Temples of Uttarakhand: Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple.
Uttarakhand is a state located in the northern part of India, it is also known as “Devbhoomi” (meaning ‘land of the gods’), due to its religious importance as numerous Hindu temples and and pilgrimage sites are found throughout the state. Because of its divinity and spirituality, the state is best known for its spiritual tourism, which forms a major portion of tourism in the state.
Among the many temples and religious sites, “Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple” is one of the most popular centre of religious sentiments near Ukhimath. Located in Sari Village ( about half k.m uphill trek from Sari village, enroute Deoriya Tal) is visited by hundreds of Shiva devotees all round the year.
Religious importance of Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple:
This temple is dedicated to Nag Devta ( ‘Nag’ means snake and here it refers to the snake carried by shiva on his neck), and can be reached by trekking 1 km uphill from Saari village towards Deoriya tal. The architecture of this temple resembles other famous temples of Uttarakhand in terms of mandap and garbhgriha such as Kedarnath and Tungnath. Inside the temple there is a lingam with a copper coiled around it resembling a Nag (snake).
Moreover, when water is poured over the lingam; it drips down in the form of a wave, resembling a snake. The temple is facing towards the Tungnath temple.
About Sari Village (Omkar Ratneshwar Temple):
Visitors are awe stuck by the beautiful display of colors along with the serenity of the birds chirping and colorful butterflies surrounded by oak and rhododendron trees.
During winters, this place receives snowfall, the entire region is covered with beautiful white carpet, with snow on the tips of the oka trees, which makes this place look heavenly.
The village offers adventure activities like trekking and the scenic beauty of nature. Among all this, there is also the famous Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, which is popularly known as Devariya Nag Temple, dedicated to the Snake God (Nag Devatha).
About Deoriatal Lake (Omkar Ratneshwar Temple):
A beautiful lake located in the middle of the lush green forest and the mountains. What makes trekkers wonder stuck at this tal is the clear reflection of the magnificent images of the mountain along with nature seen in the water.
To reach Deoriatal Lake, one has to trek further one more km from Omkar Ratneshwar Temple. The tal is located near Sari Village.
One can also sight animals in the early morning if you’re lucky, as it is located in the Kedarnath Musk Deer sanctuary.
Many trekkers opt for an overnight stay, to sight animals early in the morning who come to the tal to drink water.
Location of Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple:
Address: G49M+PCP, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand- 246469.
How to reach Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev temple:
The Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev is properly linked with most of the major cities and cities of Uttarakhand. Find below the information on how to reach this temple.
By Air
The nearest airport of chopta is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Which is about 180 km from Chopta.
By Rail
The nearest railway station to Chopta is Rishikesh. Which is about 165 km from Chopta.
By Road
Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple is located on Ukimath-Gopeshwar road, the temple can be reached from Sari village through the 1 km trek.
Entry type to Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple:
There is no entry fee, therefore the temple is free for all devotees. Although, some temples in India and Uttarakhand do have an entry charge.
Best time to visit Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple:
The best time to go to Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple is between the months of September to November and March to May. Traveling during these months is the most enjoyable. During the winter season, the temperature here goes very low, and monsoons receives very heavy rainfall and landslides.
Trekking tips for Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple:
- Littering inside the temple and around the tal is a punishable offence. Hence, avoid polluting the place.
- It is advisable to trek in a group than solo if you are trekking to Deoriatal Lake via the Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple. Venturing alone at night can get very dangerous as wild animals roam free here.
- As it is a remote place you won’t be able to access ATM here. Carry the required amount of cash with you, the last ATM is available near Ukimath.
- Phone signals are also weak in this area, so it is advisable to make all the important phone calls before reaching Sari Village.
Things to carry:
- Backpack and Rain Cover.
- 1 liter of a pet water bottle.
- LED torch/Headlamp
- Poncho
- Umbrella
- Trekking Shoes
- Identity Card.
Places to visit nearby Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple:
- Chandrashila Trek.
- Ukimath
- Chopta to Sari Village.
