Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath – The Winter Home of Kedarnath
Introduction
High in the Garhwal Himalayas, where pine forests whisper in the cold breeze and snow dusts the peaks like silver, lies a temple that feels like the beating heart of devotion — Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.
This is no ordinary temple. It is the place where Lord Kedarnath himself rests during the winter months. When the paths to Kedarnath Dham are sealed by snow and the valley falls silent, the divine idol of Baba Kedarnath is lovingly carried down and placed in Omkareshwar Mandir, where worship continues without pause.
For six months, Ukhimath becomes Kedarnath for the devotees. The chants of Har Har Mahadev echo through the temple courtyards, making Omkareshwar Temple one of the most spiritually charged places in Uttarakhand.
The Significance of Omkareshwar Temple
Winter Seat of Kedarnath: From November to April, when Kedarnath Temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall, the idol of Lord Kedarnath is worshipped here. This makes Omkareshwar Mandir an equally powerful place of darshan.
Home of Madhyamaheshwar Deity: Along with Kedarnath, the idol of Lord Madhyamaheshwar (one of the Panch Kedar shrines) is also worshipped here in winter.
Eternal Connection: Devotees believe that darshan at Omkareshwar in Ukhimath during winter is equivalent to darshan at Kedarnath itself.
The Temple Atmosphere
The temple itself is modest yet powerful. Its stone structure glows with oil lamps, and its courtyard opens to breathtaking views of Chaukhamba and other Himalayan peaks. The aura here is intimate — you are not lost in a sea of thousands of pilgrims but instead stand close, face to face with Mahadev.
During winters, when the deities arrive from Kedarnath in a grand procession, the whole valley lights up with joy. Villagers sing folk hymns, priests perform age-old rituals, and the air feels thick with devotion.
Omkareshwar Temple Timings
Morning Aarti: Around 5:30 AM
Evening Aarti: Around 7:00 PM
(The exact time changes with the seasons, but mornings and evenings are the best to witness the divine rituals.)
Best Time to Visit
November to April: When the deities from Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar are worshipped here.
Summer (May–October): The temple is open, but the idols are shifted back to their original shrines in the high Himalayas.
How to Reach Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath
By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (198 km).
By Train: Closest railway station is Rishikesh (175 km).
By Road: Ukhimath is well connected by road to Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi. From Ukhimath town, the temple is easily accessible by foot.
Nearby Attractions
Kedarnath Dham (in summer): About 60 km trek from Gaurikund.
Madhyamaheshwar Temple: Another Panch Kedar shrine.
Tungnath & Chandrashila: The world’s highest Shiva temple and a stunning trek.
Deoria Tal: A serene lake with mirror-like reflections of Chaukhamba.
FAQs About Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath
Why is Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath important?
Because it serves as the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath and Lord Madhyamaheshwar. Worship here is considered as sacred as worshipping in Kedarnath itself.
When does the idol of Kedarnath shift to Omkareshwar?
Usually in October/November, before heavy snowfall, the idol is brought to Ukhimath and stays here until April/May.
Who manages the rituals at Omkareshwar Temple?
The same Rawal priests of Kedarnath perform the puja at Omkareshwar during the winter months.
Is darshan crowded here like Kedarnath?
No, darshan at Omkareshwar is much more peaceful and intimate compared to the heavy rush at Kedarnath.
Can elderly devotees visit Omkareshwar easily?
Yes, unlike Kedarnath which requires a long trek, Omkareshwar is easily reachable by road, making it convenient for elderly devotees.
What else can I see near Omkareshwar?
Pilgrims usually combine their visit with Deoria Tal, Tungnath, Chandrashila, and Chopta — all nearby spiritual and natural gems.
Why Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath Feels Special
Standing at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, you realize something profound — God never leaves his devotees. Even when snow buries Kedarnath, Mahadev simply moves to Ukhimath so that his children can continue their darshan.
The temple bells, the smell of incense, the chants of priests — everything here reminds you that faith is not stopped by weather, nor by distance. It flows like the rivers of Uttarakhand, eternal and unbroken.
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