Teertharaj Amarkantak: The Spiritual Soul of Madhya Pradesh (Ep. 1)

Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh is a sacred birthplace of three holy Rivers ~ Narmada, Son, Johila. It is one of India’s most powerful spiritual places where the Vindhya, Satpura and Maikal ranges converge. The place finds mention in epics like Ramayana & Mahabharata, Skanda Purana-Reva Khanda and many other mythological texts. An archaeological treasure, Amarkantak is universally celebrated for its natural beauty, serenity and it perfectly provides peace of mind through its unique blend of spirituality and nature. For centuries, sages, saints and ordinary people have come here, meditated and attained moksha. According to Hindu spiritual belief it is said that elevated saints, rishis and mystics reside here in Amarkantak in their Sukhsma Sharir (subtle body). Kapila, Bhrigu, Markandeya, Durbasha, Vyasa, Kabir spent centuries in deep penance on the banks of Narmada who is mythologically believed to be the daughter of Lord Shiva. The eternal spiritual current of Narmada directly feeds the soul or Sukshma Sharir of those meditating near it. Narmada is the only river in the country where Parikrama is performed. Narmada Udgam temple where the river originates, is one of the most important stops for those pilgrims’ undertaking circumambulation of the river’s entire course. Everyday Udgam temple comes alive with devotional chants, age-old rituals, and a palpable energy that blends myth, faith, and community into a living tapestry of India’s culture. Raw beauty of nature tempered by a certain numinosity that has drawn solitude seekers, nature lovers and believers to Amarkantak where forests of sal, teak, palash and mahua are furrowed by burbling brooks and creeks that noisily tumble-down rocky slopes. Few important places in Amarkantak Kapildhara, the first waterfall of Narmada located about 6 km from Narmada Kund. Narmada River drops from a height of about 100 feet amid dense, lush forests. Durbasha cave: Durbasha muni medicated in this cave. Dudh Dhara: a short trek (about 1 km) from Kapildhara leads to this cascading waterfall. The cascading white water has a milky appearance, hence the name 'Dudh' (Milk). Sonmuda: The point of origin of the Son River. Situated on the edge of the Maikal Hills, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and dense forests. Mai Ki Bagiya: A natural, dense grove of trees that is deeply associated with local legends of Goddess Narmada. Markandeya ashram: Markandeya muni’s Tapabhumi. Bhrigu Ka Mandal: Bhrigu Rishi’s Tapasthali. (around 2 kms from Narmada Udgam) Jwaleswar Shiv temple: According to the Shiva Purana, Lord Shiva destroyed the three demon cities of Tripurasur. (around 9 kms from Amarkantak). We visited all these places and videos will come one after another. Everyone should visit Amarkantak once. You will have to reach Pendra Road (around 30 kms from Amarkantak) or Bilaspur station (around 123 kms). You can avail buses and private vehicles from there to reach Amarkantak. We went to Amarkantak by the end of May. However, the best time to visit Amarkantak is from October to March. During winter and post-monsoon months the weather here is very pleasant with temperature ranges between 10-28 degree Celsius. During Monsoon, Amarkantak receives heavy rainfall and waterfalls become livelier and more vibrant. Episode I showcases our journey from Kolkata to Amarkantak, visit to Udgam temple and glimpses of divine Narmada and its serene flows. 20828/Santragachi - Jabalpur Humsafar Express Rs 1,298 per head fare in AC 3 tier Car cost from Bilaspur to Amarkantak Rs 3,500 Phone - 8319059311 Stayed in Sarvodaya Vishram Griha. Tariff Rs 2000 per day