Omkareshwar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the town of Ukhimath in Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the four important shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered to be one of the most sacred places of worship in the region.
The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile and is said to be one of the twelve jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated on the banks of the Mandakini River and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, making it a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. also read - Pandukeshwar Temple
During the winter months, when the famous Kedarnath Temple is closed due to heavy snowfall, the deity from Kedarnath Temple is shifted to Omkareshwar Temple and worshipped here for six months, making it an important center of pilgrimage during this time.
Visitors to the temple can also explore the nearby scenic beauty, including the beautiful Mandakini River and the lush green forests that surround the temple. Whether you are a devotee of Lord Shiva or simply looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of India, the Omkareshwar Temple is a must-visit destination.
Story Behind Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath
The story behind the Omkareshwar Temple is steeped in mythology and tradition. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva was once meditating at this site when the gods and demons were churning the ocean to extract the elixir of immortality. When Lord Shiva was disturbed from his meditation, he became angry and threatened to destroy the world. To pacify him, the gods offered him a gold lingam, which he accepted and placed on the banks of the Mandakini River. Also Read - Ukhimath - the Beautiful town in the lap of Himalaya
It is believed that whoever worships the lingam at this site will receive blessings from Lord Shiva and attain salvation. As a result, the site became a place of pilgrimage for devotees of Lord Shiva and the temple was built around the lingam to enshrine it.
Over time, the temple has undergone several renovations and additions, but the original lingam remains at its heart, making it one of the most important shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is also considered to be one of the twelve jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
The Architect Of Omkareshwar Temple
The exact architect of the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is not known. However, it is believed to have been built in the Nagara style of Hindu temple architecture, which was prevalent in northern India during the medieval period. The Nagara style is characterized by its distinctive shikhara or tower over the sanctum, which tapers to a point, and the use of sculptural elements such as intricate carvings and decorative motifs. Also Read - MadMaheshwar Temple Rudraprayag
In addition to the temple architecture, the surrounding landscape, and natural surroundings are also considered an important parts of the temple complex, and the temple grounds are often surrounded by trees, gardens, and other natural features.
HOW TO REACH OMKARESHWAR TEMPLE UKHIMATH
The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is located in the Uttarakhand state of India, and can be reached by several modes of transportation.
By Air: The nearest airport to Ukhimath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 190 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Ukhimath.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Ukhimath is Rishikesh, which is approximately 160 km away. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Ukhimath.
By Road: Ukhimath is well connected by road to other cities in Uttarakhand and surrounding states. Regular buses and taxis are available from nearby cities to reach Ukhimath.
Once you reach Ukhimath, you can take a taxi or walk to the Omkareshwar Temple, which is located within the town. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year and there is no entry fee to visit the temple.
Things To Bring offer Prayer in Omkareshwar Temple
Devotees visiting the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath may offer prayers to Lord Shiva by bringing offerings such as:
Flowers: Fresh flowers, especially bel leaves, are considered auspicious offerings to Lord Shiva. Devotees often bring these to offer at the shrine and place them around the deity.
Fruits and sweets: Offerings of fruits and sweets, such as bananas and laddus, are also commonly brought by devotees as a sign of respect and gratitude to Lord Shiva.
Coconut: A whole coconut is considered a powerful offering to Lord Shiva and is often broken open at the shrine as a symbol of breaking the ego.
Milk and Ghee: Milk and ghee are also commonly offered to Lord Shiva as a symbol of purity and nourishment.
Bhasma or Vibhuti: Bhasma or Vibhuti, which is sacred ash made from cow dung, is considered a powerful offering to Lord Shiva. Devotees often bring this to offer at the shrine and place it on their forehead as a symbol of devotion.
These offerings are not mandatory and the most important part of visiting the temple is the devotion and intention with which the devotee comes to offer prayers. It is recommended to respect the customs and traditions of the temple and follow the guidelines set by the temple authorities.
Q&A -
Where is Omkareshwar temple in Uttarakhand?
The Omkareshwar Temple is located in the town of Ukhimath in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand state in India. Ukhimath is situated in the northern region of India and is known for its scenic beauty and pilgrimage sites. The Omkareshwar Temple is one of the important Hindu temples in the area and attracts many devotees and tourists throughout the year.
Which Loard dedicated in Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath ?
The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. Lord Shiva is worshipped as the destroyer of ignorance and negativity, and as the bringer of peace, prosperity and spiritual enlightenment.
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