Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is situated on Mandhata Island on the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh. This sacred temple is extremely significant to Hindu pilgrims and welcomes tourists from all over India. The island is of the shape of the Hindu symbol ‘Om,’ and therefore, it is a special and peculiar spot for spiritual travelers.
If you’re going on a tour from Delhi to Omkareshwar, the closest big city is Indore. You can travel by train or flight to Indore and then drive for around 80 km by road to Omkareshwar. Road driving from Indore will take around 2.5 to 3 hours. Most travelers take Tempo Travellers or taxis for a smooth ride particularly on family or group tours.
Omkareshwar is a serene town where you will find intense devotion while experiencing scenic vistas of the Narmada River. It is the best place for people looking for a quiet and spiritual experience.
1. Distance from Delhi to Omkareshwar
The road distance from Delhi to Omkareshwar is approximately 900 km. It takes around 16 to 18 hours by Tempo Traveller or car. If you are going by flight or train, your overall travel time will depend on your route and the number of stops you make.
2. How to Reach Omkareshwar from Delhi?
Omkareshwar can be reached in different ways from Delhi. You can travel by train, flight, road or by mixing two or more means of transport.
Option 1: By Train
No direct train is available to Omkareshwar but you can travel up to nearby stations and then travel by road.
Step-by-Step Train Route
Step 1: Take a train to Indore Junction or Khandwa Railway Station from Delhi.
Step 2: From Indore, which is around 77 km and from Khandwa, which is around 65 km, you can take a taxi, bus or Tempo Traveller to Omkareshwar.
Trains that are popular from Delhi
Malwa Express (12919) – Indore from Delhi
Nizamuddin Indore Intercity Express (12416)
Punjab Mail (12138) – Khandwa from Delhi
Train travel is convenient for groups and families. It usually takes between 14 and 17 hours. It is also more budget friendly than flights.
Option 2: By Flight
Omkareshwar does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is in Indore.
Step-by-step flight Route
Step 1: Take a direct flight from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to Indore’s Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport.
Step 2: Go to Omkareshwar by taxi, cab or Tempo Traveller from Indore.
Flight Duration
A flight from Delhi to Indore is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The road from Indore to Omkareshwar is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
It is the most convenient and fastest way to travel. It is suitable for children traveling in a group or for elderly people.
Option 3: By Road
Most pilgrims like to travel by road. You can hire a Tempo Traveller, taxi or drive your car.
Delhi to Omkareshwar Route
Delhi → Agra → Gwalior → Shivpuri → Guna → Indore → Omkareshwar
Distance – Approx. 900 km
Travel time – 16 to 18 hours depending on traffic and number of stops
You may stop at Agra or Gwalior for lunch or sightseeing. By road, you have greater control over your time and greater flexibility.
Vehicle Choices
Tempo Traveller – Suitable for big families or groups.
Private Car – Suitable for small families.
Bus – You may board a public or private bus from Delhi to Indore and then switch transport to get to Omkareshwar.
Read More: A Road Trip From Indore to Omkareshwar
3. Most Suitable Way to Travel with Family or Group
When you are travelling in a group of friends or family the most convenient option is to rent a Tempo Traveller. It has sufficient space for all of them and additional space for luggage. You can take your own breaks and travel at your leisure.
A Tempo Traveller is also an ideal option if you wish to visit other nearby temples as well during your tour. For instance Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga at Ujjain is located some 130 km from Omkareshwar and can be easily incorporated in your travel itinerary.
4. Accommodation in Omkareshwar
Omkareshwar has numerous affordable and mid-range accommodations. All hotels, dharamshalas and lodges are close to the temple and Narmada River. Rates begin from approximately ₹300 and reach ₹1500 based on location and amenities.
Popular stay options:
MP Tourism Narmada Resort – From ₹1200 per night with AC rooms and river view.
Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan Bhakt Niwas – From ₹600 per night serene and clean.
Jain Dharamshala – Starting from ₹300 per night basic stay for pilgrims.
Geeta Bhavan Dharamshala – Starting from ₹350 per night in close proximity to ghat.
Hotel Shri Radhe Krishna – Starting from ₹700 per night private rooms with basic comfort.
Yatri Lodge – Starting from ₹500 per night ideal for family.
Hotel Om Shiva Palace – Starting from ₹800 per night in close proximity to the temple and group friendly.
Advance booking is advisable during peak seasons such as Mahashivratri, Shravan month and weekends.
Read More: Mahakaleshwar Temple Ujjain Guide – Travel, Stay, Aarti info
5. Local Transport in Omkareshwar
There is easy movement around Omkareshwar. The temples and sites are nearby so most of the places can be walked to. For local trips, you can take local transport.
Options:
Auto rickshaw – From ₹30 onwards
Cycle rickshaw – ₹20 to ₹50 per trip
Boat ride – Begins from ₹50 for river crossing or going to Mandhata Hill
On foot – Suited for temples and ghats around
Private taxi or Tempo Traveller – Suited for group travel or exploring nearby towns
6. Places Near Omkareshwar
Omkareshwar is the star attraction but there are a few places around worth visiting.
Maheshwar (65 km) – Famous for Ahilya Fort, ancient temples and Maheshwari sarees. The fort is a wonderful sight of the river.
Mandu (80 km) – Renowned for its forts, palaces and Jahaz Mahal. Good place for history enthusiasts and photographers.
Barwaha (42 km) – A quiet town with temples and river banks. Suitable for a brief halt.
Khandwa (70 km) – Where Kishore Kumar, the famous singer was born. Has a lake and temples.
Indore (77 km) – A bustling city with Rajwada Palace, Lal Bagh Palace and street food at Sarafa Bazaar.
7. Delhi to Omkareshwar Suggested Travel Plan for 3 Days
Day 1: Delhi to Indore
Catch an early morning flight from Delhi to Indore that lasts for 1.5 hours. The train takes 12 to 14 hours. Overnight stay at Indore and indulge in local cuisine such as Poha and Jalebi in the night.
Day 2: Indore to Omkareshwar
Travel by road from Indore to Omkareshwar which is 80 km and 2.5 hours. See the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and Mamleshwar Temple. Take a boat ride on the Narmada River and watch the evening aarti. Overnight at Omkareshwar.
Day 3: Return
Morning visit Gauri Somnath Temple or walk on the ghats. Return to Indore and board your train or flight to Delhi.
8. Conclusion
Travel between Delhi and Omkareshwar is not a problem as there are plenty of transport options. If you wish to travel fast and comfortably travel by flight to Indore and then by road. Travel by train for budget travelling. If you prefer a private and flexible travel book a Tempo Traveller or drive your own vehicle.
Regardless of which option you decide the trip to Omkareshwar will bestow peace, spiritual power and blessings upon you. The sacred temple, the charm of the Narmada River and the peaceful surroundings make it an ideal destination for devotees and tourists alike.
