Champawat is a city and a municipality in Champawat district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is located in the Kumaon division of the state, and is the administrative headquarters of Champawat district. The city has a population of around 15,000 people, and is known for its historical and cultural significance. The region is home to several ancient temples and historical sites, including the Champawat Tiger Temple, which is dedicated to the man-eating Bengal tiger that was shot in Champawat in 1907. The local economy is primarily agricultural, with rice, wheat, and maize being the main crops grown in the area.
The region is known for its natural beauty and is a paradise for nature lovers, with the Himalayan mountain range and several local forests and waterfalls located in close proximity to the city.
One of the best spots for hiking and sightseeing in the Champawat area is the Himalayan mountain range. The range, which is home to several peaks over 8,000 meters tall, offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for trekking and mountaineering. The Pindari Glacier, located in the nearby town of Bageshwar, is another popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.
The forest is home to a variety of flora and fauna and is a popular spot for picnicking and birdwatching. The Pancheshwar Temple Forest, located in the ancient town of Pancheshwar, is another beautiful spot for camping and sightseeing. In addition to these natural attractions, Champawat is also home to several waterfalls.
One of the most prominent cultural traditions in Champawat is the music and dance of the Kumaon region. The Kumaoni folk music and dance are an integral part of the region’s culture and are performed at various festivals and events throughout the year. The most popular Kumaoni instruments are the dhol, daur, and jhanjh, which are used to create a lively and rhythmic sound.
Another important cultural tradition in Champawat is the celebration of festivals. The city is home to a number of festivals throughout the year, including Holi, Diwali, and Dussehra. These festivals are an important part of the city’s cultural fabric and are celebrated with music, dance, and feasts.
Food In Champawat
The city is home to a diverse array of culinary traditions, with a number of local specialties and dishes that are a must-try for food lovers.
One of the most famous local specialties in Champawat is bhang ki chutney, a spicy condiment made from ground hemp seeds. Bhang ki chutney is typically served with roti or rice and is a popular dish in the region. Another local specialty is singodi, a type of sweet made from milk and flour. Singodi is a popular snack and is often served at festivals and celebrations.
In addition to these local specialties, Champawat is also home to a number of more familiar dishes, including rice, lentils, and vegetables. These dishes are typically served with a variety of spices and seasonings, and are a staple of the local cuisine.
For those looking to try the local cuisine, there are a number of great places to eat in Champawat. Some of the best restaurants in the city include The Kumaon Kitchen, which serves traditional Kumaoni dishes, and The Himalayan Dining Room, which offers a wide range of Indian and international cuisine.
Champawat Economy
The city’s economy is primarily agricultural, with rice, wheat, and maize being the main crops grown in the area.
Agriculture plays a vital role in the economy of Champawat and the surrounding region, with a large portion of the population working in the agriculture sector. The region is known for its fertile soil and abundant water resources, which make it ideal for growing crops. In addition to rice, wheat, and maize, other crops grown in the area include pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables.
The local agriculture industry is supported by a number of government initiatives, including irrigation projects and agricultural extension services. These initiatives aim to improve crop yields and support the growth of the agriculture sector.
In addition to agriculture, other important sectors of the economy in Champawat include tourism, handicrafts, and small businesses. The city is home to a number of small-scale industries, including textiles, handicrafts, and food processing.
Overall, the economy of Champawat is driven by agriculture, with rice, wheat, and maize being the main crops grown in the area. However, the city is also home to a number of other important sectors, including tourism, handicrafts, and small businesses.
A guide to the city’s outdoor adventures:
One of the best spots for outdoor adventure in the Champawat area is the Himalayan mountain range, which is located in close proximity to the city. The range, which is home to several peaks over 8,000 meters tall, offers a wide range of activities, including trekking, mountaineering, and rock climbing. The Pindari Glacier, located in the nearby town of Bageshwar, is another popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.
For those interested in water-based activities, the local rivers offer a wide range of options. The Saryu and Kali rivers, which flow through the region, are popular spots for rafting and kayaking. The rivers are also home to a variety of fish, making them a great spot for fishing. Overall, Champawat is a city that offers a wide range of options for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Himalayan mountain range, local rivers, and forests all located in close proximity to the city.
A profile of the city’s art and crafts:
The city is known for its rich tradition of handicrafts and textiles, with a number of local artisans specializing in the production of woolen shawls, carpets, and other handmade items.
One of the most famous handicrafts produced in Champawat is the Kumaoni shawl, a hand-woven woolen shawl that is known for its intricate patterns and bright colors. The shawls are made by local artisans using traditional techniques and are a popular souvenir for tourists visiting the region. In addition to shawls, Champawat is also known for its hand-woven carpets, which are made using a variety of materials including wool, silk, and cotton.
The art and crafts industry plays an important role in the local economy of Champawat, with a number of small-scale industries and cooperatives dedicated to the production of handicrafts. These industries provide employment and income for many local artisans and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.
In addition to the production of handicrafts, Champawat is also home to a number of art galleries and exhibitions that showcase the work of local artists. These galleries and exhibitions provide an important platform for local artists to display their work and reach a wider audience.
Overall, the art and crafts industry is an important part of the local economy and culture of Champawat, with a number of local artisans specializing in the production of woolen shawls, carpets, and other handmade items.
Stay in Champawat
If you are planning to visit Champawat and are looking for accommodation, there are a number of options available. The city is home to a number of hotels, guest houses, and homestays, which offer a range of facilities and amenities to suit different budgets and preferences.
Some popular hotels in Champawat include the Kumaon Regency Hotel, which is a 3-star hotel located in the heart of the city, and the Hotel Ashok, which is a budget hotel located in the nearby town of Patal Bhuvaneshwar.
For those looking for a more authentic experience, homestays are a great option. Homestays offer the opportunity to stay with a local family and experience the city’s culture and hospitality firsthand. Some popular homestays in Champawat include the Kumaon Homestay and the Himalayan Homestay.
Overall, Champawat has a wide range of accommodation options available, including hotels, guest houses, and homestays, which cater to different budgets and preferences.
Hotels in Champawat
Here are a few hotels in Champawat that you might be interested in:
- Kumaon Regency Hotel: This 3-star hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers a range of facilities and amenities, including a restaurant, conference room, and fitness center.
- Hotel Ashok: This budget hotel is located in the nearby town of Patal Bhuvaneshwar and offers basic amenities such as air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a garden.
- Hotel Kailash: This budget hotel is located in the city center and offers basic amenities such as air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a garden.
- Hotel Himalayan Retreat: This 3-star hotel is located in the nearby village of Binsar Mahadev and offers a range of facilities and amenities, including a restaurant, conference room, and fitness center.
- Hotel Kumaon Vatika: This budget hotel is located in the city center and offers basic amenities such as air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a garden.
Overall, Champawat has a range of hotels to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include the Kumaon Regency Hotel, Hotel Ashok, and Hotel Kailash.
Places to visit in Champawat
Pancheshwar Temple
This ancient temple is located in the town of Pancheshwar, on the border between India and Nepal. The temple is an important spiritual center for the local community and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Himalayan mountain range: The Himalayan mountain range is located in close proximity to Champawat and offers a wide range of activities, including trekking, mountaineering, and rock climbing. The range is home to several peaks over 8,000 meters tall and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mayawati Ashram
The ashram, which is also known as the Swarg Ashram, is situated on the banks of the Gomti river and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty.
The ashram was founded by Swami Vivekananda in the late 1800s and has since become a popular destination for spiritual seekers and pilgrims. The ashram is home to a number of temples and shrines, as well as a library, a museum, and a number of guest houses.
Visitors to the ashram can participate in a variety of spiritual and cultural activities, including yoga, meditation, and devotional singing. The ashram also offers a range of facilities and amenities, including a restaurant, a medical center, and a bookstore.
Overall, Mayawati Ashram is a peaceful and serene spiritual retreat that offers a range of spiritual and cultural activities and facilities to visitors.
Mayawati Ashram is a spiritual retreat located in the town of Bageshwar, in the Kumaon division of the state of Uttarakhand, in India. To reach the ashram, there are several options available:
How to reach Mayawati Ashram
- By air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, which is located 160 kilometers away in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Taxis are available from Pantnagar Airport to Mayawati Ashram. Pantnagar is connected to Delhi with four flights per week.
- By train: Mayawati Ashram is situated 60 kilometers from Champawat. Taxis and buses are available from Tanakpur Railway Station to Mayawati Ashram. Tanakpur is well connected to major cities in India, including Lucknow, Delhi, Agra, and Kolkata, and trains are frequent to Tanakpur Railway Station.
- By road: Mayawati Ashram is easily accessible by road and is well connected to major destinations in Uttarakhand and northern India. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar are available to Tanakpur, Lohaghat, and other destinations, from where you can hire a local cab or bus to reach the ashram. Delhi to Mayawati ashram distance is 447.5 km and take 9 hr 31 min via NH9 to reach.
Abott Mount
The hill station is situated at an altitude of 6,470 feet above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests and picturesque views of the Himalayan mountain range.
Abott Mount was founded by John Harold Abott, a British civil servant, in the early 1900s. The hill station is known for its colonial-style cottages and bungalows, which were built in the traditional Kumaoni style of architecture.
Today, Abott Mount is a popular tourist destination and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. Visitors to the hill station can enjoy a range of activities, including birdwatching, nature walks, and picnics. The hill station is also home to a number of temples and shrines, which are popular with pilgrims and spiritual seekers.
Overall, Abott Mount is a small hill station with a rich history and a peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by dense forests and beautiful views of the Himalayan mountain range.
Pancheshwar
Pancheshwar is a town located in the Kumaon division of the state of Uttarakhand, in India. The town is situated on the border between India and Nepal and is known for its ancient temples and spiritual significance.
One of the main attractions in Pancheshwar is the Pancheshwar Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The temple is an important spiritual center for the local community and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
In addition to the Pancheshwar Temple, the town is also home to a number of other ancient temples and shrines, including the Kumaon Temple and the Har ki Dun Temple. These temples are popular with pilgrims and spiritual seekers and are known for their beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Pancheshwar is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a number of hiking and trekking trails in the surrounding area. The town is located in close proximity to the Himalayan mountain range and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Overall, Pancheshwar is a town with a rich spiritual heritage and a number of ancient temples and shrines. The town is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a number of hiking and trekking trails in the surrounding area.
Aditya Temple
Aditya Temple is a beautiful temple located in the town of Ramak, in Champawat district, in the state of Uttarakhand, in India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu sun god and Shiva, and was established by the kings of the Chand dynasty in the 16th century. According to legend, the Pandavas, who were in exile, visited the temple and worshipped Shiva, consecrating a Shivalinga at the site. The temple is one of the few temples in India dedicated to the sun god and is a popular destination for pilgrims and spiritual seekers.
Aditya Temple, also known as Shivaditya Temple, is a popular destination for pilgrims and spiritual seekers due to its association with the Hindu gods Sun and Shiva. The temple has a great religious significance in the area and is visited by many people from different parts of the country. Every year, during the month of August or September, a three-day fair is held at the temple, during which special worship of the sun god is performed. In addition to Aditya Temple, there are two other temples located nearby – the Adi Temple and the Bhumia Temple – which are also known for their beauty and spiritual significance. These temples are situated under large, divine banj oak trees, which adds to their magnificence.
The Aditya Temple is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere, and is a popular destination for pilgrims and spiritual seekers. The temple is surrounded by lush gardens and is a great place to relax and meditate.
To reach Aditya Temple, located in the town of Ramak, there are several options available:
- By air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar, which is located around 150 kilometers away in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Taxis are available from Pantnagar Airport to Aditya Temple.
- By train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, which is around 115 kilometers from Aditya Temple. Taxis and buses are easily available from Kathgodam and Haldwani, which are well connected to major cities in India such as Lucknow, Delhi, and Agra.
- By road: Ramak is easily accessible by road and is well connected to major destinations in Uttarakhand and northern India. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar are available to Haldwani and other nearby destinations, from where local taxis or buses can be hired to reach Aditya Temple. Delhi to Aditya temple distance is 422.6 km via NH9
Gurdwara Reetha Sahib
Gurdwara Reetha Sahib is a Sikh place of worship located in the town of Champawat, in the Kumaon division of the state of Uttarakhand, in India. According to local tradition, Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of the Sikh faith, had an encounter with Nath yogis at the site and tried to encourage them to follow a path of active humanitarian service and remembrance of God’s name. The gurdwara is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture, and is a popular destination for Sikh pilgrims. Visitors to the gurdwara are welcome to participate in daily prayers and rituals and can enjoy a meal in the langar (community kitchen). There is also a soapnut tree at the gurdwara, which is believed to have provided sweet fruit to Guru Nanak Dev and his companion Bhai Mardana. Pilgrims are given prasad (sacred food) in the form of sweet soapnuts at the gurdwara. The soapnuts are collected from a tract of land called Nanak Bagichi (Nanak’s garden), which is located about ten kilometers from the gurdwara.
The gurdwara is named after Reetha Sahib, a Sikh saint who is believed to have stayed at the site during the 19th century.
The gurdwara is an important religious site for the local Sikh community and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Visitors to the gurdwara are welcome to participate in the daily prayers and rituals, and can also enjoy a meal in the langar (community kitchen) which serves free food to all visitors.
Gurdwara Reetha Sahib is an important part of the cultural and spiritual heritage of Champawat and is a popular destination for Sikh pilgrims and tourists. The gurdwara is known for its peaceful atmosphere and welcoming environment and is a great place to learn more about the Sikh faith and culture.
To reach Gurdwara Reetha Sahib, located in the town of Champawat, there are several options available:
- By air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar, which is located around 160 kilometers away in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Taxis are available from Pantnagar Airport to Gurdwara Reetha Sahib.
- By train: Gurdwara Reetha Sahib is situated around 100 kilometers from Champawat. Taxis and buses are easily available from Tanakpur Railway Station to the gurdwara. Tanakpur is well connected to major cities in India such as Lucknow, Delhi, and Agra.
- By road: Gurdwara Reetha Sahib is easily accessible by road and is well connected to major destinations in Uttarakhand and northern India. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar are available to Tanakpur, Lohaghat, and other nearby destinations, from where local taxis or buses can be hired to reach the gurdwara.
Baleshwar Temple
Baleshwar Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Champawat, in the Kumaon division of the state of Uttarakhand, in India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is an important spiritual center for the local community.
It is believed to have been built by the early kings of the Chand dynasty. The temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, was once known for its intricate structural features and a sanctuary with a mandap (a pillared hall used for Hindu rituals). Despite its age, the temple still has beautiful carved ceilings that serve as a testament to its ancient glory and artistic excellence. The temple is an important spiritual center for the local community and is a popular destination for pilgrims and spiritual seekers.
The Baleshwar Temple is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere, and is a popular destination for pilgrims and spiritual seekers. The temple is surrounded by lush gardens and is a great place to relax and meditate.
In addition to the Baleshwar Temple, Champawat is home to a number of other ancient temples and shrines, including the Aditya Temple and the Champawat Tiger Temple. These temples are also popular with pilgrims and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Gwal Devta
Gwal Devta is a Hindu deity worshipped in the Kumaon region of the state of Uttarakhand, in India. The deity is believed to be an incarnation of the god Shiva and is revered for his powers of protection and justice.
Gwal Devta is considered the guardian deity of the Kumaon region and is believed to protect the local community from natural disasters and other forms of harm. In addition to his role as a protector, Gwal Devta is also revered for his ability to dispense justice and is believed to be able to resolve disputes and conflicts.
Goril was a prince of Champawat who was known for his fairness and sense of justice. According to legend, he was the victim of a conspiracy hatched by his stepmother, who drowned him in a river inside an iron cage. In honor of his reputation as a symbol of justice, a temple was dedicated to him at Gwarail Chaur in Champawat. Goril has since become a highly influential deity and attracts many pilgrims to the temple. The story of Harish Chandra, a famous king of Champawat who was worshipped as the folk god “Haru” after his death, is also associated with Gwal Devta. Haru’s mother was named Kainer and he is believed to be the maternal uncle of Gwal Devta.
In the Kumaon region, Gwal Devta is worshipped in the form of a stone idol, which is placed in a temple dedicated to the deity. The temple is an important place of worship for the local community and is visited by many devotees who seek the blessings and protection of the deity.
Overall, Gwal Devta is an important deity in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and is revered for his powers of protection and justice. The deity is worshipped in the form of a stone idol at a temple dedicated to him, which is an important place of worship for the local community.
Purnagiri
Purnagiri Temple is a Hindu temple located in the village of Purnagiri, in the Champawat district of the state of Uttarakhand, in India. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Parvati and is an important spiritual center for the local community.
The surrounding valleys echo with the sound of chanting devotees climbing up to the temple for darshan, creating a spiritual atmosphere.
Purnagiri Temple is situated at an altitude of about 3,000 meters and is surrounded by beautiful natural surroundings. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is a popular destination for pilgrims who seek the blessings of the goddess Parvati.
In addition to the Purnagiri Temple, the village of Purnagiri is home to a number of other temples and shrines, including the Temple of Purnagiri Temple and the Temple of Gokarneswara. These temples are also popular with pilgrims and offer a glimpse into the village’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Overall, Purnagiri Temple is an important spiritual center and a popular destination for pilgrims seeking the blessings of the goddess Parvati. The temple is located in a beautiful natural setting and is known for its peaceful atmosphere.
How to reach Purnagiri
By Air The nearest airport to Purnagiri is Pantnagar Airport situated 160kms away in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand state. Taxis are available from Pantnagar Airport to Purnagiri . Pantnagar is connected to Delhi with four round flight in a week.
By Train Purnagiri is situated at a distance of 60 kms from Champawat. Taxis and buses are easily available from Tanakpur Railway Station to Purnagiri . Tanakpur is well connected with major destinations of India like Lucknow, Delhi, Agra. Trains are frequent to Tanakpur Railway Station and Purnagiri is well connected by motorable roads with Tanakpur.
By Road Purnagiri is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand state and northern India. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar are available to Tanakpur, Lohaghat and many other destinations from where you can easily hire a local cab or bus to reach. Delhi to purnagiri distance is around 361.5 km at take 6 hr 59 min via NH9.
Lohaghat
Lohaghat is a town in the Champawat district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is located at the confluence of the Lohawati and Saryu rivers and is known for its scenic beauty and several historical and religious sites. Some of the popular attractions in Lohaghat include the Purnagiri Temple, Baleshwar Temple, and Gwal Devta Temple. The town is also home to the Lohaghat War Memorial, which was built in honor of the soldiers who fought in the India-China war of 1962. Lohaghat is well connected by road and rail, and it is located about 100 km from the nearest airport at Pantnagar.
How to Reach Champawat
To reach Champawat, a town located in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand, India, there are several options available:
- By air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar, which is situated around 160 kilometers away in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Taxis are available from Pantnagar Airport to Champawat.
- By train: Champawat is located around 2 kilometers from the Tanakpur Railway Station. Trains from major cities in India such as Lucknow, Delhi, and Agra run frequently to Tanakpur, and Champawat is well connected by motorable roads with the station. Taxis and buses are easily available from Tanakpur to Champawat.
- By road: Champawat is easily accessible by road and is well connected to major destinations in Uttarakhand and northern India. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar are available to Champawat and other nearby destinations, from where local taxis or buses can be hired to reach the town.
