Ghats & Sangams

Narmada is not just a river—it is a sacred journey through ghats (riverfronts) and sangams (confluences) where divine energies are believed to gather. For parikramavasis, these points are milestones of devotion, meditation, and purification.

Table of Contents

1. Amarkantak Ghats

  • The source of Narmada, where the river begins her divine flow.
  • Pilgrims take the first holy dip here before starting parikrama.
  • Known as Narmada Udgam Kund, this ghat is surrounded by forests and ancient temples.

2. Jabalpur – Bhedaghat Ghats

  • Famous for the marble rocks and the roaring Dhuandhar Waterfall.
  • The ghats here offer a mesmerizing view of Narmada cutting through marble cliffs.
  • Rituals at these ghats are believed to wash away sins.

3. Omkareshwar Ghats

  • An island in the shape of “ॐ” in the middle of Narmada.
  • Ghats on both banks connect devotees to Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
  • Boating across these ghats is part of the spiritual experience.

4. Maheshwar Ghats

  • Iconic ghats built by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, filled with grandeur and tranquility.
  • Known for evening Narmada Aarti, attracting thousands of pilgrims.
  • The ghats here carry stories of devotion, courage, and culture.

5. Hoshangabad (Narmadapuram) Ghats

  • Historic ghats associated with the worship of Maa Narmada.
  • Known for Makar Sankranti Snan where thousands gather for the holy dip.

6. Bharuch Ghats

  • Situated near the river’s entry into the Arabian Sea.
  • Important for rituals connected to ancestors (Pind Daan).
  • Considered the place where Narmada merges her blessings with the ocean.

Sangams (Confluences) Along the Way

1. Narmada–Tawa Sangam (Hoshangabad)

  • A sacred confluence where River Tawa meets Narmada.
  • Pilgrims perform shraddh rituals here.

2. Narmada–Banjar Sangam (Mandla)

  • Spiritual energy point, where smaller tributaries feed into Narmada.
  • Associated with stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata.

3. Narmada–Orsang Sangam (Near Bharuch)

  • Marks the final stretch before Narmada meets the sea.
  • Considered highly auspicious for completing Parikrama rituals.

Why Ghats & Sangams Matter in Parikrama?

  • Purification: A dip at these ghats is believed to cleanse the soul.
  • Spiritual Energy: Sangams are intersections of divine currents.
  • Cultural Vibrance: Many ghats are centers of art, music, and local traditions.