Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple | Winter Seat of Kedarnath

About Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple

Ukhimath is a picturesque town where the air feels lighter and whispers the breeze of devotion, holding immense spiritual significance for the sacred Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple. Primarily famous as the winter seat of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar, two among the Panch Kedar circuits.

As the winter abode of Lord Kedarnath, many pilgrims visiting Ukhimath also include it in their Kedarnath Trip Package From Haridwar itinerary before continuing their spiritual journey through the Garhwal Himalayas.

Visiting this sacred town in a serene and mist-covered valley feels surreal. There is something about the Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple attracting devotees and peace seekers across India.

This blog covers everything about Ukhimath Uttarakhand, including the Omkareshwar Temple, how to reach it, the best time to visit, nearby attractions, and tips for visitors. So let’s start. 

Where is Ukhimath Located?

Ukhimath is located in the Rudraprayag District of Uttarakhand. The Ukhimath Temple is situated at an altitude of 1311-1,317 meters (4,300-4,320 feet) on Gopeshwar Mandal Road. Mostly, pilgrims visit here during the winter closure of the Madhyamaheshwar and Kedarnath Temple.

Quick Facts About Ukhimath Uttarakhand

• Location: Rudraprayag Uttarakhand
• Altitude: 1,311-1,317 meters (4,300-4,320 feet)
• Coordinates: 30°31’06” N latitude and 79°05’43” E longitude
• Dedicated: Lord Shiva
• Significance: Associated with the marriage of Usha and Aniruddha and the Penance of King Mandhata
• Ukhimath Pin Code: 246469
• Famous For: Omkareshwar Temple (Winter abode of Kedarnath & Madhyamaheshwar)
• Best Time: Winter (from November to March)
• Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar and Rishikesh
• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Why is Ukhimath famous?

Ukhimath is famous for its Omkareshwar Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known as the Kedarnath winter temple, as it is the winter seat of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar, making the shrines accessible even in the winter.

It is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Built in a traditional Nagara style of Himalayan Architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures, offering a serene and spiritually energetic environment.

Pilgrims often visit here along with the Kedarnath Temple. You can check out our customizable Kedarnath package price and details to add on this sacred site, along with a trip to Kedarnath.

Significance of Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath

Winter Seat of the Two Panch Kedar

The Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple is a key pilgrimage site for Shaivism, connected with the worship of Lord Shiva. Holding great spiritual significance, it serves as a temporary home for two Panch Kedar shrines: Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar. 

During the winter season, the idols of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar are shifted to Ukhimath town due to heavy snowfall, which makes these two shrines inaccessible; so their idols are brought here in a grand procession called “Utsav Doli Yatra”.

The idols of Baba Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar are brought with great pomp and show to their winter seat, while following traditional rituals and chanting. The deities continue to be worshipped for the next six months (November to April), till the reopening of temples.

It is believed that visiting the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath in winter is similar to visiting the Kedarnath Temple and the Madhyamaheshwar Temple, making it a famous temple of Uttarakhand in winter.

Is Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is in Panch Kedar or 12 Jyotirlinga?

No, Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is neither in the Panch Kedar circuit nor in the 12 Jyotirlinga. But it serves as the winter seat of two Panch Kedar shrines: Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar.

Ukhimath Story & Mythological Roots

According to Hindu beliefs, the temple also witnessed the auspicious marriage of Usha (daughter of Banasura) and Anirudha (grandson of Lord Krishna), which took place here in Ukhimath, formally known as Ushamath. 

Another local folklore suggests that King Mandhata (believed to be an ancestor of Lord Rama and a great devotee of Lord Shiva) performed intense penance here for 12 years on one leg. After being pleased by his devotion, Lord Shiva appeared to him as the sound of “Omkar,” leading to the Ukhimath mandir name as Omkareshwar Temple. 

Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath History & Architecture

The temple was built in a simple yet powerful style, blending traditional North Indian architecture with local Himalayan style. Dating back 5000 years, it features a compact sanctum inside the temple that houses an idol of Lord Shiva, along with subsidiary shrines of Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, the Sun God (Surya), and an idol of King Mandhata. 

Also, the temple features a great Singh Dwar (main entrance gate) and showcases wood and stone carvings adorned with detailed sculptures. The temple complex houses five small brass idols of the Panch Kedar temples (Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar Mahadev). 

Omkareshwar Ukhimath Temple Timings

The temple follows a schedule of Darshan and Aarti timings, along with afternoon breaks. 

Here is a quick overview of temple timings:

• Opening Time: 5:00 AM
• Morning Aarti (Mangal Aarti): 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
• Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM – 12:20 PM
• Noon Bhog: 12:20 PM – 1:15 PM
• Afternoon Break: 1:15 PM – 4:00 PM
• Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Evening Aarti (Shayan Aarti): 9:30 PM – 10 PM

The daily Ukhimath Temple timings are from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM for all devotees. The morning aarti is performed at 6:00 AM daily, which lasts for 30 minutes; afterwards, daily morning darshan continues till 12:20 PM. Then, priests offer noon bhog to the deity; then there is an afternoon break from 1:15 PM to 4:00 PM. The temple opens for evening darshan at 4:00 PM; evening darshan continues till 10:00 PM, with the shayan aarti (evening aarti) occurring from 9:30 PM to 10:00 PM; then the temple closes for the day.

Note: Shayan Aarti at Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath, is a major attraction for visitors, taking place every night between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM.

Information for Visitors

• Entry is free to the shrine.
• Wear modest clothes to maintain the sanctity of the site. 

How To Reach Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple

To reach Omkareshwar, Ukhimath, travellers must travel by road, as there is no direct air or train connectivity to the town itself. 

Below is a detailed overview of how to get there:

By Air: No air connectivity to Ukhimath Uttarakhand. The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest, connecting to all major indian cities.

So you fly to this airport and, from there, hire a private taxi or take a bus to reach Ukhimath. The temple is 2 km from the taxi stand; you can reach it on foot or by local shuttle service. 

By Train: There is no rail connectivity to the town, so pilgrims must take a train to the nearest railheads, Haridwar (190 km away) and Rishikesh (175 km away), both of which have better connectivity to the rest of India. 

From either of these railway stations, you must take a taxi or bus to Ukhimath. From there, devotees can reach by a shuttle walk or take local transport to reach the temple. 

By Road: Ukhimath is well-connected by motorable roads. Devotees can take regular buses or private or shared taxis from cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. 

Route: Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag sangam → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath (Omkareshwar Temple)

Final Leg Access

The temple is on the Gopeshwar-Mandal road, 2 km from the Ukhimath taxi stand. Pilgrims can either walk or take a shuttle service to reach the temple. Ukhimath to Omkareshwar Temple distance is approximately 8 km.

Also Read: Ukhimath Distance Chart

Best Time To Visit Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath

Well, the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is a year-round accessible shrine. Ukhimath’s weather remains cool with mild temperatures. The best time to visit depends on devotees, what they are looking for, or what they experience. 

Summer, from April to June, is an ideal time for a pleasurable experience with clear views. Late April or early May is actually the best time to visit Ukhimath, as during this time the deities are returned to their actual place in a grand procession.

Post-monsoon (September to October) is another good time, offering lush greenery and favourable weather, ideal for pilgrimage and local exploration. 

November to March is the most significant time to witness the worship rituals of Lord Kedarnath and Lord Madhyamaheshwar.

Tips: Avoid the monsoon (July to August). Travel can be hectic due to heavy rain, leading to landslides and roadblocks, making travel risky and difficult.

Places To Visit Near Ukhimath

Ukhimath is a picturesque town surrounded by stunning scenic attractions. Below is an explanation of such places, which you can visit near the Ukhimath Temple. 

• Kalimath Temple: Located in the Rudraprayag district, Kalimath Temple is a revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Kali. Featuring its unique worship of Sri Yatra, instead of any Physical idol. Accessible by a short drive from Ukhimath.
  
• Deoria Tal: A picturesque lake located in Sari Village, Rudraprayag District. Deoria Tal Lake is accessible by a short trek from the base point, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks.
  
• Chopta Tungnath: Chopta is a lush green bugyal, located near Ukhimath. Serving as a primary base for the Tungnath Temple, which is a highly revered Shiv shrine. The Chopta Tungnath Trek provides an opportunity to witness 360-degree views of Mt. Chandrashila and Chaukhamba.
  
• Kedarnath: The Kedarnath Temple is a sacred Shiva shrine, located in the Rudraprayag district. One of the 12 Jyotirlingas and Panch Kedar. It is also an integral part of the Do Dham and Char Dham yatra.
  
• Madhyamaheshwar: Another significant shrine, located in a Mansoona village near Ukhimath. Holds significance as the second among the Panch Kedar. Accessible by a short drive from Ukhimath and a trek from the base camp, Ransi Village.
  
• Triyuginarayan Temple: Located in Sonprayag, near Kedarnath, Triyuginarayan Temple is another sacred shrine, known as the wedding place of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. 

Accommodation & Food Options

Hotels in Ukhimath Uttarakhand

There are several Places to stay in Ukhimath, ranging from budget-friendly accommodations to authentic local homestays. Here are some popular options below:

Hotel Name	Price (Per day/per night)
Kedar View Homestay	₹1000 to 1500
Hotel Himalayan Height	₹2000 to ₹2500
Regenta Resort	₹3500 to ₹5500 per night
Neelkanth Homestay	₹1500 to ₹2000 per night
Tattva Hotel Ukhimath	₹2000 to 3000
GMVN Tourist Rest House	₹1500 to ₹2000

Note: Prices can vary by season, type of sharing and category of hotel (basic, deluxe, and premium). 

If you are seeking an alternative, comfortable, and better option for a stay in a cottage, hotel, or resort, then you must prefer booking with Musafir Resort in Guptkashi. At Musafir Resort, you will get premium services with ideal room service at just ₹3,000 to ₹4,000.

Food Options:

Food options in Ukhimath are typically simple, offering local Garhwali and North Indian meals. Some popular local eateries are Dhabas, Homestay meals, Moksha Cafe, Bunker Cafe, and in-site restaurants. 

Tips For Visitors

• Check Weather & Road: Before travelling, check weather and road conditions for safe travel, as the weather can fluctuate quickly in the Himalayan region.
   
• Start Early: Begin your trip early to avoid mountain traffic and avoid night driving, as it is not safe.
  
• Pack Wisely: Carry warm clothes if you plan to travel in winter, basic medicines, documents, light snacks, and other miscellaneous.
  
• Follow Rules & Guidelines: Observe the local customs and guidelines to ensure safety.
  
• Keep Cash & Documents Handy: Although network connectivity is good in this region, so carry sufficient cash for local services.
  
• Advance Booking: To avoid any last-minute hassle, prefer to book your stay in advance.

Conclusion

The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is a living spiritual site that keeps the essence of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar alive year-round. 

Located in the serene hills of Uttarakhand, the temple offers a great experience of divinity and the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas. 

So whether you visit to seek blessings or just for local exploration, Ukhimath has something different for everyone.

FAQs

What is Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath famous for?

The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is widely famous for its role, serving as the winter home of Kedarnath and Madhamaheshwar. Also featuring a serene atmosphere and unique architecture.

What is the history of Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath?

The history of the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is a blend of ancient legends and local beliefs. 5000 years ago, the temple was built by the Pandavas and is believed to be the wedding place of Usha and Anirudha. One local account suggests that King Mandhata (a great devotee of Lord Shiva) performed penance here for 12 years, and then Lord Shiva appeared to him as a sound of Omkar, giving the place its name.

Who married in Ukhimath?

According to ancient legends, Usha (daughter of King Banasura) and Aniruddha (grandson of Lord Krishna) married at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.

How far is Omkareshwar Ukhimath from Kedarnath?

Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath is approximately 47 km from Kedarnath by road, from the last motorable point, Gaurikund. Pilgrims must trek down to Gaurikund and then drive to Ukhimath to reach the Omkareshwar Temple.

Which lake is near Ukhimath?

Deoria Tal is a primary lake near Ukhimath, located around 12 km from Sari village (near Ukhimath), where the trek to this site starts. You can reach the base by hiring a taxi from the taxi stand.

Does it snow in Ukhimath?

Yes, Ukhimath experiences light snow and snow flurries typically during winter months from December to February. But it remains accessible throughout the year.

Is Ukhimath worth visiting?

Yes, Ukhimath is absolutely worth visiting, whether you travel in winter, when you get to witness the winter rituals of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar, or in summer for a peaceful and serene pilgrimage experience.