Quick Bytes :

Location : Uttarakhand

Attractions : Baleshwar Temple, Nagnath Temple

Best Season : April to June and September to October

Languages / Dialect : Kumaoni, Hindi and English

Pious Land of Kurmavtar :

The city of Champwat was previously the capital of Chand Raja who hailed in Kumaon. The city is located at an altitude of 1615 m above sea level. The Hindu deity Lord Vishnu is supposed to have appeared on earth to save it from major fiascos in different incarnation. Kurmavatar is one of the major reincarnations of Lord Vishnu and it is believed that from Champawat lord Vishnu incarnated as Kurmavatar.  Hence, the region is named as Kumaon.

Attractions for Pilgrims :

The region of Champawat has several Hindu temples that draw several devotees to come for a holy journey. Baleshwar is one of the popular Temples in Champawat. Unconventional temples like Hidimba -Ghatotkach Temple is a major attraction in the city. Other temples are Hingla Devi , Narsinh Danda, Maneshwar, Karanteshwar, Ratneshwar, Durga and the Surya temple located at Ramak village. The city is adorned by a small fort which is worth a visit.

Prime Attractions :

Baleshwar Temple :

The cluster of temples at Baleshwar are dedicated to the deities namely,  Ratneshwar , Baleshwar and Champawati Durga. The group of temples was built by the early rulers of Chand dynasty. A visit to the temple complex will revel how intricate the structural designs and the designs defy the erosion of time and still showcases the marvelous carvings. The carvings on the temple walls and pillars hold within itself the glory of the Indian architecture in ancient times.

Nagnath Temple :

This is yet another ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple bears a tragic past as it was demolished by the invaders of Rohilla and Gorkha tribes, during 8th century. The temple proudly showcases a magnum doorway carved excellently. The edifice is a double-storied wooden structure that is the sole remnant now. The Nagnath temple is a brilliant specimen of the traditional Kumaoni temple architecture.

Several excursions to eminent temples of Champawat can add thrill to your trip. Located near the city there are temples such as Punyagiri Temple, Mayawati Ashram and Devidhura temple. The Ashram was sanctified by Swami Vivekananda and the temple are wuite popular. The verdant surroundings on the way will make the journey to these laces wonderful and pleasant.