Omkareshwar Gauri Somnath Temple – Madhya Pradesh

Address

Omkareshwar Gauri Somnath Temple Mandhata, Madhya Pradesh 451115, Omkareshwar, India

Diety

Gauri Somnath Amman: Parvati

Introduction

Gauri Somnath Temple is a revered Shiva shrine located on Mandhata Island in Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the biggest temples in Omkareshwar, at a distance of 1 km from Omkareshwar Temple, and 2 km from Omkareshwar Bus Station.

Puranic Significance

Gauri Somnath Temple is believed to have been built in the 11th century AD and is one of several shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in Omkareshwar. The temple is very well known for its huge Shivlinga and statue of Nandi. Legend says that the temple lingam had the ability to show future births until it was damaged by Emperor Aurangzeb, after which the powers were lost forever. Gauri Somnath Temple has been constructed in the Bhumji style of architecture. The temple has three storeys and has the shape of a peahen. With its rising curvilinear tower and high platform, the temple has a striking resemblance to the Khajuraho temples. The sanctum sanctorum houses a gigantic six feet tall shiv linga made of a black stone with a shiny black texture. There is a sitting Nandi (Scared bull) of similar stone outside. Also, one can find the idol of Goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva, behind the linga. Visitors have to climb 200+ stairs, arising from the ghat, to reach the temple.

Special Features

Gauri Somnath Temple; the Khajuraho Temples in its design and artwork, Gauri Somnath Temple comprises a huge 6-feet linga which is made up of black stone. The linga is said to possess some predictive quality which adds to the fame of this Shiva temple.

Festivals

Maha Shivrathri in February-March

Century/Period/Age

11th century AD

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Omkareshwar

Nearest Railway Station

Omkareshwar Road

Nearest Airport

Indore

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