Champawat - Kurmavtar OR the turtle incarnation of Lord Vishnu OR its temples and natural beauty

The former capital of the rulers of the dynasty of Chand, Champawat, may be lesser known; it still is a nice tourist place to visit, especially when one is looking for something ‘different’. It is a region of historical significance and renowned for several attractions with natural splendor, lovely temples, superb temple carvings and architecture being just few of them. The tourist place of Champawat, which draws its name from Champawati, gives the discerning visitors almost everything -- from lovely climate to a rich & varied wildlife, from religious & spiritual hotspots to superb trekking spots.

This historical destination located 76 kms from Pithoragarh also boasts of an ancient fort, which is now the headquarters of the Tehsil office. Legend suggests that it was in Champawat that the God Vishnu assumed his Kurma incarnation. The story of Golla Devta is also linked to Gorilla Chaur of Champawat. Besides, Jim Corbett -- the world renowned hunter and wildlife expert – had visited this region sometime in the first decade of the 20th century to hunt and kill man eating tigers. His first book, "Man Eaters of Kumaon" involves Champawat.

Places to visit in Champawat

Adventure sports, beautiful trekking trails, hidden ancient temples and unique flora and fauna are some of the leading attractions of the wonderful tourist destination of Champawat.

Baleshwar Temple: Dedicated to the God Shiva, the Baleshwar Temple was built by the erstwhile Chand rulers. The temple in question is an example of excellent stone carving work. The Baleshwar Temple was built somewhere between 10 and 12 century A.D.

Nagnath Temple: It is yet another excellent example of the ancient architecture of the Kumaon region.

Ek Hathiya Ka Naula: Believed to have been constructed in just one night by a one handed artisan, Ek Hathiya Ka Naula is located just 5 kms away from Champawat, and is yet another famed tourist hotspot of the region.

Kranteshwar Mahadev: Also known as Kurmapad or Kande, the holy place is situated atop a hill, to the east of Champawat and much attracts the spiritually inclined visitors who throng the place in large numbers.

Lohaghat: Much famous for its superb natural beauty and mythological legends, this historical town is situated 14 kms away from Champawat, on the banks of Lohawati River. Another USP of the place is the blooming 'Burans' flowers during the months of the summers.

The tourist place of Champawat is well connected by road with the other places of Kumaon. Several hotels and other resting places – suiting all budgets -- are available at Champawat.