Omkareshwar has long been revered as a sacred locale by Hindus, nestled alongside the life-giving River Narmada. If you are wondering about the top things to do in Omkareshwar to find spirituality, there is much to explore. Situated in the shape of the ancient symbol “Om,” the island is renowned for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. Home to the venerable Omkareshwar Temple, countless pilgrims seek respite from this bustling world. For those seeking peace through history and nature, this island in the Narmada Valley beautifully blends the past with the present.
Top 8 Things To Do In Omkareshwar
This list highlights the best things to do in Omkareshwar, showcasing the city’s diverse charm and heritage.
1. Visit The Omkareshwar Temple
Photo: YashiWong / Wikimedia Commons
Perched prominently upon Mandhata Island and surrounded mystically by the reverent Narmada River’s waters, Omkareshwar Temple has long been considered among India’s one of the holiest places—one of twelve sacred Jyotirlingas. Pilgrims flock daily by the thousands to this ancient site, drawn inexorably to the spiritual magnetism emanating from its sacred lingam, said to encapsulate the very essence of divinity. For centuries, this venerable architecture has witnessed endless generations of devoted souls seeking spiritual succour during life’s journey. Exploring this temple is undoubtedly one of the top things to see in Omkareshwar.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
2. Explore The Mamleshwar Temple
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Nearby also lies the tranquil Mamleshwar Temple, situated upon the mainland and traditionally viewed as Omkareshwar’s heavenly counterpart. Renowned for its intricate stonework, Mamleshwar exudes an aura of serene reflection. Many pilgrims traverse between these twin temples of faith, believing the experience of visiting both shrines doubles the religious rewards of their sacred sojourn. It holds equal spiritual significance and is a must-visit for those exploring what to do in Omkareshwar.
Best Time To Visit: October to December
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
3. Get Spiritual At Siddhanath Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
‘Siddhanath temple’ is situated on the bank of the river Narmada, in Hoshangabad district The temple has stone sculpture and stonework which is adorned splendidly in a refreshing look. Unlike the rush coming in the causal holy places of Omkareshwar, this sanctum echoed of sheer solitude. Unlike other Omkareshwar temples, this place was not so crowded, and many people came to the temple just to meditate. Exploring Siddhanath Temple is one of the best things to do in Omkareshwar for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
4. Experience Divinity At Gauri Somnath Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
Renowned for its colossal Shiva lingam towering nearly six feet skyward, Gauri Somnath Temple attracts pilgrims and sightseers alike to its ancient edifice. A short distance from the city’s bustle lies a place of worship overlooking the Narmada’s flowing waters, where one can lose oneself in prayer’s reverie or history’s enduring tales. Visiting this temple is a significant part of experiencing things to see in Omkareshwar.
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
5. See The Kedareshwar Temple
Photo: Avinash Rohra / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled peacefully along the Narmada is the Kedareswar Temple. Its garden surroundings and river views provide a haven for reflection and meditation, unlike the crowded venues of other temples. Here tourists could get engaged with the river currents and find the beauty of Omkareshwar and the message of the town. This serene setting makes it one of the best things to do in Omkareshwar for those seeking solitude.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
6. Boat Ride At Narmada River
Photo: Dusanesurbhi / Wikimedia Commons
As the Hindu faith maintains, the sacred Narmada has long cleansed both body and soul through its healing waters. Its picturesque shores unveil breathtaking panoramas during scenic boat tours, including glimpses of the storied Om-shaped isle surrounded by natural splendor. These boat rides, particularly during sunrise or sunset, are among the great things to do in Omkareshwar.
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
7. Do Omkareshwar Parikrama
Photo: Bhushan Joshi / Wikimedia Commons
Omkareshwar Parikrama is a pilgrimage around the relatively Om-shaped island, a sacred path pilgrims stride to absorb the spiritual energy emanating from this revered place. Along with the inner fulfillment gained, the route offers mesmerizing panoramas of the sacred Narmada River and its surrounding temples in varied grandeur. Completing the parikrama is a significant aspect of experiencing what to do in Omkareshwar.
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
8. Visit The Kajal Rani Cave
Photo: IssamBarhoumi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Deep within the forests, a short distance from Omkareshwar’s main town, lies the not-so-known Kajal Rani Cave. It provides those willing to seek it out with arresting vistas of the encompassing terrain. Sheltering introspective solace, nature’s recluses wandering in its dimly lit spaces may encounter transcendent reflections on life’s brevities. Visiting this cave is one of the interesting activities to do in Omkareshwar for those looking to escape the hustle of the main attractions.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Omkareshwar unites spiritual sanctity, antiquated temples eminent in religious history, and natural splendours, leaving many an insightful impression on visiting souls. Additionally, any pilgrim can explore the ethereal natural beauty of the sacred Narmada River and its riverside temples of intricate design or hidden places of refuge, such as the secluded Kajal Rani Cave. Through such cultural and spiritual riches, Omkareshwar continues to be a site of annual significance and reverence. Plan your trip now with TripXL to discover the wonders of Omkareshwar.
Cover Photo: Lokesh Mundra / Wikimedia Commons