashi will attain spiritual enlightenment and salvation. This is the reason that the ashes of departed people are mostly dispersed in the River Ganga at Kashi.

According to the scriptures, the city was built by Lord Shiva on his trident as his residence after his marriage with Goddess Parvati. It is believed that the first rays of the sun fell on the city of Kashi when the world was created. Hence, it is believed that the city is so sacred that even if the end of the world (Pralayam) happens, the city of Kashi will survive.

In the Puranas, the city is also mentioned as Aadyavaishnav Bhoomi and Lord Brahma is supposed to have performed ten Ashwamedha Yagnas at the Dashashwamedha Ghat. It is an important place for devotees of Shakti (Goddess Sati) as the city is also home to a Shakti Peeth.

Lord Shiva is the protector of the city. It is believed that the Navagraha (Nine Planets) does not influence or affect the people living in Kashi as they abide by the rules of Lord Shiva. They cannot even enter the city without Lord Shiva’s permission.

A popular tradition that is followed to date is that the water taken from River Ganga after visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is used for abhishekam of the Jyotirlinga of Sri Ramanathaswamy in Rameswaram. The sand from the temple is brought back to Kashi and given as an offering to Lord Vishwanath. Hence, it is believed that the pilgrimage of Kashi and Rameswaram will lead to complete Moksha and enlightenment.

What is the history of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Kashi Vishwanath Temple History
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is said to have been built in the 11th century.

According to evidence, the history of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple dates back to the 11th century. The Temple was subjected to repeated invasions and destruction. The original structure of the temple was destroyed by Qutb-ud-din-Aibak in 1194 CE but was rebuilt under the reign of Sultan Iltutmish.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple was again attacked under the reign of either Sikander Lodhi or under Husain Sharqi in the 1400s. Raja Man Singh built it but was boycotted as he allowed the Mughals to marry into his family. However, Todar Mal further re-built the Temple with Akbar’s blessings at the original site in 1585.

In 1669, Aurangzeb destroyed the temple again and over the foundations, built the Gyanvapi Mosque. Later, plans were made to demolish the mosque by Maratha ruler Malhar Rao Holkar in 1742 and in 1750 by the Maharaja of Jaipur. However, they were unsuccessful in doing so due to the objections raised by the Nawabs of Lucknow. The remains of the temple can still be seen in the mosque premises.

In 1780, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar constructed the present Kashi Vishwanath Temple near the mosque. In 1828, the widow of Daulat Rao Scindia, Baija Rao built a colonnade with 40 pillars at the Gyan Vyapi premises. The Gyan Vyapi Well boundary, the Ghats, and other small temples were eventually built during the period 1833-1840.

What is the structure of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Kashi Vishwanath Temple complex is quadrangular in shape with several small temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Dandapani (Karthikeya), Lord Vinayaka, Kalabhairavar, Avimukteshwar, Lord Vishnu, Virupaksha, Virupaksha Gauri and Lord Shaneeshwara.

There are three distinct regions of the temple – the first is a spire over the temple of Lord Vishwanath, the second is a golden dome and the third is a spire with a trident and a flag atop it. The temple has a Sabha Griha that leads to the Garbha Griha where the Linga is housed.

The holy River Ganga flows beside the temple increasing the spiritual value of the temple by manifolds. Kashi Vishwanath Temple plays an important role in Hindu mythology and has been mentioned innumerable times in scriptures like Skanda Purana, Shiva Purana, the Upanishads, and in the Vedas.

What are the festivals celebrated at Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Rangbhari Ekadashi Kashi Vishwanath
Celebration of the Rangbhari Ekadashi at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Although the Kashi Vishwanath Temple celebrates almost all the festivals such as, Ramnavami, Hanuman Jayanti, Dussehra, Holi, and Janmashtami with great pomp and fare, there are some festivals which are extremely important at this temple.

Some major festivals celebrated at Kashi Vishwanath Temple are:

  • Mahashivaratri: The festival is celebrated on the 13th night and the 14th day of the month of Maagha (February /March). The Linga of Lord Shiva is bathed with Ganga water, applied with Chandan paste, and offered Bilva leaves, bhang, datura, flowers, coconut, fruits, and cow milk. People keep fast for the whole day and do Shiva Pooja at their homes. Taking a dip in the River Ganga on Mahashivaratri is considered extremely sacred.
  • Makar Sankranti: The devotees take a dip in River Ganga and pray to the Sun God on this day. The day signifies the ascent of the sun and the beginning of spring. The day is dedicated to a good harvest in the agricultural terms. On the day of the festival, thousands of kites are flown in the Varanasi skyline, which is an enthralling experience to have.
  • Shravan Maas: The month of Shravan (June-July) is considered to be the holy month of the Hindu calendar. Special decorations and special poojas are performed for Lord Shiva on every Monday. On the first Monday, Lord Shiva is decorated, on the second, both Shiva and Parvati’s idols are decorated. On the third and the fourth Monday, Lord Ardhanarishwar and Sri Rudrakshaya are worshiped.
  • Dev Deepawali: The festival means “The Diwali of the Gods.” The festival is celebrated in the month of Karthik Poornima, ten days after the festival of Diwali. The steps of all the ghats are lit with lamps in honor of the River Ganga. It is believed that Gods descend to the Earth to take a dip in the Ganga.
  • Rangbhari Ekadashi: The festival is celebrated in February –March. As per legend, the consummation of the marriage between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati happened on this day. The devotees carry the idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in a Palki from the house of the Mahant of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and take them to the sanctum of the temple and are decorated with gulaal and rose petals.

How to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

  • Air: The nearest airport to the city is Babatpur, which is 22 km from Varanasi. Direct flights are operated by Air India as well as other private airlines from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Agra, Bhubaneswar, and Lucknow.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Varanasi Junction or the Mughal Sarai Junction. Several trains connect the city to almost all major parts of the country like Delhi, Chennai, Howrah, Jammu, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Guwahati.
  • Road: The city is located on NH2 highway linking Kolkata to New Delhi. Several buses are available from places like Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, Kanpur, Allahabad, Patna, Nagpur, Gorakhpur, Azamgarh, and Gaya.

Varanasi (Kashi) is one of the seven Moksha Puris according to Hindu beliefs. The other six are Ayodhya, Mathura, Haridwar, Kanchipuram, Ujjain, and Dwarka-Somnath.

Where to stay nearby?

Numerous Government operated Guest Houses are available for accommodation for Government servants. Please visit the temple’s official website to see a list of the Government Guest Houses: shrikashivishwanath.org

Apart from these Guest Houses, there are several private hotels to accommodate yourself comfortably, within a reasonable budget. The hotels also offer express check-in and check-out, high-speed Internet, Wi-Fi, airport & railway pickup. The names of a few of them are:

  • Shiva Inn
  • Ganpati Guest House
  • Kanha Paying Guest House
  • BrijRama Palace – A Heritage Hotel

Where to eat nearby?

The city of Varanasi boasts of great food and culture. The traditional must-haves of the city’s culinary delights are Chaat items like Kachoris and Puris. The Kashi Kalakand is also a famous dessert here and is available widely. Lassi and Thandai are very popular drinks and are extremely cooling in the heat. The cuisine in Varanasi is mainly vegetarian with occasional but rare non-veg hotels.

What are some famous temples near Kashi Vishwanath?

Explore Varanasi
Varanasi is called the city of temples and Lord Shiva is said to be the city’s guardian deity.

Some temples near Kashi Vishwanath temple are:

  1. Kashi Vishalakshi Temple: The sacred temple is located behind the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths of Goddess Sati. It is believed that when her body was cut with Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra, her third eye (Aksha) and the earing (Manikarni) fell at this location and hence the name Visalakshi.
  2. The Kalbhairav Temple: The temple is situated 1 km away from the Kashi Vishwanath temple. As per the legend, when Lord Brahma lies about finding the end of the massive pillar of light, Lord Shiva gets angry and assumes the form of Kalbhairav. He cut off one of the five heads of Brahma. However, the decapitation made Lord Shiva guilty of the crime of killing. He carried the head of Brahma and roamed around as a Bhikshatana until his sin was forgiven. The head was released from him after he reached Kashi. He is the guard of Kashi, and it is a belief that no one can enter Kashi without his permission.
  3. Markandey Mahadev Temple: The temple is located at Kaithi, Varanasi which is 29 km away from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. According to legend, a couple named Mrikandu and Marudvati prayed to Shiva to attain a son. Lord Shiva granted them a boon of a son who was eventually named Markandeya. He was extraordinarily intelligent in his childhood. He was always dedicated to Lord Shiva and master of the Mahamritunjaya Mantra. When he became 16, Yama came to take him. Markandeya prayed for the defense to Lord Shiva who defeated Yama and granted him the gift of immortality.
  4. Bharat Mata Mandir: This unique temple is located just 4 km away from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The temple is located inside the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth Campus. The unique feature is that the temple does not contain any idol of Gods and Goddesses. The Bharat Mata is worshiped here. A map of India can be seen in the sanctum to which offerings are made. Babu Shiv Prasad constructed the Temple and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936.
  5. Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple: The famous temple is located just 1 km away from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is believed that the Mrityunjay Mahadev is the “God who triumphs over death.” Devotees from all over the country come here to pray for a long and healthy life and against unnatural death. It is a belief that the well of the temple contains water with medicinal properties, and it can cure several ailments of the sick.
  6. Annapoorna Devi Mandir: The temple dedicated to Annapoorna Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati is located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is believed that Goddess Annapoorna is responsible for the nourishment of human souls. Anyone who worships her with devotion will never have any food shortages in his or her life.
  7. Tulsi Manas Mandir: The Tulsi Manas Mandir is dedicated to Lord Rama, Lakshman, and Sita. It is believed that the temple is constructed over the place where the saint Goswami Tulsidas wrote the epic Ramcharitramanas. The walls of the temple depict the scenes of the epic.
  8. The Ghat of Manikarnika: Situated on the banks of River Ganga, this ghat near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is considered to be a Shakti Peetha. The Shakti Peethas are the 52 places where parts of the body of Goddess Sati (Adi Parashakti), first wife of Lord Shiva, fell on Earth after being decapitated by Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra.

Apart from the above-mentioned temples, several other famous temples can also be visited in Varanasi. Some of these temples are the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, the Durga Temple, The Vyas Temple, The Birla Temple, The Tilbhandeshwar Temple, and The Sarnath Temple.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is free of cost.

Can anyone enter the temple?

Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple.

Is there any Online Darshan facility available?

Yes, please visit the website shrikashivishwanath.org for Online Darshan.

How to book and make arrangements for a Havan/ Yajna?

For booking Yajna Shala, please visit the official temple website: shrikashivishwanath.org

Can one carry mobiles and gadgets into the temple?

No. All electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited (viz. mobile, camera, laptop). They can be stored in lockers available. This facility is free of cost.

Is there any facility available for site seeing or nearby temple visit?

No, there are no such facilities provided by the temple.

What is the ideal time to visit Kashi Vishwanath?

The months of October to March are perfect to visit the temple as the weather is pleasant and is not too hot to travel during the daytime.

What is the weather like during summers?

The summers at Kashi start from March and continue until May. The summers here can be hot. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 38 º C.

What are winters like in Varanasi?

In Kashi, winters start in November and continue until February. The temperatures during this time range from around 12 º C to 24 º C. The weather during this time is cool and dry.

If you have any questions about The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Parli Vaijnath Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Parli Vaijnath Temple or Parli Vaidyanath Temple is located in Parli, in the state of Maharashtra and belongs to the celebrated list of 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva. The Vaijnath Temple Linga is also popular as Dhanavantari and Amriteshwari. The Linga consists of the Saligram stone and has a very smooth surface.

Planning to visit this temple? Have look at our Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra Tour Package.

Parli Vaijnath Temple – Facts

Deity Lord Vaijnath (Lord Shiva)
Location Parli, Maharashtra
Significance Jyotirlinga
Tours 5 Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra Tour
Darshan Timings 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
PoojasRudrabhisek
Entry FeeGeneral Darshan – Free
VIP Darshan – Rs. 150/- per person
Best Time to VisitJune to August
FestivalsShravan Maas, Mahashivratri
Nearest AirportNanded
Nearest Railway Station Parli
Jyotirlingas in
Maharashtra 		Sri Aundha Nagnath, Sri Trimbakeshwar,
Sri Grishneshwar, Sri Bhimashankar
Parli Vaijnath Temple Video

Parli Vaijnath Temple is one of the 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra. The other 4 Jyotirlingas are:

The 5 Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra

What are the timings of Parli Vaijnath Temple?

Parli Vaijnath temple opens at 5:00 AM in the morning and closes at 9:00 PM in the evening. The temple also performs various rituals during this time. The devotees can be a part of these rituals such as aarti and poojas.

The timings of the Parli Vaijnath Temple are as follows:

Rituals Timings
Darshan5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Abhishek5:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Afternoon Pooja1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Bhasma Pooja3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

What is the significance of Parli Vaijnath Temple?

Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga
The Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga is said to be the last among all the Jyotirlingas.

People believe that since Lord Vishnu hid both the Amrit and the Dhanavantari in the Linga,  anyone who touches the Linga can receive the power of Amrit. Parli is also a meeting place of Hari Hara. Festivals of both Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Shiva) are celebrated here.

Devotees are allowed to touch the Parli Vaijnath Linga during worshipping and this helps in healing and reaping various health benefits. In fact, devotees themselves perform the Abhisheka here and they use the Bilva leaves purchased outside the Parli Vaijnath Temple precincts.

Devotees from all walks of life, castes, and religion are welcome to visit this sacred Parli Vaijnath Temple. There is absolutely no discrimination. According to Puranas, Lord Vaidhyanath blessed sage Markandeya and he became immortal.

Rani Ahilyabai brought in special stones from the Trishul Devi mountain range for the Parli Vaijnath renovation. A minaret outside the Parli Vaijnath has special Gwakshas (windows). When the sun’s rays pass through the windows, they fall directly on the Shiva Linga. at this time, the priests offer special prayers and poojas to the Sun God.

The waters of the nearby Harihara Teerth is brought to the Parli Vaijnath daily for the Linga pooja.

What is the history of Parli Vaijnath Temple?

The history of Parli Vaijnath Temple is that it was built in the 1700s. It was renovated by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, the Queen of the Maratha Malwa Kingdom at that time. Two very popular legends are associated with this temple. One legend talks about the Amrit and the other talks about the demon king Ravana and his quest to own Shiva.

Legend of the Amrit

Samudra Manthan
The Samudra Manthan was the churning of the Ocean of Milk and out came 14 ratnas, including Vish and Amrit.

When the Gods and Demons were churning the ocean and competing for the Divine Nectar or Amrit, fourteen gems emerged from the process. It included Dhanavantari and Amrit.

Just as the demons were about to pounce on the Amrit, Lord Vishnu grabbed both Dhanwantri and Amrit and hid them inside a Shiva Linga. The angered demons tried to break the Linga, but when they touched it bright light emanated. This scared the demons and they fled from the place.

Since this is the place where the Devas successfully received the Amrit, the village became popular as Vaijayanthi and therefore the temple as Parli Vaijnath.

Legend of Ravana and Shiva Linga

The demon King Ravana did severe penance and even cut off his heads to please Lord Shiva. Moved by his sacrifice, Lord Shiva offered several boons, and Ravana requested that Lord Shiva come to Lanka. The Lord accepted and instructed Ravana to carry his Shiva Linga and warned him not to keep it down anywhere till he reached his destination.

During the journey, Ravana wanted to take a break and instructed a shepherd to carry the Linga for a while. Unaware of the Lord’s instruction, the shepherd put the heavy Linga down for a brief moment. The Lord thus stayed there at the place and became popular as Vaidhyanath.

What are the sevas and poojas performed at Parli Vaijnath Temple?

The sevas and poojas that take place at Parli Vaijnath Temple are:

PoojaTimings
Somvar PoojaEvery Monday
Shadopachar5:00 AM
Shringar Pooja6:00 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at Parli Vaijnath Temple?

Mahashivaratri, Vaikunth Chaturdashi, Tripuri Pournima, Vijayadashami and Chaitra Padva are important festivals. There is a unique practice during these festivals – priests present Bilva leaves to Lord Vishnu, which is usually an offering to Shiva. Similarly, they offer the Tulsi leaves to Lord Shiva, which is usually an offering to Vishnu.

Some of the festivals celebrated at Parli Vaijnath are:

  • Shravan month: Shravan Maas falls on the fifth month of the Hindu calendar, starting late July and ending by the third week of August. During the Shravan Maas, the chanting of the Rudra Mantra echoes in the entire village of Parli.
  • Mahashivratri: It is the day when Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. It usually occurs in late February to early March.
  • Vijayadashami: Also known as Dussehra, this festival signifies the victory of good over evil and is celebrated after the nine days of Navratri.

How to Reach Parli Vaijnath Temple?

Here’s how to reach Parli Vaijnath:

  • Air: The nearest airport is in Nanded, 105 km from the Parli Vaijnath.
  • Train: The nearest station is Parli and is 2 km from the Parli Vaijnath. Direct trains operate from Secunderabad, Kakinada, Manmad, Vishakapatnam, and Bangalore.
  • Road: Several buses connect from Aurangabad, Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur and other nearby cities.

Where to stay near Parli?

There are a number of budget accommodations available at Parli where one can stay. You can also find accommodation in the state-run MTDC cottages.

Where to eat nearby?

Most of the hotels that offer accommodation also have in-house restaurants where travelers can eat. Restaurants can be found at the Parli Vaijnath temple area. Travelers usually choose to eat in Ambajogai area, which is 20 km away from the Parli Vaijnath, as one can find more restaurant options in this area.

What are some temples nearby?

Exploring Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra
There are four more Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra apart from the Parli Vaijanath Temple.

Some temples near Parli Vaijnath are:

  1. Yogeshwari Temple, Ambajogai: The Yogeshwari Temple is for Goddess Yogeshwari who married Parli Vaijnath. Puranas say that by the time the wedding party arrived at Parli, the auspicious time had passed and the entire party turned into stone. The Yogeshwari temple is 25 km from Ambajogai.
  2. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga Temple: The Aundha Nagnath Temple in the village of Aundha Nagnath in Maharashtra is the first of the Jyotirlingas. The temple is 118 km from the Parli Vaidhyanath temple.  Yudhishtra, the eldest of the Pandava brothers built the temple during their exile. It is a part of the well known 5 Jyotirlinga tour in Maharashtra.
  3. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple: The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple is near Pune and is 387 km from Parli Vaijnath. The Linga here is self-manifested and is one of the five Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra.
  4. Grisheshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Temple is located in Verul, Beed District, Maharashtra. This temple is the last of the Jyotirlingas and for devotees who undertake the Jyotirlingas pilgrimage, a visit to this temple completes their journey. Grishneshwar temple is 246 km from Parli.
  5. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: The Trimbakeshwar Temple is in the town of Trimbak, Nashik District, Maharashtra. The temple is 397 km from Vaijnath Temple. The Linga has three faces symbolizing Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma.

Frequently Asked Questions about Parli Vaijnath Temple

Is the Parli Vaijnath Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Parli Vaijnath Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Parli Vaijnath Temple is free of cost.

Can anyone visit the Parli Vaijnath temple?

Yes. Anyone from any caste, creed, and religion can offer their prayers at the temple.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

Which is the best time to visit the Parli Vaijnath Temple?

June to August are the months when the monsoon starts in Maharashtra. The weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time to visit the temple.

What is the weather like during the summer?

The summers at Maharashtra start from March and continues until June. The summers here can be very hot. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 36 º C.

What are winters like in Maharashtra?

In Maharashtra, winters start in November and continue until January. The temperatures during this time range from around 20 º C to 30 º C.

If you have any questions about the Parli Vaijnath Temple, please leave a comment below and we will get back to you within one hour.

Omkareshwar Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

, 23 Comments Filed Under: Jyotirlinga, Madhya Pradesh Temples Tagged With:

Omkareshwar Temple is situated near Indore, in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The name Omkareshwar comes from the word “OM“. Devotees believe that Omkareshwar Temple is the home of the fourth Jyotirlinga. River Narmada flows through Omkareshwar.

Planning to visit the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga? Have a look at our Mahakaleshwar Omkareshwar Tour Package.

Omkareshwar Temple – Facts

DeityLord Omkareshwar (Lord Shiva)
LocationMandhata, Madhya Pradesh
SignificanceJyotirlinga
ToursMahakaleshwar Omkareshwar Tour
Darshan Timings5:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry FeeFree
PoojasMaharudrabhisek, Laghurudrabhisek
Best Time to VisitOctober to March
FestivalsShravan, Shivratri
Jyotirlingas in Madhya PradeshOmkareshwar Jyotirlinga, Mahakaleshwar Temple
Omkaleshwar Temple Video

Omkareshwar Temple Timings

The temple opens at 5 AM and closes at 9:30 PM. The temple also performs various rituals during this time. The devotees can be a part of these rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening aarti.

The timings of the Omkareshwar temple are as follows:

TimingsFromTo
Morning Darshan5:00 AM3:50 PM
Evening Darshan4:15 PM9:30 PM
Mangal Aarti5:00 AM5:30 AM
Jalabhishek5:30 AM12:25 PM
Evening Aarti8:20 PM9:05 PM

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Poojas

Some of the sevas and poojas of Omkareshwar Temple are:

  • Maha Rudrabhishek: This Abhishekam takes place by reciting Rigveda, Samveda, Yajurveda and the Atharva Veda in front of the Linga.
  • Laghu Rudrabhishekham: Devotees believe that by doing this Pooja, one can overcome health as well as wealth related issues.
  • Narmada Aarti: Every evening a Maha Aarti takes place on the banks of River Narmada which is spectacular to view.
  • Bhagavan Bhog: During this, devotees present lord Shiva with a Naivedyam Bhog in the evening every day. The Bhog (food) consists of pure Ghee, Sugar, and Rice.
  • Mundan (Tonsure): Devotees can also perform a Mundan at a nominal price.

What is the significance of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga?

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is split in nature. One half of the Jyotirlinga is in the Omkareshwar Temple and the other half in the Mammaleshwar Temple. The pilgrims must visit both these temples to get a darshan of the complete Jyotirlinga. The Jyotirlingas are Swayambhu which means that they are self-born.

What is the history of the Omkareshwar Temple?

Nobody knows the original date of construction of this historic temple. However, the earliest evidence states that in 1063, King Udayaditya installed four stone inscriptions each with Sanskrit Stotras. In 1195, Raja Bharat Singh Chauhan renovated the temple and built a palace near it.

How to reach Omkareshwar?

Here’s how to reach:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Indore which is 77 km away.
  • Train: The nearest railway station is Mortakka which is 12 km away from Omkareshwar. The closest Railway Junction is Khandwa which is 72 km away.
  • Road: Regular bus services are available from cities like Indore, Ujjain, Jalgaon, Khandwa, and Bhopal.

Where to stay nearby?

There are about 50 Dharmashalas available in Omkareshwar to stay. Most of them are newly constructed and are equipped with modern amenities. The temple administration does not run any Dharmashala or Ashram. Some of the popular choices to stay are Shri Gajanan Mahajan Sansthan and the MP Narmada tourist bungalows.

Omkareshwar Temple is located near Indore

Frequently Asked Questions about Omkareshwar Temple

Is the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga open throughout the year?

Yes, the Omkareshwar Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee for Omkareshwar Temple?

The entry to the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available in Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens in Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

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