Your Guide to Exploring Champawat

Champawat, the former capital of the Chand dynasty, is a historically and spiritually significant destination in Uttarakhand. Nestled in the Kumaon region, it is famous for its centuries-old temples, forts, and tea gardens. The town’s name is believed to be derived from Princess Champawati, and it holds importance in Hindu mythology as the site of Lord Vishnu’s Kurmavatar (tortoise incarnation).

Places to Visit

1. Baleshwar Temple – An architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva, built by the Chand rulers between the 10th-12th centuries.
2. Nagnath Temple – One of the finest examples of Kumaoni temple architecture, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
3. Golu Devta Temple – A famous shrine dedicated to Golu Devta, a deity revered across Kumaon.
4. Pancheshwar – A sacred site at the confluence of Kali and Saryu rivers, known for the Chaumu temple and an annual fair.
5. Banasur Ka Kila – A medieval fort built in honor of Banasura, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
6. Abbott Mount Church – A colonial-era church built in 1942, surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
7. Ek Hathiya Ka Naula – A finely carved stone structure, believed to be built in one night by a one-handed artisan.

Things to Do

• Village Tourism – Visit Kumaoni villages, interact with locals, and experience traditional hospitality.
• Tea Garden Tours – Explore lush tea estates and taste locally grown tea.
• Angling & Rafting – Try fishing for golden mahseer in the waters of Pancheshwar.
• Heritage Walks – Explore old temples, forts, and colonial structures.

Festivals Celebrated

• Uttarayani Mela – A traditional fair held in January celebrating the harvest season.
• Chaumu Temple Fair – An annual religious event in Pancheshwar.
• Makar Sankranti – Marked by special prayers and fairs in local temples.

Offbeat Activities

• Bird Watching – Spot Himalayan birds in the forests around Champawat.
• Hiking & Trekking – Explore nearby hills and hidden trails.
• Camping – Experience nature by staying in camps around Abbott Mount.