Makkumath is a serene Himalayan village located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an altitude of around 2,100 meters, this peaceful hamlet is surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered Himalayan peaks.
It is best known as the winter seat of Lord Tungnath, one of the Panch Kedar temples. When the Tungnath Temple closes during the winter due to snow, the doli of baba Tungnath is brought to Makkumath, where worship continues with full devotion and traditional rituals.
The Markateshwar Temple in Makkumath is where the sacred Doli (palanquin) of Baba Tungnath is brought during the winter. This temple becomes the spiritual center for pilgrims visiting the region during the off-season.
Spiritual Importance and Traditional Worship
Every year, after Diwali, the idol of Lord Tungnath is brought to Markateshwar Temple in Makkumath in a grand procession accompanied by vedic chants and prayers. The rituals and pujas continue here until May, when the idol is taken back to the Tungnath Temple.
Despite its simplicity, the temple complex in Makkumath holds immense reverence. Pilgrims who cannot visit Tungnath during harsh winters come here to seek blessings in a peaceful setting.
The tradition of shifting the deity helps preserve the sacred connection year-round and allows locals and devotees to maintain their spiritual practices uninterrupted by weather.
Birdwatching Paradise in Makkumath
Makkumath is also known as a birdwatcher’s paradise, thanks to its location within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. The surrounding forests are home to some of the most colorful and rare Himalayan bird species.
You can spot the Himalayan Monal (state bird of Uttarakhand), Himalayan Barbet, Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon, Golden Eagle, and Mountain Hawk Eagle. Other vibrant species include the Kalij Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, Speckled Wood Pigeon, Scarlet Minivet, and Verditer Flycatcher.
The area is also a transit zone for many migratory birds, making it a hotspot for ornithologists and nature photographers throughout the year.
Trekking and Nearby Places to Explore
Makkumath is surrounded by scenic trails and offbeat trekking routes. A short hike around the village offers forest experiences, bird sightings, and peaceful Himalayan vistas.
Trekkers often use Makkumath as a base or detour point for nearby destinations like Chopta, Tungnath, and Chandrashila. The drive to Chopta (14 km away) is scenic and filled with chances to spot Himalayan wildlife.
Nearby religious and cultural places include Ukhimath (winter seat of Kedarnath), Kalimath (a Shakti Peeth), and Sari Village, the base for Deoriatal Lake trek.
Local Life and Culture
The people of Makkumath belong to the Garhwali community and lead a simple mountain life rooted in agriculture, cattle rearing, and temple traditions. Tourism and homestays also contribute to the local economy.
Visitors often get to taste home-cooked meals made with local organic produce, enjoy folk stories, and witness rituals that have been passed down for generations.
How to Reach Makkumath
Makkumath is located about 14 km before Chopta and 24 km from Ukhimath. The last motorable road ends at the village itself.
Buses and shared cabs are available from Rishikesh and Haridwar to Ukhimath. From Ukhimath, you can hire a local taxi or shared vehicle to reach Makkumath. During peak seasons, pre-booking is advised.
How to Reach Makkumath
By Air:
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 215 km from Makkumath. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ukhimath, followed by a short drive to Makkumath. The journey takes approximately 8 hours.
By Train:
The closest major railway stations are Haridwar Junction and Rishikesh Railway Station, located around 190–200 km away. Both stations are well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Lucknow. From there, taxis and buses can take you to Ukhimath and onward to Makkumath.
By Road:
Makkumath is accessible by road and connected to major Uttarakhand towns.
- From Rishikesh: ~210 km (7–8 hours) via Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath.
- From Dehradun: ~230 km (8–9 hours) via Rishikesh.
- From Haridwar: ~220 km (8 hours) via Rishikesh and Rudraprayag.
Buses and shared cabs are available from Rishikesh/Haridwar to Ukhimath. From Ukhimath (24 km away), local taxis or jeeps are available to reach Makkumath.
How to Reach Makkumath from Delhi
You can take a direct overnight bus from ISBT Kashmiri Gate (Delhi) to Rishikesh or Rudraprayag. From there, proceed to Ukhimath and then to Makkumath by local transport.
Total distance: ~450 km
Approx. travel time: 12–13 hours
Local Transportation
Once in Ukhimath, Makkumath is just 24 km away. Shared jeeps and local taxis operate regularly and can be booked on the spot or through your accommodation provider.
Note: Travel times may vary due to weather or road conditions, especially in winter. It’s recommended to confirm the latest transport availability before planning your trip.
Where to Stay in Makkumath
Accommodation in Makkumath mainly includes homestays run by local families, offering clean rooms, warm hospitality, and home-cooked Garhwali meals.
For travelers seeking a more comfortable stay, you can book your accommodation at Heaven Hills Cottages by Montaxe in nearby Sari Village. These wooden cottages come with attached washrooms, great valley views, and easy access to Deoriatal, Chopta, and Makkumath.
To know more about trekking experiences in the region, you can check out the Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila Trek itinerary offered by Montaxe. For a deep dive into the charm of Sari Village, visit this detailed guide. And if you’re planning your spiritual journey, don’t miss the Tungnath Temple 2025 opening and closing dates to plan your visit accordingly.
