Narmada Udgam

This is, in fact, a walled complex of white shrines sparkling in the sunlight, grouped around two tanks. The Narmada is born in the basement of a single celled temple. On the wall behind this seemingly insignificant little spring, is an image of the beautiful Goddess, Narmada Devi. Devotees step down to the level of the small pond at the base of the spring, scoop up water in their hands, and sprinkle it on the image of the goddess.

The water from this tank flows into a larger tank around the main group of temples, then into a smaller tank. From there it is led under the road from where it pours through the traditional Gao Mukh (Cow's Mouth) spout into the largest tank served by the steps of a ghat. From these steps pilgrims have their religious baths, purifying themselves in the cleansing waters of the holy river. From there the Narmada flows on, gathering strength from the many little streams fed by the wetlands of Amarkantak. It is best to follow the further course of the river after you have seen the other interesting places in the town and its environs. Some idea of the age of this town can be had from the complex of old ASI Protected Temples.