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THE LAND OF KURMAVTAR
Situated 1,615 m above sea level, Champawat was originally the capital of
Chand Raja of Kumaon. Located 76 kms. from Pithoragarh,
it was at Champawat that lord Vishnu is said to have incarnated as
Kurmavatar, hence Kumaon came to be known as Kurmanchal.
A
small fort and the temples of Baleshwar, Champadari, Ratneshwar and Durga
adorn the city. Champawat is famous not only from historical and
archaeological point of view but also for its abundant scenic beauty and
marvellous sculptures.
The places worth seeing near Champawat are Narsinh Danda, Hingla Devi,
Hidimba -Ghatotkach Temple, Maneshwar, Karanteshwar & temple of Surya
at village Ramak.
Temples
Baleshwar Temple:
The group of temples dedicated to Baleshwar, Ratneshwar and Champawati
Durga, built by the early Chand rulers, stand with intricate structural
carvings that enthrall the visitors. The carvings and paintings on the
ceilings of these temples are evidence of the ancient glory and artistic
excellence of the era.
Nagnath Temple:
This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva was devastated by Rohilla
and Gorkha invaders, in the 18th century. A huge carved doorway and a
double-storeyed wooden structure remain now. The Nagnath temple is an
excellent example of traditional Kumaoni temple architecture.
Punyagiri Temple: (55 kms.)
It is one of the most famous temples of Kumaon. Thousands of pilgrims
visit the shrine during the period of April to June. A distance of 6 kms,
has to be trekked.
Mayawati Ashram: (23 kms.)
Headquarters of Adwait Ashram, it was sanctified by Swami Vivekanand and
is also known for its charming surroundings.
Devidhura: (45 kms)
Situated at a height of 1615 m, Devi Dhura is well known for the temple
of Barahi Devi. A fair is held here annually on “Raksha Bandhan”.
Abbot Mount:
Situated amongst thick forests of oak and deodar, Abbot Mount is one of
Kumaon’s idyllic hill resort for peaceful secluded holidays.
Air: Nearest airport is Pithoragarh,
80 kms.
Rail: Nearest railhead is Tanakpur 89 kms.
Road: Well connected to Nainital,
Haldwani & Tanakpur. Local Transport: Jeeps, Taxis, Ponies, Dandi.
Accommodation options are available at Kurmanchal Tourist Hotel. Kamal Hotel. Chand Tourist Rest House (KMVN)
Banks: State Bank of India.
Post & Telegraph: Head Post Office, Champavat.
Tourist Information Centre: Tourist Office, Pithoragarh.
Pithoragarh: 76-km
Devidhura: 45-km
Tanakpur: 89-km
Area: 5 sq. km.
Population: 1702 (1991 census).
Altitude: 1,615m above sea level.
Clothing: Summer:Light Woollens.
Winter: Heavy Woollens.