MAHESHWAR
Maheshwar is a devout centre which is located on the banks of River Narmada in the state of Madhya Pradesh boasts of a rare combination of tradition and history. The assembly of lovely shrines that invoke up exquisite devoutness and forts of sculptural grandeur are the foremost lures of this town.
The present day Maheshwar was the Mahishmati of the ancient times, the valiant king Kartivarjun made Mahishmati as the capital of his kingdom. Maheshwar literally means the “Residence of Lord Shiva”. This ancient city has its name mentioned in the holy epics of Mahabharatha and Ramayan. This temple town was raised to the heights of glory by the Queen Rani Ahilyabai of the Holkar dynasty. The city is renowned for its beautiful sarees with its eye-catching handmade designs. The Maheshwari sarees are popular for their mat bordered designs. Sarees are made of Bugdi borders, which can be worn either sides. These gorgeous sarees were introduced about 250 years ago by the queen herself.
Sahastararjun Temple close to River Narmada is a popular devotional centre. Rajrajeshwar Mandir, Kashi Vishwanath Mandir, Chaturbhuj Narayan Mandir, Ahilya Mata's Chhatris, Chintamani Ganpati Mandir ,Pandharinath Mandir, Bhawani Mata Mandir, Gobar Ganesh Mandir ,Anant Narayan Mandir are the popular temples. Kaleshwar,Jwaleshwar and Narsingh Mandir temples beautifully located on the natural setting gives the pilgrims calm and relaxing ambiance. There are various Ghats/mountains surrounding the city which is named after the kingdoms which ruled Maheshwar.
Boating in the gushing waters of River Narmada offers a heavenly feeling and should not be missed for anything.
PLACES TO VISIT
Rajgaddi : This place consists of big size idol of Rani Ahilyabai in a sitting position. The other rooms consist of the display of the antique articals used by the royal family. There is also a small and pious temple inside the complex from where the Dusshera procession starts.
Mandaleshwar : About 5kms from Maheshwar is a place called Mandaleshwar which is popular for its stunning stone fort built by Mohammedan kings. It was also an important trade and marketing centre.
Oon : Oon is an important Jain pilgrimage centre which has a history dating to about 1000 years ago. The carvings and designs in the temple resembles to that of the Khajuraho temples.
Bawangaja
HOW TO REACH
By Air : Indore about 90 kms from Maheshwar is the nearest domestic airport. It is well connected with Mumbai, Delhi and Bhopal with regular flights.
By Bus : Buses play from Barwah, Khandwa, Dhar and Dhamnod to Maheshwar.
By Rail : Nearest railway station is located at Barwaha (39 km). Indore which is about 91 kms from Maheshwar connects to major towns and cities and is also a major rail head.
