Bageshwar, known as the “City of Temples” is an integral part of Kumaun Division. Located 315 km away from Dehradun, this city is easily accessible by road, train and air. Situated on the confluence of two sacred Saryu and Gomti rivers, the city is surrounded by Bhileshwar and Nileshwar mountains, which offers an enchanting view of the landscapes. Bageshwar serves as the headquarters of the Bageshwar district, which was established in the year 1997.
Before its formation, Bageshwar was part of Almora district and known as Danpur. Over the centuries, Bageshwar was ruled by various rulers, among them Katyuri kings ruled the city during 7th Century AD. In the 13th Century, it came under the rule of Baijnath, the descendants of Katyuri Kingdom. However, the Katyuri king's reign ended by the Chand dynasty who invaded the area during 1565. Later, the Chand dynasty ended by the Gorkhas of Nepal who ruled the area for 24 years only until they were defeated by the British. Historically, Bageshwar was known as the centre of trade between Kumaon and Tibet.
However, the trade was seized after the Indo- China War. The city is a home to many ancient temples, like Baijnath, Bagnath, Chandika, Sirharu, Gauri Udiyar, Agni Kund, Jwala Devi, Bhileshwar, Nileshwar, Suraj Kund and many more. Of these, Bagnath temple is the most popular pilgrim site, which is frequented most. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Bagnath temple is situated at the confluence of Saryu and Gomati rivers. It is a highly revered temple in the city, whose significance can also be found in Skanda Purana. Moreover, its mention can also be read in Shiva Purana Manas Khand, which said the temple and city Bageshwar's name derives from an interesting folklore.
According to the legend, when sage Markandeya was engrossed in the worship of Shiva, Lord Shiva pleased with his devotion and incarnated in the form of a tiger to give blessings. Since then, the city has been known as Bageshwar. The Kumaun region is renowned for its traditions and customs, and even today's generation follow the culture and rituals inherited by their ancestors. Such traditions are evident in festivals like Bikhoti, Harela, Simha and Ghee Sankranti, Kojagar, and Haritali Vrat. Villagers often celebrate these festivals with their traditional dance and attire.
Among these festivals, Uttarayani, celebrated on Makar Sankranti, is considered to be the biggest festival of the entire Kumaon region, drawing a number of people from afar. Tourists can enjoy various adventurous activities in Bageshwar. Among them, trekking was the foremost choice. Pindari glacier, Sunderdhunga glacier, Kaphni Glacier and Namil Glacier trek often frequented by amateur and seasoned trekkers. Though the city has enough places to explore, there are some major nearby attractions that tourists can explore like Pandusthal, Kausani, Baijnath, Gauri Udiyar, Vijaypur, Kanda and Chandika Temple.
If you want to enjoy the serenity in the lap of nature and spirituality, Bageshwar is the perfect destination for you. It gives you immense peace of mind and calmness that is difficult to find anywhere. With its perfect blend of rich ancient history, temples, rivers, and mountains, Bageshwar is such a place that can captivate you any day.