Omkareshwara Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the town of Madikeri in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, India. It was built in the 19th century by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II, the king of the Kingdom of Mysore, and is known for its unique blend of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture. The temple is situated in the center of Madikeri and is one of the major landmarks of the town. It is a popular tourist destination and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
History of Omkareshwara Temple
According to legend, the Omkareshwara Temple was built in the 19th century by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II, the king of the Kingdom of Mysore, to atone for the sin of killing a Brahmin. It is said that the king had a dream in which Lord Shiva appeared to him and ordered him to build a temple in his honor in Madikeri. The king followed the divine command and built the Omkareshwara Temple at the site of the dream.
The temple is known for its unique blend of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture, with a blend of Hindu and Muslim motifs. The temple has a square-shaped sanctum sanctorum with a dome, which is surrounded by a pillared hall. The dome is decorated with intricate carvings and painted with bright colors. The temple also has a tank, which is believed to have healing powers.
The Omkareshwara Temple is an important religious and cultural site in Madikeri and is a popular tourist destination. It attracts thousands of visitors every year, who come to pray and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The temple is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Things to know about Omkareshwara Temple
Here are a few things you might want to know about the Omkareshwara Temple:
- The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most important deities in Hinduism.
- It was built in the 19th century by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II, the king of the Kingdom of Mysore, to atone for the sin of killing a Brahmin.
- The temple is known for its unique blend of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture, with a blend of Hindu and Muslim motifs.
- The temple has a square-shaped sanctum sanctorum with a dome, which is surrounded by a pillared hall. The dome is decorated with intricate carvings and painted with bright colors.
- The temple also has a tank, which is believed to have healing powers.
- It is an important religious and cultural site in Madikeri and is a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
- The temple is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Visitors are expected to follow certain rules when visiting the temple, such as removing their shoes before entering the temple premises and dressing modestly.
Things to do at Omkareshwara Temple
Here are a few things you can do at the Omkareshwara Temple:
- Visit the temple to pray and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
- Admire the unique blend of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture of the temple.
- Take a dip in the tank, which is believed to have healing powers.
- Learn about the history and cultural significance of the temple from the priests or tour guides.
- Take a walk around the temple premises and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
- Purchase souvenirs from the shops located near the temple.
- Enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forests from the temple.
- Visit the temple during special festivals and celebrations, such as Shivaratri, when the temple is decorated with lights and flowers and there are cultural programs and other events organized.
How to reach Omkareshwara Temple
The Omkareshwara Temple is located in the town of Madikeri in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, India. Here are a few ways you can reach the temple:
- By air: The nearest airport to Madikeri is the Mangalore International Airport, which is located about 140 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Madikeri.
- By train: The nearest railway station to Madikeri is the Mysore Railway Station, which is located about 120 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Madikeri.
- By bus: Madikeri is well connected to major cities in Karnataka by road. There are regular bus services available from cities such as Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore to Madikeri.
- By car: Madikeri is located on National Highway 275 and is easily accessible by car. It is about 260 kilometers from Bangalore and 120 kilometers from Mysore. You can hire a taxi or drive your own car to reach the temple.
Once you reach Madikeri, the Omkareshwara Temple is located in the center of the town and is easily accessible by foot.
Hotels Near Omkareshwara temple
Here are a few hotels located near the Omkareshwara Temple in Madikeri:
- Hotel Coorg International: Located about 0.3 kilometers from the temple, this hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites with modern amenities.
- The Tamara Coorg: Located about 4 kilometers from the temple, this luxury resort offers a range of cottages and villas with private pools, as well as a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- Hotel Coorg Regency: Located about 0.5 kilometers from the temple, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private balconies and a restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine.
- Hotel Vikas: Located about 0.6 kilometers from the temple, this hotel offers spacious rooms with private balconies and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
- Hotel Mayura Valley View: Located about 1 kilometer from the temple, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private balconies and a restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine.
These are just a few options, and there are many other hotels and resorts to choose from in the Madikeri area.
Places to visit around Omkareshwara temple
Madikeri is a picturesque hill town located in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, India, and is surrounded by beautiful forests, hills, and waterfalls. Here are a few places to visit near the Omkareshwara Temple:
- Raja’s Seat: Located about 2 kilometers from the temple, this is a popular tourist spot known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Abbey Falls: Located about 8 kilometers from the temple, this is a scenic waterfall located in a coffee plantation. It is a popular spot for picnics and trekking.
- Madikeri Fort: Located about 1 kilometer from the temple, this is a historic fort built by the king of Kodagu in the 17th century. It houses a museum displaying artifacts and antiques from the region.
- Talacauvery: Located about 48 kilometers from the temple, this is a sacred Hindu site where the river Cauvery is believed to originate. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
- Nagarhole National Park: Located about 80 kilometers from the temple, this is a beautiful national park known for its rich wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. It is a popular spot for safari tours.
These are just a few options, and there are many other places to visit in and around Madikeri, such as the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement, the Dubare Elephant Camp, and the Bhagamandala Temple.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Omkareshwara temple
Q. What is the Omkareshwara Temple?
A – The Omkareshwara Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the town of Madikeri in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, India. It was built in the 19th century by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II, the king of the Kingdom of Mysore, and is known for its unique blend of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture.
Q. What are the visiting hours for the Omkareshwara Temple?
A – The Omkareshwara Temple is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Q. Is photography allowed at the Omkareshwara Temple?
A – Photography is generally allowed at the Omkareshwara Temple, but it is always best to check with the temple authorities before taking photographs.
Q. Are there any rules to follow when visiting the Omkareshwara Temple?
A – Visitors are expected to follow certain rules when visiting the Omkareshwara Temple, such as removing their shoes before entering the temple premises and dressing modestly. It is also advisable to follow the instructions of the priests or temple staff.
Q. Are there any hotels located near the Omkareshwara Temple?
A – Yes, there are several hotels located near the Omkareshwara Temple in Madikeri. Some options include Hotel Coorg International, The Tamara Coorg, Hotel Coorg Regency, Hotel Vikas, and Hotel Mayura Valley View.