Ukhimath
Uttarakhand, the home to Char Dham Yatra to Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri and Gangotri, is famous for some main attractions lying between these prime pilgrimage destinations. Ukimath is one of them – called as the winter seat of Kedarnath Dham.
Situated at an altitude of approx. 1350 meters above sea level, Ukimath is charming town in Rudraprayag District – called as Okhimath too. The beautiful town is the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar, who stays for the duration of winter months and reaches again in the months of April-May to Kedarnath Dham. During winter months, they are worshipped as Omkareshwar temple. It is the time when Kedarnath Temple remains close. The beautiful place is inhabited by the Rawal’s who are the head priests of the main temple in Kedarnath.
The place is also famous for offering you scenic view of Himalayan Ranges and snow-capped peaks. Ukimath becomes the center of attraction, when deities from Kedarnath are brought here after Diwali and from Madhyamaheshwar in November. In the end of May month they are taken back to main place or Kedarnath Dham. This celebration is called as Doli – that brings idol of Kedarnath that are worshipped in temple here. It is counted as one of the oldest shrines in India.
This beautiful holy place as another religious significance as it is said that wedding of Lord Krishna’s Grandson (Anirudh) and Usha – daughter of Banasur was held in Ukimath. It was earlier called as Ushamath
Some other famous places to see in and around Ukimath are the following
- Sari Village – This famous village is called as Saari Gaon – the base camp for a beautiful lake Deorial Tal – that is approx. 3 km from the village.
- Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev – The beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Nag Devta – located on the route to Deoria Tal from Saari Village.
- Mandakini River – It is known for its scenic view that flows calmly. It is a tributary of Alaknanda River – fed by Vasukiganga river at Sonprayag.
- Kalimath – It is approx. 22 km Ukimath on the banks of Saraswati River in Rudraprayag district.
Gaurikund, Guptkashi and Kedarnath are the globally renowned destinations to explore from Ukimath.
Which Is the Best Time to Visit Ukimath?
The beautiful place is famous for pleasant weather conditions. From November to May, you can worship Lord Kedarnath here. You can see it all round the year. However, it is advised to avoid monsoon as heavy rain fall may witness land slide.
How to Reach Ukimath?
- By Air – Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is nearest airport at the distance of 197 km form Ukimath.
- By Rail – Rishikesh is nearby railway station at the distance of 179 km from Ukimath from where you can take a taxi or bus to reach there.
- By Road – There are regular buses from Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun to reach Ukimath. You can also reach by driving your own car.
