Omkareshwara Temple Coorg Madikeri Timings, Entry Fees, How to Reach
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka, India. Coorg is famous for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, wildlife, and culture. Coorg is also home to many ancient and sacred temples, which reflect the rich heritage and diversity of the region.
One such temple is the Omkareshwara Temple, which is located in Madikeri, the headquarters of Coorg district. The Omkareshwara Temple is a unique and historical temple, which was built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra II as an act of penance for killing a Brahmin. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses a Shiva Lingam that was brought from the holy town of Kashi.
The Omkareshwara Temple is a remarkable example of the fusion of Gothic and Islamic architectural styles. The temple has a dome in the center and four turrets at the corners, resembling a Muslim Dargah. The temple also has a large water tank in front of it, which is home to many colorful fish. The water tank adds to the beauty and tranquility of the temple premises.
If you are planning to visit the Omkareshwara Temple, you might be interested in knowing its timings, entry fees, and how to reach it. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit to this amazing temple. We will also share some tips and facts about the temple that will make your visit more enjoyable and memorable.
Consider reading: Best Tourist Places to Visit in Coorg
Omkareshwara Temple Coorg Timings and Entry Fee
When planning a visit to the Omkareshwara Temple Coorg, it’s essential to take note of the opening hours and entry fees. Here are the details you need to know:
- The temple opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 12:00 PM.
- In the evening, it reopens at 5:00 PM and remains accessible until 8:00 PM.
- There is no entry fee to visit the Omkareshwara Temple.
Plan your visit accordingly to experience the divine ambiance and architectural splendor of this sacred site.
Omkareshwara Temple Coorg History
Omkareshwara Temple Coorg is one of the oldest and most fascinating temples in Coorg, a hill station in Karnataka. The temple was built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra II, who ruled Coorg from 1811 to 1820. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of Hinduism.
But why did the king build this temple? What is the story behind it? And what makes the temple so unique in its architecture? Let’s find out.
The Legend of Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
According to the legend, King Lingarajendra II was a cruel and ambitious ruler, who wanted to expand his kingdom by any means. He did not hesitate to kill anyone who came in his way, even if they were innocent or pious.
One such victim was a Brahmin, a member of the priestly caste in Hinduism. The king killed the Brahmin for some political reason, but this act of sin had a terrible consequence. The Brahmin’s spirit turned into a Brahmarakshasa, a fierce and vengeful ghost, who started haunting the king day and night.
The king was tormented by nightmares and could not find peace. He sought the advice of some learned men, who told him that the only way to appease the Brahmin’s spirit was to build a temple for Lord Shiva and install a Shiva Lingam, a sacred symbol of Shiva, in it.
The king followed their suggestion and ordered the construction of a temple. He also sent some of his men to the holy city of Kashi, also known as Varanasi, to bring a Shiva Lingam from there. The Shiva Lingam was named Omkareshwara, meaning “the Lord of Om”, a sacred sound in Hinduism.
The king installed the Shiva Lingam in the temple and performed a special ritual to pacify the Brahmin’s spirit. He also inscribed the history of the temple on a copper plate and fixed it on the entrance door frame. The legend says that this put an end to the king’s nightmares and he regained his peace of mind.
Consider reading: Omkareshwara Jyotirlinga Temple
The Architecture of Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
The Omkareshwara Temple Coorg is not only a place of worship, but also a marvel of architecture. The temple reflects a unique blend of Gothic and Islamic styles, which is rare to find in India.
The temple has a dome in the center and four minarets at the corners, resembling a Muslim Dargah, a shrine built over the grave of a saint. The temple also has four small domes on the roof, which add to its beauty.
The temple has a large water tank in front of it, which is home to many colorful fish. The water tank has a mantapa, a pillared hall, in the middle, which is connected by a walkway. The mantapa has a small shrine with a statue of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and success.
The temple has a simple and elegant interior, with a sanctum sanctorum where the Shiva Lingam is installed. The temple also has a Nandi, a bull statue, facing the Shiva Lingam. Nandi is the vehicle and the loyal companion of Lord Shiva.
The temple has a peaceful and serene atmosphere, where one can feel the presence of the divine. The temple is also a place of history and culture, where one can learn about the past and the present of Coorg.
What to Expect at Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
- Unique Architecture: Fusion of Islamic and Gothic styles creating a visually captivating structure.
- Spiritual Atmosphere: Feel a serene ambiance ideal for introspection and spiritual connection.
- Dedication to Lord Shiva: Witness devotion to this revered deity in the temple’s rituals and decorations.
- Divine Vibes: Experience a sense of peace and tranquility that envelops the premises.
- Visiting Hours: Open from 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offering flexibility for visitors.
- Free Entry: No entry fee required, making it accessible to all who wish to explore its cultural and architectural beauty.
Best Things to Do at Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
When visiting the Omkareshwara Temple Coorg, several activities can enhance your experience and appreciation of this sacred site:
- Explore the Architecture: Take in the unique blend of Islamic and Gothic styles in the temple’s design.
- Participate in Rituals: Witness or engage in the puja ceremonies that add to the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
- Admire the Decor: Appreciate the intricate carvings and ornaments that adorn the temple walls and pillars.
- Visit the Kalyani: Take a moment of reflection by the temple’s sacred tank, known as the Kalyani.
- Learn the History: Investigate into the historical significance of the temple and its place in Coorg’s cultural heritage.
- Enjoy the Peace: Meditate or simply soak in the tranquil ambiance that surrounds the temple premises.
- Capture the Beauty: Don’t forget to snap some photos of the stunning architectural details and serene surroundings.
By engaging in these activities, we can truly immerse ourselves in the rich history and spiritual essence of the Omkareshwara Temple in Coorg.
Best Time to Visit Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
- Weather: Coorg experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cool and ideal for exploration.
- Festivals: To immerse yourself in the local culture and witness vibrant celebrations, visit during Maha Shivaratri when the temple holds special ceremonies.
- Weekdays: Visiting on weekdays can help you avoid crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
- Early mornings: The temple is serene and tranquil in the early hours, offering a perfect time for quiet reflection and spirituality.
- Monsoon: Coorg’s monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery but also heavy rainfall, so plan accordingly if you enjoy the rain-washed beauty.
| Best Time to Visit | Highlights |
|---|---|
| October to March | Cool weather for exploration |
| Maha Shivaratri | Experience vibrant local festivals |
| Weekdays | Avoid crowds for a peaceful visit |
| Early mornings | Serene atmosphere for reflection |
| June to September | Lush greenery during the monsoon |
How to Reach Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
If you are planning to visit Omkareshwara Temple Coorg, you might be wondering how to reach it. The temple is located in Madikeri, the headquarters of Coorg district. Madikeri is well connected by road to various parts of Karnataka and Kerala. Here are some of the ways you can reach Omkareshwara Temple from different cities:
- From Bangalore: Bangalore is about 265 km away from Madikeri. You can take a bus, a cab, or a self-drive car to reach Madikeri. The journey takes about 6 hours by road. Many private and KSRTC buses run regularly from Bangalore to Madikeri. You can also book a cab online or offline from Bangalore to Madikeri. If you prefer to drive yourself, you can take the NH 275 or the NH 75 route to reach Madikeri.
- From Mysore: Mysore is about 120 km away from Madikeri. You can take a bus, a cab, or a self-drive car to reach Madikeri. The journey takes about 3 hours by road. Many private and KSRTC buses run regularly from Mysore to Madikeri. You can also book a cab online or offline from Mysore to Madikeri. If you prefer to drive yourself, you can take the SH 88 route to reach Madikeri.
- From Mangalore: Mangalore is about 140 km away from Madikeri. You can take a bus, a cab, or a self-drive car to reach Madikeri. The journey takes about 4 hours by road. Many private and KSRTC buses run regularly from Mangalore to Madikeri. You can also book a cab online or offline from Mangalore to Madikeri. If you prefer to drive yourself, you can take the NH 66 or the NH 275 route to reach Madikeri.
Once you reach Madikeri, you can easily find Omkareshwara Temple in the town. The temple is just 3 minutes away from the city center. You can either hire a local transport like an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the temple. Or you can simply walk to the temple premises from the city center.
| Distance to Major Locations | Approximate Distance |
|---|---|
| Mangalore | 140 km |
| Mysore | 120 km |
| Bangalore | 260 km |
Consider reading: Raja’s Seat Timings and Entry Fees
Places to Visit Near Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
When exploring Coorg, be sure to visit these nearby attractions for a well-rounded experience:
- Raja’s Seat: A charming garden with a stunning viewpoint to witness breathtaking sunsets.
- Madikeri Fort: Immerse yourselves in history at this majestic fort offering panoramic views.
- Abbey Falls: Admire the cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery.
- Talacauvery: The origin of River Cauvery, a sacred spot nestled in the Brahmagiri hills.
- Dubare Elephant Camp: Interact with elephants and engage in various activities like bathing and feeding these gentle giants.
Plan your itinerary to include these top attractions when visiting the Omkareshwara Temple in Coorg for a diverse and enriching experience.
Consider reading: Abbey Falls Coorg Timings and How to Reach
Key Takeaways
- Omkareshwara Temple in Coorg showcases a fusion of Islamic and Gothic architectural styles, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- The temple offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere, open from 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM with no entry fee.
- Visitors can engage in activities like exploring the unique architecture, participating in rituals, and admiring the intricate decorations.
- Best time to visit the temple is from October to March, especially during Maha Shivaratri for vibrant celebrations.
- Accessibility to the temple includes options by air, road, or train, with nearby attractions like Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort, Abbey Falls, Talacauvery, and Dubare Elephant Camp.
- It is essential to follow guidelines such as dressing respectfully, removing footwear before entering, being mindful of photography, maintaining silence, and considering donations for a meaningful visit.
Final Thoughts on Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
Visiting the Omkareshwara Temple Coorg promises a culturally enriching experience. By adhering to the temple’s guidelines on attire, footwear, decorum, and donations, we ensure a respectful visit. Exploring the nearby attractions adds depth to our journey, creating lasting memories. Coorg’s charm extends beyond the temple, offering a blend of nature and spirituality.
Embracing these facets enhances our understanding of the region’s heritage. As we immerse ourselves in the serenity of the temple and its surroundings, we embrace the essence of Coorg’s cultural world.
Let’s cherish these moments and carry the spirit of this experience with us as we depart, enriched by the beauty and history we’ve encountered.
FAQs on Omkareshwara Temple Coorg
Is Omkareshwar Temple in Coorg a Jyotirlinga?
Omkareshwar Temple, located in Madhya Pradesh, is indeed one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is not situated in Coorg, which is in Karnataka. This holy site draws countless pilgrims who seek blessings at this revered temple, approximately 4-5 hours’ drive from Ujjain.
Why is Omkareshwar Temple famous?
Omkareshwar Temple is renowned for being one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva in India, drawing devotees globally. Its unique island shape, resembling the Hindu symbol ‘Om’, and its mention in ancient scriptures add to its spiritual significance, making it a pivotal site for Hindu pilgrimage.
Which is the famous temple in Coorg?
The Omkareshwara Temple is a renowned shrine in Coorg, attracting visitors with its unique blend of Islamic and Gothic architectural styles. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a spiritual and cultural landmark, making it the most famous temple in the Coorg district.
What is the history of Madikeri Omkareshwara Temple?
Madikeri Omkareshwara Temple, constructed in 1820 by Lingarajendra II, stands as a symbol of penance for an innocent Brahmin’s death. This distinct architectural marvel blends Keralite and Islamic styles, featuring tiled roofs and domes, and is located just 1km from Madikeri’s central bus stand, steeped in history.
