- Shiva
Omkareshwar Temple
- Ukhimath,Uttarakhand
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Overview
Ukhimath is among the oldest pilgrimage sites of India located in the Rudraprayag district of the state Uttarakhand, India. Ukhimath is situated at an altitude of 1311m above the sea level and is about 41kms from Rudraprayag. This temple is also popularly called “Omkareshwar Pith” and houses the deities of Kedarnath and Madmaheswar. Deities from Kedarnath are brought to this temple after Diwali and during December from the Madmaheswar temple. These deities are kept in this temple for worship for around six months. The deities are then taken back to their original temples in a grand procession during the month of May.
About The Temple
Omkareshwar Temple boasts of a famous stone statue of King Mandhata. Legend goes by that during his last years, King Mandhata is said to have given up all his worldly wealth including his empire. He was spiritually inclined and thus came to Ukimath and performed penance for 12 years long years, standing on a single leg. Lord Shiva who was moved by his penance, is said to have appeared in the form of sound 'Omkar', and had blessed the devoted king. Henceforth, this place came to be called Omkareshwar. There is also a general belief that the wedding of Usha, the daughter of Vanasur and Anirudh, the grandson of Lord Krishna was solemnized at this place. Thus the place was initially called Ushamath, but later got changed colloquially to Ukhimath.
The town of Ukhimath is full of several ancient hindu shrines dedicated to Usha, Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Aniruddha and king Mandhata. Ukhimath is predominantly inhabited by the ‘Rawals’, who are the head priests (pundits) of Kedarnath temple. The picturesque snow clad peaks of the mighty Himalayan range are distinctly visible from Ukhimath. The holy Kedarnath, Chaukhamba peaks are seen from Ukhimath on a clear day. Ukhimath has direct bus services from Rudraprayag Gaurikund, Guptkashi & Srinagar.
Best time to visit
The winter months starting from November to April is most ideal to visit this temple. During this time the temples of Kedarnath and Madhmaheshwar remain closed. Ukhimath temple is open throughout the year.
How To Reach
Airport
The Jolly Grand Airport located at Dehradhun is the nearest Airport to Ukhimath which is at the distance of 94 kms.
Railways
Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest Station that is around 10.4 kms from Ukhimath.
Road
The temple is located 44 km away from Rudraprayag bus stand.
Temple Address
Omkareshwar Temple,
Ukhimath, Rudraprayag,
Uttarakhand.
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- Salvation
- Wealth
- Relief from diseases
- Purchase of vehicles
- Gain Knowledge
Shlokas
Kailaasarana Shiva Chandramouli Phaneendra Maathaa Mukutee Zalaalee Kaarunya Sindhu Bhava Dukha Haaree Thujaveena Shambho Maja Kona Taaree
Meaning -Oh Lord Shiva who is seated on Mount Kailash, where the moon decorates his forehead and the king of serpents crown his head, who is merciful and removes delusion, You alone can protect me. I surrender to thee.
Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey Sugandhim Pusti Vardhanam Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat
Meaning -We worship the fragrant Lord Shiva, who has 3 eyes and who cultivates all beings. May He free me from death, for immortality, as even a cucumber is separated from its bond with the vine.
Timings
The temple is open from 6AM to 9PM.