The Sacred Path
The North Bank of the Narmada River is considered especially auspicious in the Parikrama tradition. Pilgrims generally begin their journey on this side, walking downstream from Amarkantak to the Arabian Sea. This path is said to symbolize Dharma (righteousness) and is associated with the energy of divine protection.
Table of Contents
- Key Features of the North Bank
- Important Pilgrimage Stops on the North Bank
- Facilities on the North Bank
- Special Rituals on the North Bank
Key Features of the North Bank
- Starting Point: Amarkantak (Narmada Kund) — the river’s birthplace.
- Route Direction: Amarkantak → Jabalpur → Omkareshwar → Maheshwar → Mandleshwar → Nemawar → Hoshangabad → Garudeshwar → Bharuch.
- Spiritual Belief: Walking on the north bank invokes blessings of stability, protection, and progress in life.
Important Pilgrimage Stops on the North Bank
- Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh): Sacred origin of Narmada, with multiple mathas and kunds.
- Jabalpur (Bhedaghat): Famous for marble rocks and Dhuandhar falls — Narmada’s mightiest view.
- Omkareshwar: Jyotirlinga shrine on Mandhata island; many pilgrims spend days here.
- Maheshwar: Historic town with Ahilyabai Holkar’s ghats and temples.
- Nemawar: A spiritual hub with Siddheshwar Temple, attracting saints and sadhus.
- Garudeshwar (Gujarat): A revered place for meditation near the statue of unity area.
- Bharuch: Where the Narmada merges with the Arabian Sea — a highly significant completion point for the downstream journey.
Facilities on the North Bank
- Ashrams & Dharmshalas: More numerous on this bank, as most pilgrims follow this route first.
- Food & Essentials: Availability of small dhabas, tea shops, and prasad kitchens.
- Safety: Comparatively better infrastructure and accessibility to towns.
Special Rituals on the North Bank
- Snan (Holy bath): At ghats like Jabalpur, Omkareshwar, and Maheshwar.
- Deepdan: Offering lamps on the river at major temples.
- Mantra Japa: Many parikramavasis chant “Om Narmadaya Namah” throughout.