Rising in the mountains of central India and travelling over 1,000 km across the country to the Arabian Sea is the Holy Narmada River. The Narmada River (also known as Divine Mother) is the source of the egg-shaped Shiva Lingam stones, energy generators of balance and healing, which are commonly seen in the temples of India, where they have been revered for centuries.
Maheshwar is a special place of pilgrimage situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh on the banks of the Holy Narmada River.
Maheshwar is about 2 hours, drive from Indore, the commercial capital of the state. Indore, has an airport, for easy flying from any port of entry.
Maheshwar town is built on the site of the ancient city of Somvanshya, and was the capital of king Kartavirya Shastrarjun who is mentioned in the Sanskrit epics Mahabharata and Ramayana. Maheshwar was known as Mahishmati in ancient times and was the capital of Southern Avanti.
In the late eighteenth century, Maheshwar served as the capital of Rajmata Ahilya Devi Holkar, ruler of the state of Indore. She embellished the city with many buildings and public works, and it is home to her palace, as well as numerous temples, a fort, and riverfront ghats (broad stone steps which step down to the river).
We highly recommend a dip (fully clothed) in the Narmada as an absolute must if you come to India. It is actually taking darshan of this powerful river which means an opportunity to offer some small worship to Her. Very comfortable western standard accommodation is available if an overnight stay is desired as there are many interesting temples to visit on the edge of the river.