Parikrama Route
In Omkareshwar, devotees perform the parikrama (circumambulation) of Bhagwan Omkareshwar and Mandhata Mountain, carrying Narmada water with the intention of fulfilling their wishes. The parikrama path is approximately 7 kilometers long, and along the way, there are several temples and archaeological monuments that are of significant religious importance. Below are some of these notable sites:
Rin Mukteshwar Temple
Located at the confluence of the Kaveri and Narmada rivers, this temple is dedicated to relieving devotees from debts (both current and past lives). It is believed that anyone who offers chickpeas with devotion here is freed from all debts.
Gauri Somnath Temple
This is a beautifully designed temple in the shape of a star. It houses a massive 6-foot-high black stone Shivalinga, which is considered very ancient. A statue of Nandi, made from the same black stone, is located outside the temple. According to British Colonel James Todd, this temple was destroyed by Aurangzeb during medieval times.
Siddhnath Temple
An impressive architectural structure, the Siddhnath Temple was declared a protected monument by British Bhagwan Curzon. Located on a plateau of the island, it is supported by a massive stone base and features 50 statues of elephants, each about 5 feet tall, carved with intricate details. Two of these statues are preserved in the Nagpur museum, while others are damaged. The central part of the temple has four entrances and features a unique assembly hall with 18 columns, each 14 feet high, adorned with beautiful carvings. This temple, with its five spires, would have once been a magnificent sight.
Aashapuri Devi Temple
For centuries, the Mandhata region has been managed by the Rao family, and the Aashapuri Devi Temple is dedicated to their family deity as well as the revered goddess of the local tribal community. The idol of the goddess here is considered very beautiful, and regular worship is conducted with all due rituals.
Chand Suraj and Bhim Arjun Dwaar
These are ancient remnants along the parikrama path. They seem to be ruins of buildings from an ancient civilization, adding to the historical significance of the area.