Narmada River Parikrama
Narmada River Parikrama is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India. This holy journey involves going around the entire Narmada River. Pilgrims follow the river on both its northern and southern banks. Unlike other river pilgrimages where people visit just the source, the Narmada Parikrama covers the full length of the river.
What is Narmada Parikrama?
Narmada Parikrama is a circular journey starting from Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh, where the Narmada River begins. Pilgrims walk along the river’s banks and return to the starting point. Some devotees complete the entire journey on foot, while others choose vehicles like tempo travellers, cars, or buses to make the trip more comfortable.
Religious and Cultural Importance
The Narmada River is considered as holy as the Ganga. Many Hindus believe that the Narmada is a living goddess. Performing the Narmada Parikrama is said to wash away sins and bring spiritual growth. The tradition of Narmada Parikrama has been followed for centuries and is still practiced by many people with full devotion.
Historical Significance of Narmada Parikrama
Ancient Stories and Legends
There are many stories about the Narmada River in Hindu mythology. It is said that the Narmada was created from the sweat of Lord Shiva. One legend says that Lord Shiva’s tears gave birth to the river to purify the world. Another story says the Ganga River visits the Narmada to clean herself. Such stories show the high respect for this river.
Importance in Hindu Religion
The Narmada River Parikrama is special because the entire river is worshipped. It is not limited to a few temples. Saints like Ma Narmada, Adi Shankaracharya, and Tulsidas have written about the importance of this journey. Some people even say that the benefits of Narmada Parikrama are greater than visiting many temples.
Narmada River Parikrama Route
Starting and Ending Points
The Narmada Parikrama mostly starts and ends at Amarkantak, where the river originates. Some pilgrims also begin from Omkareshwar.
Major Cities and Villages on the Route
The Parikrama passes through many important places, including:
- Dindori
- Jabalpur (Gwarighat, Bhedaghat)
- Hoshangabad (Narmada Ghats)
- Omkareshwar (Jyotirlinga Temple)
- Maheshwar (Ahilyabai Fort and Ghats)
- Barwani
- Bharuch
- Narmada Nagar
Pilgrims also travel through small villages, forests, ghats, and tribal areas.
Total Distance Covered in Narmada Parikrama
The total Parikrama covers about 3300 km. Pilgrims walk around 1600 km on each bank, including crossing points.
Walking Time: Around 3 to 4 months
By Vehicle: Around 10 to 20 days depending on the journey plan
Read More: Ujjain to Omkareshwar Tour
Best Time to Do Narmada Parikrama
Ideal Weather Conditions
The best time to do the Parikrama is when the weather is not too hot or rainy. The winter and early summer seasons are perfect for this journey.
Recommended Months
The best months are from October to March. The monsoon season from July to September should be avoided because the river overflows and many paths may become dangerous.
How to Start Narmada Parikrama
By Walking
Many devotees complete the Parikrama by walking. This is a long journey and takes a lot of physical strength and patience. Walking is seen as more spiritual and is considered a deep form of devotion.
By Vehicle
For people who do not have enough time or those who cannot walk long distances, travelling by vehicle is a good option. You can hire a tempo traveller, car, or bus to make the journey more comfortable.
Ac Tempo Traveller Hire provides clean and safe tempo travellers for the Narmada Parikrama. We offer Maharaja tempo travellers for small and large groups with experienced drivers who know the full route.
Best Places to Visit During Narmada Parikrama
Omkareshwar Temple: A famous Jyotirlinga and a must-visit temple.
Maheshwar: Known for beautiful ghats, Ahilyabai Fort, and Maheshwari sarees.
Amarkantak: The starting point of the Narmada River surrounded by forests.
Narmada Udgam Sthal: The exact origin point of the river.
Gwarighat and Bhedaghat (Jabalpur): Known for beautiful marble rocks and river Aarti.
Hoshangabad: Famous for its peaceful ghats and evening Aarti.
Barwani and Bharuch: Important towns along the river with rich cultural value.
Narmada Parikrama Tour Package Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Amarkantak
Visit the Narmada Udgam Temple.
Explore nearby waterfalls like Kapil Dhara and Dudh Dhara.
Attend evening Aarti on the riverbank.
Day 2: Amarkantak to Dindori (140 km)
Visit tribal villages along the way.
Meet sadhus and spend time near the river.
Day 3: Dindori to Jabalpur (150 km)
Attend Aarti at Gwarighat.
Visit Bhedaghat and enjoy a boat ride near marble rocks.
Day 4: Jabalpur to Hoshangabad (270 km)
Visit Sethani Ghat and local temples.
Enjoy the peaceful river view and local markets.
Day 5: Hoshangabad to Omkareshwar (245 km)
Visit the famous Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple.
Explore the Om-shaped island and attend evening Aarti.
Day 6: Omkareshwar to Maheshwar (65 km)
Visit Ahilyabai Fort, Maheshwar ghats, and temples.
Explore local saree weaving shops and enjoy a river sunset.
Day 7: Maheshwar to Barwani (135 km)
Visit small riverside temples and peaceful village ghats.
Rest and interact with local villagers.
Day 8: Barwani to Bharuch (300 km)
Explore the historic town of Bharuch.
Visit the Golden Bridge and local ghats.
Attend Gujarati-style river Aarti.
Day 9: Bharuch to Narmada Nagar (120 km)
Visit Sardar Sarovar Dam View Point.
Spend peaceful time at river ghats.
Day 10: Return to Amarkantak (600 km)
Travel back to Amarkantak.
Complete final rituals and prayers to end the Parikrama.
Ac Tempo Traveller Hire offers personalized tour packages for this route. Our tempo travellers are safe, budget-friendly, and perfect for both small and large groups.
Accommodation and Food Options
Stay Options: Dharmshalas, ashrams, budget hotels, and temple guest houses are available on the route.
Food: Simple vegetarian meals are commonly served. Free meals (Bhandara) are often available at temples and by local communities.
Booking your trip with Ac Tempo Traveller Hire can help you find safe and clean accommodation. We have local contacts and can assist in arranging stays.
Safety Tips for Narmada Parikrama
Always carry enough drinking water and snacks.
It is safer to travel in groups.
Rest when you feel tired and listen to your body.
Hire local guides for safe navigation.
Carry mosquito repellent and basic medicines.
Estimated Cost of Narmada Parikrama Tour
Walking Parikrama Budget
Daily cost: Rs. 200 to Rs. 500 for food and basic stay.
Total cost: Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 50,000 depending on your choices.
Vehicle Tour Budget
Tempo Traveller cost: Rs. 25 to Rs. 30 per km.
Total package: Around Rs. 1,50,000 to Rs. 2,50,000 for 10 days including vehicle, fuel, tolls, and driver charges.
Ac Tempo Traveller Hire offers affordable packages with clear pricing and experienced drivers who know the full route.
Conclusion
Narmada Parikrama is a journey that connects you with faith, peace, and nature. It is a life-changing experience whether you walk or travel by vehicle.
If you are planning this sacred journey, Ac Tempo Traveller Hire can make your trip safe, comfortable, and worry-free. We offer tempo traveller services all over India with experienced drivers and flexible tour plans.
Let us help you complete your Narmada Parikrama in a smooth and peaceful way.
