Hidden in the serene folds of the Kumaon region, Champawat is one of Uttarakhand’s best-kept secrets. While most tourists flock to Nainital, Mussoorie, or Rishikesh, Champawat district silently sits with its ancient temples, mythological importance, colonial charm, and offbeat natural beauty 🌿.
If you’re searching for peaceful hill stations in Uttarakhand, fewer crowds, and a soul-touching experience, then this guide to the best tourist places in Champawat is made just for you!
📍 Where is Champawat Located?
Champawat is located in the eastern part of Uttarakhand, near the Indo-Nepal border. It lies at an elevation of 1,615 meters above sea level and is part of the Kumaon division.
🏕️ Why Should You Visit Champawat?
Still on the fence about visiting this underrated gem? Here’s why you must:
✅ Less commercialized than other hill stations
✅ Rich in mythology and history
✅ Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and spiritual seekers
✅ Close to Nepal border, making it an Indo-Nepal fusion of culture
✅ A hub of ancient temples and unexplored spots
🌦️ Best Time to Visit Champawat
| Season | Description |
| Summer ☀️ | March to June – Ideal weather for sightseeing |
| Monsoon 🌧️ | July to September – Lush greenery but landslides possible |
| Winter ❄️ | November to February – Cold and snow-kissed |
Pro Tip: Visit in April or October for perfect weather and fewer crowds.
🚗 How to Reach Champawat
- ✈️ By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (170 km)
- 🚆 By Train: Tanakpur Railway Station is 75 km away
- 🛣️ By Road: Well connected to Haldwani, Almora, and Pithoragarh via buses and taxis
🛕 Top Tourist Places in Champawat
Let’s deep-dive into the heart of Champawat tourist attractions:
🛕 1. Baleshwar Temple – The Spiritual Heart
An ancient marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva, Baleshwar Temple was built by the Chand Dynasty in the 12th century. The temple complex also houses temples for Ratneshwar and Champawati Durga.
📌 Must-see: Intricate stone carvings that depict ancient legends
📸 Pro Tip: Visit during Shivratri to witness local religious fervor
🐍 2. Nagnath Temple – The Snake God Shrine
A beautiful piece of Katyuri architecture, Nagnath Temple is another dedication to Lord Shiva in his Naga form. Locals believe it guards the region spiritually.
✨ Highlights:
- Rich mythology
- Intricate stonework
- Devotees from Kumaon and Nepal flock here during Mahashivratri
🌄 3. Abbott Mount – Colonial Vibes in the Himalayas
Imagine an old-world English hamlet in the hills. That’s Abbott Mount for you.
🏡 Built by John Harold Abbott in the early 20th century, it has:
- Colonial bungalows
- Views of snow-clad Himalayas
- Peaceful ambiance ideal for writers and couples
Bonus: The nearby Abbott Mount Church is an architectural delight!
🧘 4. Mayawati Ashram – A Spiritual Retreat
Founded by Swami Vivekananda, the Advaita Ashrama in Mayawati is just 9 km from Lohaghat.
🌿 Ideal for:
- Meditation
- Self-discovery
- Spiritual learning
📚 Don’t miss the ashram’s library and spiritual museum.
🗿 5. Ek Hathiya Ka Naula – The One-Armed Wonder
Yes, that’s what it’s called! Legend says this architectural wonder was crafted overnight by a one-handed artisan.
🔍 A historical stepwell with mysterious carvings, it’s perfect for history buffs and photographers alike.
🔱 6. Kranteshwar Mahadev Temple – The Panoramic Shiva Spot
Located on a hilltop, this temple offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
🛤️ You’ll love the short trek through pine forests.
🕉️ A divine energy surrounds this shrine, making it an unforgettable spiritual experience.
🏞️ 7. Lohaghat – The Hidden Gem of Kumaon
Lohaghat is a small town by the Lohawati River, surrounded by pine and oak forests.
🌲 Perfect for:
- Long walks
- Scenic photography
- Exploring local markets
Nearby attractions include Pancheshwar Dham and Advaita Ashram.
🙏 8. Pancheshwar Mahadev Temple – Sacred Sangam
Located at the confluence of Kali and Saryu rivers, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva (in the form of Chaumu).
🏕️ Activities nearby:
- Fishing and angling
- Picnics near the riverside
- Witnessing Indo-Nepal culture blend
🏯 9. Champawat Fort – Whispering Walls of the Past
Now mostly in ruins, the Champawat Fort still echoes the grandeur of the Chand rulers.
🗺️ Walk around the complex to spot:
- Stone sculptures
- Old palace foundations
- Hidden doors and tunnels
📸 Don’t forget to bring a camera — the backdrop is amazing!
🧭 Offbeat Places Near Champawat
🎉 Devidhura – Land of the Bagwal Festival
This village hosts the Barahi Temple, famous for the unique Bagwal Festival where locals throw stones at each other as a ritual offering!
Don’t worry — there are shields and a festive spirit! 😅
It’s a cultural experience you’ll never forget.
🥘 Local Cuisine in Champawat
Kumaoni food is simple, healthy, and flavorful.
Must-try dishes:
- Aloo Ke Gutke – Spicy fried potatoes 🥔
- Bhang Ki Chutney – Made from hemp seeds 🌿
- Chainsoo – Protein-rich lentil curry
- Madua Roti – Finger millet bread with ghee
Don’t miss local sweets like Bal Mithai and Singori! 🍬
🛏️ Where to Stay in Champawat
- KMVN Rest Houses (Budget, government-owned)
- Local Guest Houses (Affordable and homely)
- Forest Rest Houses near Abbott Mount (Peaceful stay in nature)
Make sure to book early during festivals or summer season.
🧳 Travel Tips for Champawat
🎒 Carry light woolens even in summer (it gets chilly at night)
📱 Internet and mobile network may be weak in remote areas
💧 Carry refillable bottles and stay hydrated
📷 Don’t forget a power bank, camera, and binoculars
🌱 Respect nature — carry back your plastic and avoid littering
❤️ Why Champawat Deserves Your Visit
Champawat is not just a town; it’s a living museum of mythologies, untouched nature, and soulful spirituality. Unlike the over-explored tourist spots of Uttarakhand, Champawat is where the real magic of the mountains unfolds.
If you’ve ever wanted to walk through legends, meditate in silence, and wake up to Himalayan sunrises without touristy noise — then this is the place for you. 💖
❓ FAQs – Champawat Tourist Places
1. Is Champawat safe for tourists?
Yes, Champawat is a very safe and peaceful destination, even for solo or female travelers.
2. How many days are enough to explore Champawat?
A 2–3 day itinerary is perfect to cover major temples, Abbott Mount, Lohaghat, and nearby spots.
3. What are the top temples in Champawat?
The must-visit temples include:
- Baleshwar Temple
- Nagnath Temple
- Kranteshwar Mahadev
- Pancheshwar Mahadev
4. Can I visit Champawat in winter?
Yes, but it can be very cold, and some routes might face snow or fog delays. However, it’s magical for snow lovers!
5. Is Champawat a good place for a family trip?
Absolutely! It’s peaceful, clean, and full of cultural and natural wonders, making it ideal for families.