The Return Journey
The South Bank marks the return path of the Narmada Parikrama, where the pilgrim begins walking upstream — from the Arabian Sea back to Amarkantak. This phase is considered more demanding both spiritually and physically. The south bank symbolizes Tapa (austerity and penance), testing the pilgrim’s patience, devotion, and endurance.
Table of Contents
- Key Features of the South Bank
- Important Pilgrimage Stops on the South Bank
- Facilities on the South Bank
- Special Rituals on the South Bank
Key Features of the South Bank
- Starting Point: Bharuch (Arabian Sea confluence).
- Route Direction: Bharuch → Rajpipla → Kevadia (Statue of Unity) → Garudeshwar → Mandleshwar → Maheshwar → Omkareshwar → Jabalpur → Amarkantak.
- Spiritual Belief: Walking on the south bank is believed to cleanse sins and help attain moksha.
Important Pilgrimage Stops on the South Bank
- Bharuch: Ritual completion of the downstream path and new beginning of the upstream walk.
- Rajpipla / Kevadia: New pilgrimage landmarks near the Statue of Unity, with ashrams nearby.
- Garudeshwar: Sacred meditation point of Swami Karpatri and other saints.
- Maheshwar (South Bank): Offers different perspectives of Ahilyabai’s ghats and temples.
- Omkareshwar (South side): Pilgrims often take darshan again, completing a mini parikrama of the island.
- Jabalpur (South ghats): Another opportunity for snan and darshan at Dhuandhar.
- Amarkantak: The Parikrama concludes with offerings at Narmada Kund.
Facilities on the South Bank
- Ashrams & Dharmshalas: Slightly fewer than the north side; advance planning helps.
- Food & Essentials: Local support, temple kitchens, and dhabas near big towns.
- Safety: Some areas are remote; pilgrims often walk in groups.
Special Rituals on the South Bank
- Purnahuti: Final offerings at Narmada Kund in Amarkantak upon completion.
- Upwas & Seva: Many undertake stricter vows (fasting, seva at ashrams) during this leg.
- Darshan: Repeat visits at Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, and Garudeshwar are common.