Makkumath Temple | Makkumath Village Tourism – Chopta Tour

Exoticaltrails@gmail.com March 18, 2025Blog

Why should you visit Makkumath?

Makkumath Temple is a tiny small village with scenic beauty in the Chopta Region with the identity of thick Oak, Deodar Forest with birding paradise in Himalaya and winter seat of Lord Tungnath in Markandeya temple. Hope you can’t miss this place.

Makkumath Introduction

Makkumath is a small mountain village situated at an elevation of 2100 m in District Rudraprayag of Uttarakhand. This is known for its religious and wildlife importance in Uttarakhand. Makkumath is surrounded by a thick green forest of oak, deodar, and rhododendron, which makes the village so scenic. Makkumath village provides a pleasant environment for nature lovers and spiritual peace seekers. It is well connected by road to Rudraprayag city.

Reasons to visit Makkumath, Uttarakhand

• Winter seat of Tungnath
• Bird watcher paradise
• Himalayan Village tourism
• Religious experience
• Explore the scenic beauty of the Himalaya

Makkumath Temple

Makkumath is the winter seat of Lord Tungnath, who is worshipped in the Markandeya temple in winters. Many pilgrims worshiped Lord Tungnath in this temple in the winters at Makkumath. Lord Tungnath is Tritiya Kedar among five Kedar.

In the summer season, pilgrims have done the five Kedar yatra to darshan of the Shiva temples and complete this religious journey of the panch Kedar. But in the winter season, Panch Kedar temples are closed due to snowfall, and all the gods were worshipped in their winter seats.

Makkumath temple history and Cultural Importance

The Makkumath temple is named after the sage Mrikand, also known as Markateshwar Temple, who is believed to have meditated in the region. The idol of Lord Tunganath remains in Makkumath for the winters from November to April, allowing devotees to worship Lord Tunganath in all seasons.

Architecture of Makkumath Temple

The Makkumath temple is not as elaborate as the Tungnath temple, but it impresses everyone with its unique charm and architectural beauty. The temple has a mix of wood and stone elements and reflects the traditional craftsmanship.

The sanctum sanctorum in the main temple is constructed in a very plain and artistic way, where the main deity is installed. Patterns of Hindu deities are carved on the temple, and it is well decorated.

The temple exterior features carved wooden pillars and a slanted roof, enabling these to stay snowfall-ready during winter months in the area. The use of traditional methods in the temple gives a feeling of peace and simplicity inside the temple.

Makkumath to Chopta

Makkumath to Chopta is a 21 Km distance. This is a beautiful 35-minute drive with sceinic Himalayan view where you get an amazing experience. Enroute you can visit Dugal bitta meadow, some camp sites, and forest trails.

Weather in Makkumath, Uttarakhand

Makkumath is a Himalayan village under the Thick Oak, Deodar Forest. All these things make the weather so pleasant. You may visit Makkumath all around the year. It’s an ideal place to spend valuable time.

In the summers, Makkumath weather is pleasant and clear. You may enjoy bird watching around Makkumath village and see rare species of Himalayan birds. In the monsoon season, the weather suddenly changes here. So, while traveling in the monsoon season, be aware of road conditions and get the weather forecast.

In the winter, the temperature is very low and the weather is so cold; if you are visiting in the winter, carry heavy woolen clothes. You may get snow here, and you can enjoy the nearest trek to Chopta, Deoria Tal, in the snow to get an awesome experience. You can see snow-capped mountains, which make your trip.

What is the best time of the year to visit Makku math?

Makkumath can be visited throughout the year; however, the period from March to May and October to February is the best to visit here, as here you get spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges along with natural views. Also, the darshan of Lord Tungnath is done here during the Sheet Kaal. If you are a snow lover, then you can visit Makkumath in winter. You get the experience of snowfall here and in the Chopta.

The best time to visit Makku math temple is mainly from March to May and October to February.

March to May:

This period of spring marks the transition from winter to summer, which is favored by pleasant weather and blooming flora. This time is an ideal time for trekking and bird watching enthusiasts, as you can spot many migratory birds here during this time. The number of visitors to the temple also increases during this time due to the favorable weather, and many devotees seek blessings before the onset of summer.

October to February:

During this winter season from November to April, the idol of Lord Tungnath is brought to Makkumath from its summer residence due to heavy snowfall, so devotees who cannot climb the Tungnath temple can avail the darshan here at this time. In winter, it offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, which attracts those interested in winter sports and snow trekking.

During the winter months when the idol of Lord Tunganath is brought to Makku math, many local festivals are celebrated here. These include cultural programs and celebrations to strengthen the local traditions and enhance the feeling of unity among the villagers and pilgrims from other places.

Village Tourism in Makku Math:

With village tourism in Makkumath village, you get a chance to live with the warmth and generosity of the local people. Makkumath village can be visited in the lush green environment and quiet lanes of the village. Taste rural home cuisine along with getting information about cultural practices and heritage with the villagers.

What wildlife can be spotted around Makku Math Temple

Makkumath and its surrounding areas are famous for a diverse range of wildlife, especially the many species of birds that attract ornithologists and nature lovers alike. Here are some notable wildlife attractions:

Bird Species

Makkumath is famous for its bird watching, with both high-altitude and low-altitude Himalayan birds found. Some of the notable species are:

• Himalayan Shrike-Babbler
• Rusty-cheeked Scimitar-Babbler
• Yellow-billed Blue-Magpie
• Yellow-breasted Greenfinch
• Crested Serpent-Eagle
• Gray-headed Woodpecker
• Fire-capped Tit
• Verditer Flycatcher
• Chestnut-crowned Laughing Thrush
• Oriental Turtle Dove
• Black Drongo

Flora and Fauna in Makkumath

The Makkumath area is completely covered with lush green forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine trees, which provide a suitable habitat for various wildlife. The diverse ecosystem makes it a perfect habitat for not only birds but also other small mammals and insects that thrive in the serene environment.

Kanchula Kharak Musk Deer Sanctuary

Near Makkumath, lies the Kanchula Kharak Musk Deer Sanctuary which is dedicated to the conservation of musk deer and other fauna. This sanctuary serves to enhance biodiversity and helps in wildlife observation.

Places to visit near in Makkumath, Uttarakhand

Chopta

Chopta is a mini-Switzerland of Uttarakhand situated at an elevation of 2608 m. Chopta hill station offers the best trip option to all kinds of tourists. This is the center of Panch Kedar trek.

Tungnath

Tungnath is Tritiya Kedar and the famous temple of Lord Shiva. In summer Tungnath worshipped here. And in winters due to heavy snowfall temple is closed and Tungnath Ji is worshipped in Makkumath.

Chandrashila

Chandrashila is situated at an elevation of 4000 m. Chandrashila is 1.5 Km from Tungnath temple and 4.5 Km from Chopta. Chandrashila top offers an all-round view of Chopta valley.

Kanchula Korak musk deer sanctuary

Kanchula Korak musk deer sanctuary is a famous wildlife sanctuary near Makkumath and in Chopta.

Deoria Tal

Deoria Tal is a mountain lake located at 3 Km from the Sari village. The lake is famous for its mythical importance. This is the most winter trekking option for anyone to witness natural beauty.

Dugalbitta

Dugalbitta is a meadow 8 km from Chopta between the thick oak forest. This meadow is a good place to spend some time close to nature.

Things to do in Makkumath

Village Tourism in Makkumath

With village tourism in Makkumath village, you get a chance to live with the warmth and generosity of the local people. Makkumath village can be visited in the lush green environment and quiet lanes of the village. Taste rural home cuisine along with getting information about cultural practices and heritage with the villagers.

Birding in Makkumath

In Makkumath you see many birds like White-Throated Laughingthrush, Himalayan Rubythroat, Grey Bushchat, Green Backed Tit, Tyler’s Leaf warbler, Tickell’s Leaf warbler, Spotted forktail, Himalayan Griffon, Himalayan woodpecker, House Sparrow and many more.

Hiking

Hiking is the major activity to do in Makkumath. You hike to explore the village and around the village area to see birds, flora, and fauna through the nature trails in the thick Oak Forest.

Photography

Makkumath is the best place for photographers to get memorable clicks of lush green beauty and mountains to collect moments for a lifetime. Makkumath is the place for Bird photographers offering many Bird Species to click through Camera and collect more valuable bird information to his collection.

Trekking

People also trek to near Makkumath. Makkumath offers trekking trails to Chopta, Tungnath, Chamndrashila, Deoriatal, and many more places.

Educational experience

Makkumath also offers a learning experience to anyone. You may see and get Knowledge about Himalayan culture, Village life, tradition, local foods, and religious myths.

Location and Access

The village of Makkumath is located at an altitude of around 2100 m surrounded by dense oak, pine and deodar forests. It offers a pleasant environment for nature lovers and spiritual peace seekers and is one of the best places to visit. It is very easy to reach here. The area is well connected by road to Rudraprayag town.

The nearest railway station to reach Makkumath is Rishikesh (around 180 km away), and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 200 km away.

How to Reach Makkumath?

By Train

The nearest railway station Rishikesh is 185 km and Haridwar from Makkumath is located at 208 Km. Haridwar is connected to all cities in India.

By flight

Jolly Grant airport is the nearest airport which is is 201 Km from Makkumath.

By road

You can reach Makkumath by road from Ukhimah, Rudraprayag or other cities. by road there are two ways to reach here.

Route 1: Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Ukhimath – Makkumath

Total distance = 210 Km

You can travel from Rishikesh via Bus, sharing cab, or private taxi to Ukhimath and then take another sharing taxi or book a private taxi to reach Makkumath.

Route 2: Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Bhiri – Makkumath  

Total distance = 185 Km

You can take a bus from Rishikesh bus stand or take a sharing cab from Natraj Chowk to reach Rudraprayag or Bhiri which is en route to Ukhimath. Bhiri is 12 Km from Agastymuni and 5 Km from Chandrapuri. From where you can take a sharing cab easily.

After reaching Bhiri. You can take another sharing cab to Makkumath. If you are in your vehicle then after Bhiri you have to take a right turn which is going to Makkumath. Bhiri to Makkumath distance is 16 Km.

Travel tip to Makku Math

• Get cash with you because Makkumath has no ATM. The nearest ATM is in Ukhimath, Agastmuni.
• The nearest petrol pump is in Kund.
• There are no major shops or hotels so get the essentials with you.

Where to stay in Makkumath?

There are some guest house avilable in Makkumath. Here you will find normal guest houses or homestays. You will also find many camp sites around Makkumath where you can enjoy adventure while staying amidst nature.

Things to carry

• Woolen clothes
• Jacket and hood with cap
• Torch with extra batteries
• Necessary medicine
• Personal toiletries

Makkumath Distance chart

Conclusion

Makkumath is a hidden gem in Chopta with the scenic beauty of Himalayan village and culture. Makkumath is the winter seat of Tungnath which is worshipped here in winters. You may also view many Himalayan birds’ species here.