Ukhimath
Ukhimath (also written Okhimath) is a small town and a Hindu pilgrimage sites in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an elevation of 1311 meters and at a distance of 41 km from Rudraprayag. During the winters, the idols from Kedarnath temple, and Madhyamaheshwar are brought to Ukhimath and worshipped here for six months. Ukhimath can be used as center destination for visiting different places located nearby, i.e. Madhyamaheshwar (Second kedar), Tungnath (Third kedar) and Deoria Tal (a natural fresh water lake) and many other picturesque places.[1] According to Hindu Mythology, Wedding of Usha (Daughter of Vanasur) and Anirudh (Grandson of Lord Krishna) was solemnized here. By name of Usha this place was named as Ushamath, now known as Ukhimath. King Mandhata penances Lord Shiva here. During winter the Utsav Doli of Lord Kedarnath is brought from Kedarnath to this place. Winter puja of Lord Kedarnath and year-round puja of Lord Omkareshwar is performed here. This temple is situated at Ukhimath which is at a distance of 41 km from Rudraprayag.[2]
| Ukhimath | |
|---|---|
Ukhimath Temple | |
 Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Hinduism |
| District | Rudraprayag |
| Deity | Winter abode of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar and Tungnath |
| Festivals | Madmaheshwar Mela (Madyu Mela) |
| Location | |
| State | Uttarakhand |
| Country | India |
  Location in Uttarakhand | |
| Geographic coordinates | 30°31′06″N 79°5′43″E |
| Architecture | |
| Type | North Indian architecture |
| Creator | Unknown |
| Completed | Unknown |
| Elevation | 1,311 m (4,301 ft) |
Ukhimath has many other ancient temples dedicated to several Gods and Goddesses such as Usha, Shiva, Aniruddha, Parvati and Mandhata.[3] Situated on the road connecting Guptkashi with Gopeshwar, the holy town is mainly inhabited by the head priests of Kedarnath known as Rawals.
Ukhimath has an All India Radio Relay station known as Akashvani Ukhimath. It broadcasts on FM frequencies.
Gallery
The courtyard around the Ukhimath Temple.
Close view of the mandap pavilion in from the temple.