Uttarvahini Narmada Parikrama – A Sacred Journey in Gujarat

Uttarvahini Narmada Parikrama is a spiritually significant 14 km pilgrimage that takes place along the banks of the Narmada River near Rajpipla, in the Narmada district of Gujarat. This sacred parikrama (circumambulation) is performed on foot by thousands of devotees every year during the auspicious month of Chaitra—from Chaitra Sud Ekam to Chaitra Vad Amavasya (a full lunar month in the Hindu calendar, usually March-April).

What is Uttarvahini? Why is it Special?

In Hindu tradition, a river that flows northward (uttarvahini) is considered especially sacred. While rivers typically flow east or south, a northward bend is rare and believed to carry powerful spiritual energy.

The Narmada River flows northward for around 6 kilometers between Rampura village (Nandod taluka) and Tilakawada. This stretch is therefore called Uttarvahini Narmada, and the parikrama here holds a unique and elevated spiritual significance.

The Panchkoshi Parikrama

• Total Distance: Approx. 14 km (9 miles)
• Route: From Rampara to Tilakawada and back
• Duration: 1 day (typically completed during the morning hours)
• Season: Every year during Chaitra month

Thousands of devotees, from across Gujarat and beyond, participate in this Padyatra (foot pilgrimage). Despite the heat and crowds, the journey is undertaken with immense devotion, chanting of mantras, and spiritual songs.

Spiritual Significance

According to Hindu scriptures, performing parikrama of a north-flowing sacred river like Narmada can bestow immense spiritual merit. As mentioned in the Narmadashtak by Adi Shankaracharya:

“Alakshalakshalaksapaap laks sar saayudham
tatastujivajantutantu bhukti mukti dayakam”

This verse glorifies the Narmada as a river so powerful that even a glimpse can cleanse countless sins, and sincere devotion can lead to both worldly blessings (bhukti) and liberation (mukti).

Things to Keep in Mind

• Timing: Start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat
• Footwear: Many devotees walk barefoot as an offering of devotion
• Hydration: Carry water and light snacks—temperatures can rise quickly
• Spirit: Join bhajan groups or chant along for an uplifting experience

Why Devotees Choose This Parikrama

Completing the full Narmada Parikrama means walking over 3,000 km, which can take several months. For many devotees, this may not be feasible. The Uttarvahini Panchkoshi Parikrama offers a meaningful and accessible alternative—a condensed version that holds similar spiritual merit.

It is widely believed that even a single sincere parikrama of this sacred uttarvahini stretch can bring peace, blessings, and liberation.

Location Summary

• District: Narmada
• Start Point: Rampura (Rampara)
• End Point: Tilakawada
• Parikrama Path: Loop route along the river

Final Thought

The Uttarvahini Narmada Parikrama is more than a physical journey—it’s a walk of the soul, filled with devotion, simplicity, and deep connection to the divine. Whether you’re a seasoned pilgrim or a seeker on your first yatra, this sacred path along Maa Narmada’s northward flow offers a profound experience you’ll carry for a lifetime.

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