Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple: The Winter Home of Lord Kedarnath

Ukhimath is a serene mountain village in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, where religion and culture have a great significance. It is famous for being Lord Kedarnath's winter abode. Once the Kedarnath Temple is closed for the winter season, the festival deity of Lord Kedarnath, Utsava Murti is brought to Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath where prayers are held every day until the temple is reopened in Spring season. The temple also hosts Lord Madhyamaheshwar's idol in the winter and hence is one of the most sacred sites in Garhwal Himalayas. 

The best place to experience solitude and seek a divine experience, be it a pilgrimage or a local adventure, or even just to behold the majesty of the Himalayas – the city of Ukhimath has something for everyone. This article will provide you with information about the history of the Omkareshwar Temple, as well as a list of places to visit nearby and some travel tips and recommended accommodations for your trip. 

History of Ukhimath Omkareshwar temple  

Omkareshwar Temple has a fascinating history as it is associated with numerous mythological events such as the meeting of Usha (Banusara’s daughter) with her lover Aniruddh (Lord Krishna’s grandson). Usha being the name of the person who met with her lover, this place was previously called Ushamath. But another story also exists about how the temple got its name. As per one of the beliefs, King Mandhata worshiped Lord Shiva here who showed his form of Omkar to King Mandhata.   

Architecture of the Temple 

The temple is a classic example of Himalayan style architecture. Built with local stone, the temple has a beautiful roof and intricately carved wooden doorways, all typical of the ancient Himalayan style. In addition, there are also several other Hindu temples that dot this place. While it looks simple on the outside, the detailed work on the inner stone and wooden structure is indeed the hallmark of Lord Shiva’s chosen abode. Moreover, you will notice the familiarity of this place and its structure as you tour around Uttarakhand, seeing similar structures to the ones in this temple complex.   

Best Time to Visit Omkareshwar Temple

If you want to visit the Omkareshwar Temple, then the months from November to April are ideal since this is when you can receive the blessings of Lord Kedarnath and Lord Madhyamaheshwar. For trekking and sightseeing trips, the time between May and June and from September to October is perfect since during this period, the trekking paths open. 

Nearby Places to Visit  

Triyugi Narayan Temple 

Triyugi Narayan Temple located at a distance of approximately 30 km from Ukhimath is said to be the place where Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati in front of Lord Vishnu. The holy fire (Akhand Dhuni) in the kund is believed to continue burning from the time of celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati; therefore many couples choose to come here for their Triyugi narayan mandir wedding in the hope that such event would assure them with enough luck for successful marriage and family life. Since there is a limit on the number of guests that can be present at a wedding in Triyugi Narayan mandir the process of planning seems essential. 

Deoria Lake.

A beautiful lake, Deoria Tal is at a short hike from Sari village. The calm and lucid lake reflects the Chaukhamba mountain like a mirror in the morning on clear days. This place is popular among trekkers and bird watchers and nature photographers who like to visit it to enjoy its beauty. 

Chopta 

Chopta is a small destination which is located on the way of Kedarnath. Chopta is considered as a mini Switzerland and does not have much human interference. The maximum altitude the Chopta points will take you to is 2,680 m. Moreover, from that altitude, you can see different views of northeastern and southwestern Himalayas from the same viewpoint. The best time to visit will be October to November.  

Where to Stay in Ukhimath

While in Ukhimath one can choose from simple lodges or guesthouses etc. But for those who would like some comfort and modern amenities can choose Alpine Vista Wellness & Resort which is not far from town. There are spacious and well-furnished rooms with a beautiful view of the mountains surrounding the area. This resort is suitable for families, couples, and people traveling alone looking for a relaxing place to unwind after an exhausting day of trekking.

Conclusion

If planning a trip to Uttarakhand in winter, an important tourist aim is to visit Omkareshwar Temple, a place where it is known that Lord Kedarnath and Lord Madhyamaheshwar rest during winter. Here, travelers will have a chance not just to pray, but to hike to Tungnath, visit the wonderful Deoria Tal, attend a celebration in Triyugi Narayan Temple, etc. 

FAQs

1. When do the idols come to Ukhimath? 

They arrive in late October or early November, soon after Diwali, and stay at this spot for the winter until the main mountain temples reopen in late April or early May.

2. Can visitors offer prayers at the Omkareshwar Temple during winter?

Yes, the temple is open to all for daily darshan and morning or evening prayers (aarti) during the winter months.

3. What is the distance of Ukhimath from Kedarnath and Chopta? 

 It is 40 km from Kedarnath and Chopta. (Specifically, it is 45 km to Sonprayag, the starting point for the Kedarnath trek and about 29 km to Chopta, the starting point for the Tungnath trek).

4. When does the temple open for the public?

It is open every day from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, with the evening prayer (aarti) held between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm.

5. How manukhimath-omkareshwar-temple-the-winter-home-of-lord-kedarnathy days are sufficient to visit Ukhimath? 

On average, 2–3 days are sufficient. This allows time to visit the temple along with other nearby attractions like Deoria Tal, Chopta, or Triyugi Narayan.