One of India’s most serene and holy regions in Uttarakhand. It draws people to it like a magnet because of its inherent brilliance and beauty. This is a sacred location with a vibrant culture presents practically everywhere in the state. This state is well-known for its temples, artwork, buildings, and numerous shrines. There are several Gods and Goddesses who live in this state. They reside here and give the location a unique quality. The name DEV BHOOMI, which means “THE LAND OF THE LORDS,” is used to refer to this location. Visitors from all around the world frequent this location all year long. They travel here to worship the gods, see picturesque locations, learn about the local history, and visit the temples.
In the Uttarakhand city of Champawat, 76 kilometers away from Pithoragarh, is where the Baleswar Temple may be found. The temple is situated in the Kumaon region of the lower Himalayan highlands at a height of 1610 meters above sea level. The most artistic building there is the Baleshwar temple. The emperors of the Chand dynasty constructed it. The Lord Shiva-honouring Baleshwar Temple is a magnificent example of stone craftsmanship. Although there are no historical documents indicating when the Mahabaleshwar Temple was built, it was thought to have been done so during the 10th and 12th centuries A.D.
Lord Shiva, also known as Baleshwar, is the subject of the major Baleshwar temple. In addition to these two temples, the grounds of Baleshwar also contain two more temples: one is devoted to Ratneshwar, and the other to Champawati Durga. The temple features stunning stone carvings and is a fine example of South Indian architecture. A “Naula” (freshwater source) that was close to the Baleshwar Temple has since dried up. Mahashivratri brings a fair to the shrine’s history of the temple. As the city of Champawat has grown, numerous residential structures have been constructed in close proximity to the Baleshwar Temple, endangering this piece of national heritage. The impulse to return to them is uncontrollable in that they have an effect on people’s psyche that defies all scientific reason. Aside from this, these temples hold a lot of appeal for a casual traveler due to their distinctive designs, surroundings, and other qualities. The Baleshwar temple is a blatant indicator of the area’s rich architectural heritage and historic splendor.
HISTORY:
The Himalayan tribal people were said to have prayed to Lord Shiva for avalanche protection in the mountain valleys, according to ancient accounts. Additionally, according to Hinduism, Lord Shiva meditated all across the Himalayas, which were considered to be his abode. To commemorate him in his earthly abode from heaven, this shrine to Baleshwar is also created with great significance. These were transformed into well-known pilgrimage sites during the Middle Ages.
Due to its proximity to the Himalayas, the entire Kumaon region has been linked to a wide variety of gods and goddesses through custom and folklore. Due to the Champawat district’s acquisition of the unique distinction of being the holy land of gods, temples of a very wide variety dedicated to various gods, including local deities and demons with limited significance, are dispersed over the entire area. These temples either include architectural qualities that would be of significant interest to a scholar or sustain faith by establishing local, related, and fantasy design formations.
ARCHITECTURE:
The Chand dynasty, which dominated the Kumaon region from the 10th to the 12th century A.D., constructed the Baleshwar temple. This temple’s architecture is highly regarded because no other temple in the mountain region has as many stone carvings. This Baleshwar temple is constructed in the style of Hindu temples prevalent in southern India. Granite, available in distinctively carved Hindu motifs, is used to build this temple. The stones that were used to construct this temple are intricately carved. There aren’t many inscriptions on the stones either. Additionally, three temples are located on the same property.
The Champawat District of Uttarakhand, India is home to the historic Baleshwar Temple, a shrine to Lord Shiva. Within the Baleshwar Dham, there are two additional infamous tabernacles, one to the goddess Champawati Durga and the other to the Lord Ratneshwar. The Chand dynasty built the Baleshwar Temple, which is a magnificent representation of the tombstone figure. The Baleshwar Temple of Champawat has been designated an Indian National Heritage Monument and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India since 1952. It is believed that the temple was built between the tenth and twentieth centuries. The armature is an example of South Indian gravestone sculpting work. Jubilee celebrations during Maha Shivratri were primarily held in temples. It is a Baleshwar Temple in Champawat.
The Chand dynasty emperors constructed the Baleshwar Temple. This temple is a wonderful illustration of stone craftsmanship. There is no evidence to indicate when the Baleshwar temple was constructed. But the eleventh and the twelfth centuries AD are when it is thought to have been constructed.
WHAT IS BALESHWAR TEMPLE FAMOUS FOR?
The Baleshwar Temple, which was constructed by the Chand dynasty’s kings, is a magnificent example of stone carving. Garud Gyan Chand is thought to have erected it in the 13th century (around 1390 AD). Between 1420 and 1421 AD, Uday Chand began work on this temple’s renovation.
The main draw of this temple is its exquisite figures of gods and goddesses that have been carved out of its walls.
- It is well-known for its temples and structures.
- Its culture and place of pilgrimage are well-known.
- It is renowned for its architecture and is regarded as part of India’s national heritage.
- It is well known for its festival, religious significance, and a host of other things.
- The lush green forests and the natural scenery of this place make it an ideal holiday destination amidst nature.
Best time to visit Baleshwar temple
The greatest time to visit Baleshwar Temple is between the months of October and May, while the travel there can be made at any time of the year. The greatest and most fun time to travel here is during these months. The weather around here is chilly in the winter. The surrounding hells receive snowfall in the winter, which significantly lowers the temperature in this area. It is a little challenging to go out from here during the rainy season due to strong rainfall that poses a landslide threat.
How to reach?
- By Road: Baleshwar Temple is located at a distance of about 450 meters from Champawat. Champawat is reachable by road, however, the trip there is somewhat tiresome and is not highly advised. Champawat City is located about 455 kilometers from Delhi. The shortest route to Champawat is from Haldwani, which is 294 kilometers away, then to Bhowali, which is 29 kilometers away, and then from Bhowali to Champawat, which is 132 kilometers away. It can be challenging to travel by road due to the terrain. It is advantageous if you arrive by plane or train. If you choose to travel by road, be prepared for a bumpy ride.
- By flight: The nearest airport is Pantnagar, which is located about 160km from Champawat.
By Rail: Sam Park Kranti, which is located in Kathgodam, is the closest railway station, located 58 kilometers from Champawat.
Festivals and events in Champawat:
Champawat’s main celebrations include:
- Devidhura Fair: On the day of Rakshabandhan, the stone-throwing celebration known as Devidhura Fair is observed. It is observed in the Varahidevi temple and symbolizes the goddess Varahi’s numerous forms of adoration. While defending themselves with the wooden shield, two groups of people who are dancing and singing throw stones at one another. Once a priest arrives and both parties make friends, the incident ends.
- Purnagiri Fair: During Navratras, the fair is held at Purnagiri, 20 kilometers from Tanakpur, on a hilltop next to the Kali River. The region’s adoration of the goddess Purnagiri is commemorated by this 40-day celebration.
Best hotels near Baleshwar Temple, Champawat with all facilities:
- Hotel Seahawk
- Hotel Cedar Valley
- Hotel Ganpati
- Hotel Akashdeep
- Tiwari Hotel & Restaurant
- Hotel Shiva residency
Attractions near Baleshwar Temple:
- Champawat
- Advaita ashram, Mayavati
- Lohaghat
- Abbott Mount
- Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple
- Dandheshwar Temple
- Jageshwar Dham Temple
- Mukteshwar Temple
- Chauli ki Jali
- Chitai Golu Devta Temple
- Naukuchia Taal
- Nanak Matta
- Bhimtal Lake
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Ghorakal
- Bhowali
- Chaukori
Travel tips:
- Dress conservatively. All Hindus have a great deal of veneration for this journey. Therefore, be careful not to upset anyone as this location holds great significance for its visitors.
- Avoid traveling during the monsoon. If you are familiar with the area, you are aware of how severe and difficult the rains can be. the best avoided. It is preferable to travel during the beginning of the season or after the monsoon.
- In case you become lightheaded, carry some medications and a first aid kit. Show respect for the environment and abstain from any actions that can offend the pilgrims. This includes consuming alcohol, smoking, and non-vegetarian cuisine.
- Taking photos within the temple is not allowed.
Entry fees:
There is no admission charge required to visit the temple. However, the Shri-Kshetra Mahabaleshwar Devasthan Trust, the organization that manages the temple, welcomes gifts from devotees for use in development in exchange for which a valid receipt is given. Although there is no camera fee, it is not permitted to take pictures of the Linga or the inside of the temple. Days and hours of operation: The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It is accessible every day.
Location of Baleshwar Temple:
Champawat is home to the Baleshwar temple. This temple is located on NH 125 in the heart of Champawat. It is situated next to PNB on the district hospital road
Distance/Travel time: 0.5Km, from the district court, District headquarter road, Champawat.
