Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath

The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is widely known as the winter seat of two revered shrines of Lord Shiva, namely the Kedarnath Temple and Madhmaheswar Temple. The temple is located in the small town of Ukhimath, in Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand. Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple is situated around 175 km from Rishikesh.
 

Constructed in the traditional Nagara style, the temple offers an intricate artistic display of carvings and sculptures. Inside its sanctum sanctorum, the temple houses the idols of Kedarnath and Madhmaheshwar. Alongside, there are small idols of Goddess Parvati, Ganesha, and the Sun God (Surya Dev).

Situated in the midst of the lush green mountains, the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath offers a tranquil and peaceful environment. Devotees of Lord Shiva, along with others, visit the shrine throughout the year. However, most of them are attracted towards the temple, as it serves as the temporary abode of Kedarnath Temple.

Winter Seat- Two Panch Kedar

The importance of the Omkareshwar Mandir in Ukhimath can be understood from that it serves as the winter abode of two of the five Panch Kedars. The first and second Panch Kedar, the Kedarnath Temple and Madmaheshwar Temple, respectively, are worshipped here during winter.
 

Due to heavy snowfall, both these shrines remain closed for about six months. When the Panchmukhi Doli of Kedar Baba arrives at Ukhimath, the atmosphere in the region is lit up with joy. Villagers from nearby areas gather to welcome the procession. A similar atmosphere is also witnessed when the doli of Madhmaheshwar arrives.

Temple Timing

Omkareshwar Temple is open daily for the devotees at 5:00 AM and closes at 9:00 PM. However, the said times are subject to change.

History

As per the legend, the temple witnessed the auspicious marriage of Usha and Anirudh. Usha was the daughter of Banasur, and Anirudh was the grandson of Lord Krishna.

Besides this, the temple's history revolves around another folklore. As per it, Emperor Mandhata, an ancestor of Lord Rama, relinquished all his pleasures to please Lord Shiva. For this, he performed a harsh penance, standing on one leg for about 12 years. With his utmost devotion, Shiva appeared in the form of Omkar, the sacred sound of "Om", and blessed the emperor. Since then, the temple has been known as Omkareshwar Temple.

Location and Accessibility

Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath, is located around 175 km from Rishikesh. Devotees can access the temple easily from Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun as well. The Uttarkahand Transport Corporation (UTC) operates a limited number of bus services daily. Apart from this, the temple can also be reached by shared taxis from these cities. From Rishikesh, the journey to the Omkareshwar Temple will take around 6 to 7 hours.

Accommodation

Ukhimath offers a wide variety of accommodation options from budget-friendly homestays to Hotels. Some popular stays near Omkareshwar Mandir in Ukhimath are: -

• Neelkanth Homestay.
• Shiva Homestay.
• Hotel Himalayan Heights Hotels.
• Kedareshwarama Homestay.
• Hotel Mata Dhara.
• Devdarshan Hotel.
• Hotel Himalayan View Ukhimath.
• Hotel OM Palace.

Important Tips for Travellers

• Visit the bus station early, as buses depart early in the morning.
• Although the mobile network connectivity in the area is good, it is still advisable to carry sufficient cash.
• Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the sanctum sanctorum.
• Mobile phones and cameras are not allowed inside the temple.
• A small roadside parking facility is available for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
• Various prasad shops are available outside the temple.

Nearby Attraction

• Kalimath Temple.
• Deoria Taal.
• Kedarnath.
• Madhmaheswar Temple
• Tungnath Temple.
• Chopta.
• Triyuginarayan Temple.
• Baniyakund.