The idol of Mahakaleshwar is known to be "dakshinamukhi", which means that it is facing the south. This is a unique feature, upheld by the "tantric shivnetra" tradition to be found only in Mahakaleshwar among the 12 Jyotirlingas. The idol of "Omkareshwar Mahadev" is consecrated in the sanctum above the Mahakal shrine. The images of Ganesh, Parvati and Karttikeya are installed in the west, north, and east of the sanctum sanctorum. To the south is the image of Nandi, the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The idol of Nagchandreshwar on the third storey is open for "darshan" only on the day of Nag Panchami. The temple has five levels, one of which is underground. The temple itself is located in a spacious courtyard surrounded by massive walls near a lake. The "shikhar" or the spire is adorned with sculptural finery. Brass lamps light the way to the underground sanctum. It is believed that "prasada" (holy offering) offered here to the deity can be re-offered unlike all other shrines.