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If you are somewhat like me, who seeks the solace of mountains and whose interests lie in legends & romanticism of nature, Champawat in Uttarakhand is where you should be. Located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Champawat is the perfect offbeat hill town waiting to be discovered with ancient temples, dense forests, and breathtaking views.
Champawat caters to nature lovers, spiritual seekers, historians, etc. The best part is that it’s still away from the tourist crowd, so you are going to enjoy the serene setting in quietness.
Here’s a complete Champawat guide for you.
Where Is Champawat Located?
Champawat lies in eastern Uttarakhand, around 76 km from Pithoragarh and about 160 km from Nainital. At an altitude of around 1,615 meters, it offers a pleasantly cool climate almost all year round.
For a detailed personal account of my journey, check out my full trekking experience in Dzukou Valley—from misty trails to camping under the stars.
Why You Should Visit Champawat
Here’s what won me over about Champawat – and why you may fall for it too.
- RICH MYTHOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Champawat is said to be the place where Lord Vishnu appeared in his Kurma (tortoise) avatar.
- MATCHLESS BEAUTY OF NATURE: From forested hills to misty valleys and rivers like the Lohawati, you will be enchanted.
- TEMPLES OF THE ANCIENT ERA: Famous for the Baleshwar Temple here, the temple was constructed by the Chand rulers in the 10th century.
- LESS CROWDED: A peaceful perch far removed from Nainital or Mussoorie.
Top Attractions in Champawat
These are the must-visit places that I explored, and I highly recommend making Binsar a part of your solo journey:
Baleshwar Temple
- architecture from 10th century dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Carvings and sculptures which give tough competition to Khajuraho
- Best For meditation in peaceful environment
Kranteshwar Mahadev Temple
- On top of a hill with a breathtaking 360 ° view.
- Trekking paradise
- Sunrise? You’ll cherish it!
Ek Hathiya Ka Naula
- ancient water tank carved by one armed artisan, as the local myth goes
- In the deep forest is this raw, mysterious and serene tribute to someone
Abbott Mount
- Colonial era hill town with pretty cottages
- Find daycation pleasure in birdwatching or photography
Pancheshwar
- Where Kali and Saryu River meet
- Great spot for angling and riverside camping
Things to Do in Champawat
I wasn’t expecting so many activities in this nice town.
Not-to-Miss Activities for the Trip:
- Nature Walks through rhododendron and pine forests
- Photography of Snow covered Himalayas, temples, village life in past
- Star sighting on clear nights (best in winter months)
- Meditation and Yoga at very quite spots in monasteries
- Local Markets: to pick honey, woolens and you can do even your handicrafts shopping
Best Time to Visit
Depending on what you want:
- March to June: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing
- September to November: Best views of the Himalayas
- December to February: Cold, possible snowfall, fewer tourists
Pro Tip: Avoid the monsoon (July-August) due to landslide-prone roads.
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar (170 km)
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Tanakpur (75 km)
- By Road: Well-connected via buses and taxis from Haldwani, Almora, and Pithoragarh
Where to Stay in Champawat
Accommodation options are growing but still limited. I suggest:
- GMVN Tourist Rest House
- Homestays with local families—great food and cultural immersion
- Small hotels and lodges near Baleshwar Temple or market area
Local Food to Try
You can’t visit Uttarakhand without indulging in:
- Aloo Ke Gutke
- Mandua (ragi) roti
- Bhatt Ki Churkani
- Local lentil soups with ghee rice
- And don’t skip the herbal teas and rhododendron juice!
FAQs About Champawat
1. Is Champawat safe for solo travelers?
Yes, I traveled solo and felt very safe. The locals are welcoming and helpful.
2. How many days are enough to explore Champawat?
2 to 3 days are perfect to soak in the major sights and relax.
3. Are there ATMs and mobile network coverage?
Yes, but limited. Carry some cash, and BSNL/Jio works best here.
4. Is Champawat suitable for families and kids?
Absolutely! Clean air, gentle treks, and spiritual spots make it ideal for all ages.
Conclusion
In a world that chases viral destinations, Champawat stays pristine and unspoiled. That place where the air smells of pine, the temples recite stories, and every sunrise is a blessing. These are not just trips; they are soulful journeys.
If you want to escape the human crowd, feel the old India, and touch nature, it’s time for Champawat.
Are You Ready to Explore Champawat?
🧳 Just go through this travel guide to get the best insights, bookmark it, pack your bags, and take a dive into a trip that will make you feel fresh and leave you full of ideas.
👉Remember to share the blog with other travelers! If you have visited Champawat earlier. Do share your experiences.
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