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Ukhimath, Uttarakhand, India

Ukhimath, Uttarakhand, India

About the Ukhimath

Ukhimath is a small town and a significant religious site in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It serves as the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath and Goddess Madhyamaheshwar. During the winter months (November to April), when the Kedarnath temple is closed due to heavy snowfall, the idols of Lord Kedarnath are brought down to Ukhimath for worship. The town offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, a peaceful atmosphere, and a glimpse into the rich religious traditions of the region.

Best Time to Visit

October to June. The winter months (November to April) are best for visiting the Omkareshwar Temple to see the idols of Lord Kedarnath and Lord Madhyamaheshwar. Summer months (May-June) provide pleasant weather for trekking and sightseeing. Avoid monsoon season (July-September) due to heavy rainfall and landslides.

Trip Duration

2 days 3 days
2-3 days are sufficient to explore Ukhimath and its nearby attractions.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Ukhimath

Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple
Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Deoria Taal
Deoria Taal
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple
Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Activities / Things To Do in Ukhimath

  • Visit Omkareshwar Temple Spend time at the Omkareshwar Temple, admiring its architecture and experiencing the spiritual atmosphere. Witness the daily rituals and prayers offered to Lord Kedarnath and Lord Madhyamaheshwar.
  • Explore the Local Markets Wander through the local markets of Ukhimath and interact with the local people. You can find souvenirs, religious artifacts, and local handicrafts.
  • Trekking and Hiking Ukhimath serves as a base camp for several treks in the region, including the Deoria Tal trek, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Shorter hikes around Ukhimath are also available.
  • Meditation and Yoga The serene environment of Ukhimath makes it an ideal place for meditation and yoga. Several guesthouses and retreats offer yoga and meditation sessions.
  • Photography Capture the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan landscape, the Omkareshwar Temple, and the local culture through photography. The sunrise and sunset views are particularly spectacular.

Ukhimath Best Restaurant | Your Ultimate Dining Guide

Annapurna Hotel
Annapurna Hotel
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

Rudra palace
Rudra palace
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

India's First Tea Shop
India's First Tea Shop
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Accommodation

Hotel Snow View, Chopta
Hotel Snow View, Chopta
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Kedar Camp Resorts
Kedar Camp Resorts
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Rudra palace
Rudra palace
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

How to Reach Ukhimath

Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (DED), which is about 196 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ukhimath.

Car

Ukhimath is accessible by car. However, be mindful of road conditions, especially during monsoon.

Bus

Ukhimath is well-connected to major cities in Uttarakhand by road. Regular buses and taxis are available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and other towns. The road journey offers scenic views of the Himalayas.

Train

The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (RKSH), which is about 180 km away. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ukhimath.

Important Notes

Carry warm clothes, even during summer, as the weather in Ukhimath can be unpredictable.
Respect the local culture and traditions.
Be aware of the potential for landslides during the monsoon season.
Carry necessary medications and a first-aid kit.
Obtain necessary permits for trekking and visiting certain areas.
ATMs are limited in Ukhimath, so carry sufficient cash.
Network connectivity might be unstable.

Ukhimath Nearby Destinations

Chopta

Chopta

Known as the 'Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand', a base for trekking to Tungnath and Chandrashila.

Distance : 19 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.7

Popularity Score : 4.7

Must Visit : Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak.

Deoria Taal

Deoria Taal

A pristine lake surrounded by forests, offering stunning reflections of the Chaukhamba peaks.

Distance : 14 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.6

Popularity Score : 4.6

Must Visit : Camping near Deoria Tal, trek around the lake.

Joshimath

Joshimath

A gateway to several Himalayan expeditions, trekking trails and pilgrimage centres.

Distance : 48 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.6

Popularity Score : 4.6

Must Visit : Narsingh Temple, Kalpavriksha and Ropeway to Auli.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ukhimath famous for?
Ukhimath is famous for being the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath and Lord Madhyamaheshwar. The idols are brought here for worship during the winter months when the main temples are closed due to heavy snowfall.
Is Ukhimath a good place to visit?
Yes, Ukhimath is a good place to visit for those seeking a peaceful and spiritual experience. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is a base for several treks in the region.
What is the best time to visit Ukhimath?
The best time to visit Ukhimath is from October to June. The winter months (November to April) are ideal for visiting the Omkareshwar Temple to see the idols of Lord Kedarnath and Lord Madhyamaheshwar. Summer months (May-June) provide pleasant weather for trekking and sightseeing.
How far is Ukhimath from Kedarnath?
Ukhimath is approximately 45 km from Kedarnath by road and trek (combination of road travel till Gaurikund and then a trek to Kedarnath). However, Ukhimath *is* the winter seat of Kedarnath, meaning the deity is worshipped there during the winter months when Kedarnath is inaccessible.
Are there ATMs in Ukhimath?
ATMs are limited in Ukhimath, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash.
What kind of clothes should I pack for Ukhimath?
Pack warm clothes, including jackets, sweaters, and thermal wear, especially if you are visiting during the winter months. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable, so carry light woolens.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude 30.5667, Longitude 79.0667 (Ukhimath, Uttarakhand, India)