Ukhimath is a small town located in the Rudraprayag district of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. Situated at an elevation of 1,318 meters above sea level, it is surrounded by the majestic Himalayan ranges and is known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.
Ukhimath Uttarakhand
Ukhimath is a popular destination for tourists who come to visit the nearby Kedarnath and Badrinath temples, which are two of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the region. The town also serves as the winter home of the deities of Kedarnath, who are worshipped at the Ukhimath Temple (Omkareshwar Temple) during the winter months when the main temples are closed due to heavy snowfall.
Apart from its religious significance, Ukhimath is also a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts. The nearby Chaukhamba peak offers opportunities for trekking and rock climbing.
Overall, Ukhimath is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the peaceful beauty of nature.
There are several places to visit in Ukhimath that are worth exploring:
Kedarnath Temple: Located about 45 kilometers from Ukhimath, the Kedarnath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples in India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is open to devotees from April to November and is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
Omkareshwar Temple: During the winter months, when the Kedarnath and Badrinath temples are closed, the deities are worshipped at the Ukhimath Temple. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year.
Chaukhamba peak: Located in the nearby Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, the Chaukhamba peak offers opportunities for trekking and rock climbing.
Deoria Tal: Located about 15 kilometers from Ukhimath, Deoria Tal is a beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by forests and snow-capped mountains. It is a popular destination for photography and picnics.
Best time to Visit Ukhimath
Summer Season (April to June):
Summer is a good time to visit Ukhimath if you want to go trekking or want to explore the Sari village and Deoria Tal. The weather is warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. However, it is advisable to avoid visiting during the month of May as the region experiences heavy rainfall during this time.
Monsoon Season (July to September):
The monsoon season is not the best time to visit Ukhimath as the region experiences heavy rainfall and landslides are common. The weather is cool and humid, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
Winter Season (October to March):
Winter is a good time to visit Ukhimath if you want to experience the snow-capped mountains and enjoy skiing and other winter sports. The weather is cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C. However, it is important to note that the Kedarnath and Badrinath temples are closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
Overall, the best time to visit Ukhimath depends on your preferences and the activities you want to do. If you want to experience the beauty of the snow-capped mountains and enjoy skiing and other winter sports, then the winter season is the best time to visit. If you want to go trekking or rock climbing, then the summer season is a good option. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful and serene atmosphere, then the monsoon season is a good choice.
How to Reach Ukhimath
Ukhimath is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and the rest of India. The town is located about 45 kilometers from Kedarnath and 168 kilometers from Badrinath, two of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the region. Here are the different ways you can reach Ukhimath:
By Bus:
Ukhimath is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and the rest of India. The nearest bus station is in Rudraprayag, about 30 kilometers away. From there, you can take a local bus or hire a taxi to reach Ukhimath.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Ukhimath is Rishikesh, about 183 kilometers away. From Rishikesh, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Ukhimath.
By Flight:
The nearest airport to Ukhimath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 197 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Ukhimath.
By Private Taxi:
You can also hire a private taxi from any major city in Uttarakhand or from Delhi to reach Ukhimath. This is a convenient option if you want to travel at your own pace and have the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas.
