Baleswar Temple

Overview

The Baleswar temple located in the Champaawat district of Uttaraakhand is an ancient temple dedicated to the Hindu God Lord Shiva. Devotees from all part of the country visit this temple and seek blessing of Lord Shiva. The main Baleswar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva (who is also known as Baleswar). There are two other temples in the compound of Baleswar, one dedicated to Sri Ratneshwar and other to goddess Champaawati Durga. Close to the Baleswar Temple is a freshwater resource. On the day of Maha-shivratri, a very crowded fair is held in the Baleswar Temple compound.

About the Temple

Stone carving is the main attraction of the temples in Champaawat region including Baleswar Temple. The architecture of the temple is in South Indian style. Wooden carvings depicting images of gods are also some of the remarkable architectural marvels in this temple. It is believed that the temple was originally constructed with a mandap (hall) and a sanctuary and had some minute carvings. The carvings are still visible on the ceiling, but the mandap (hall) has been destroyed. These available remains speak about the artistic skill and glory of the Chandh Dynasty.

About The Deity

The exteriors of Sri Ratneshwar and goddess Champaawati Durga temples are carved with the different posters of the local deities

Legend and Stories

History

There are no written evidences or manuscript to exactly forecast the dates of construction of the temple. But it is believed to be constructed between tenth and twelfth century AD by the Chandh rulers. They are believed to be from the Rajputh clan and ruled over the Kumaon region. Apart from the main temple, there are also two other temples dedicated to Champaawati Durga and Ratneshwar in the temple campus. This temple is one of the National Heritage Monuments as listed by Indian Government. It is being maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from the year 1952.

Legend

The popular legend says that Lord Vishnu appeared in Kurma Avatar in Champaawat, which has earned the place the popular name of Kurmaanchal. The whole of Uttaraakhand is popularly called the ‘Devabhoomi’ or abode of Gods. Being the land of Gods, Champaawat is popular for the temples of Hindu Gods and the local deities.

Festivals

Maha Shiva-rathri is the main festival of the temple. An excellent fair with facilities of entertainment, eateries and local handicraft sales are available. The traditional folklore and dance are the main attractions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the temple is during the Maha Shivarathri festival or any period other than the monsoon.

Nearby Place to Visit

Naagnath Temple
Pancheswar Temple
Ranteswar Mahadev Temple
Ek Hathiya Ka Naula
Mayawathi Ashram

Accessibility

Airport

Pant Nagar is the nearest airport located at 160 km from Champaawat.

Railways

The nearest railway station to Champaawat is Tanakpur located at a distance of 60 km.

Road

Frequent buses are also available between Delhi and Champaawat. Several tour operators run private luxury buses from Champaawat to important destinations.

Temple Address

Baleswar Temple
NH125,
Champaawat,
Uttaraakhand
Pin code - 262523