Champawat City

Champawat is one of the beautiful cities in Kumaun, attracting a large number of people from afar. Once crowned as the capital of Kumaun, Champawat derives its name from the king Arjun Deo’s princess, Champavati. However, some say the city's name originates from the streams of Champavati. Before gaining its individual status of district in 1997, Champawat was part of Almora and Pithoragarh. Well connected with major parts of the states, the city offers good road, rail and air connectivity.

The city serves as the municipal headquarter of Champawat District. Its lush green surrounding offers a picturesque landscape which is difficult to resonate in words. Beyond its scenic beauty, the city is also a home to many sacred sites frequented by many round the year. As per the legends, Lord Vishnu incarnated here, in the form of a tortoise, known as Kurmavtar and the rock on which he stands is known as Kurmashila. Moreover, the entire hill surrounding it is called Kurmachala and forest as Kurmavana. It is usually belived that these terms derives the name ‘Kumaun.'

There are numerous places that travellers can add to their itinerary. Some of them include Devidhura Temple, Nagnath Temple, Ek Hathiya Naula, Baleshwar Temple, Meetha Reetha Sahib, Lohaghat, Purnagiri Temple, Vanasur-ka-kila, Pancheswar and others. Additionally, there are some other prominent places frequented by many are Aditya temple, dedicated to the Sun of God and Gwal Devta.

According to local folklore, Champavati, the sister of Nagas, performed a great penance near the Baleshwar temple. In her fond memory, the temple courtyard houses a temple dedicated to Champavati. City also houses Gahtku temple, which is dedicated to Ghatotkacha (son of Bhima). It is said that during the Kurukshetra war, his head fell here after he died in the battle.

Apart from this, Champawat is renowned for its delectable sweet called Bal Mithai, which is often found here. Surrounded by lush green tea gardens, Champawat produces one of the finest teas in the region. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Baleshwar temple was built by the Chand rulers during 10 or 12 Centuries. It is one the artistic temples in the Kumaun region whose intricate stone carving is designed by a single artisans.

Moreover, those seeking serenity, Pancheswar located 40 km from Champawat on Nepal-India border is a must to visit. It lies on the confluence of Kali and Saryu river, where you find the animal protector god Chaumu temple, whose presiding deity is Lord Shiva. Champawat temperature and weather is ideal for tea cultivation, which is why you can find various tea gardens here. Tourists can also take a day tour in some of these gardens.

Apart from visiting tourist places, one can also enjoy a day with locals in the hamlet area. They are friendly in nature and always welcome visitors with tea and their local delicacies. Being with them for a day or two, you will gain insights about their daily life and their culture. Most of the people here are Hindu who speak Kumaoni. These people are often known for their cultures and festivals, which they often celebrate by wearing traditional dress and performing dance.