Champawat District Overview :

Champawat District is a rural district in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand. Being a newly formed and remote district no important Research Institution is situated in Champawat District. Only a Krishi Vigyan Kendra of Pantnagar Agricultural University exists at Lohaghat. Champawat District of Uttarakhand was constituted in the year 1997. Champawat town is the district administrative headquarters, which is 76 kms from Pithoragarh headquarters, Champawat is situated 1615 meters above sea level. The long chain of mountain in southwestern region acts as a border between Champawat District and Nainital District. It is important from the defense point of view as the east Kali river acts as the international border between Nepal and India. 

Location :

Champawat District is situated between 29 degree 5 minutes and 29 degree 30 minutes in northern latitude and 79 degree 59 minutes and 80 degree 3 minutes at the center of eastern longitude. Ram Ganga River acts as a border between Champawat and Pithoragarh in north while Jabgura and Pannar rivers in south and west act as a border between Champawat District, Udham Singh Nagar District and Almora District simultaneously. 

History :

Champawat District owes its name to King Arjun Deo's daughter Champawati. As per historical records, initially Champawat District formed a part of Almora District. Further, in the year 1972, Champawat Tehsil was transferred to Pithoragarh. Champawat District was declared an independent district of Uttarakhand on 15th September, 1997. 

Geography :

The geographical coverage of Champawat District is about 1613 sq km. It includes two Tehsils and four development blocks and 691 revenue villages. Champawat District is rich with natural perennial rivers and rivulets. Because of Lohawati River, Jagbura River, Ramganga River, Kali River and other rivers the region never felt the scarcity of water, but due to uneven geographical condition the major portion of water drains off through small rivers and rivulets. Only about 9 percent of the total land is termed as agricultural irrigated land of the region. The major portion of land is dependent on the rain water only, which has adverse effect on agricultural production. 

Demography :

According to the Population Census in the year 2011, Champawat district has a population of 259,648. Champawat District has a population density of 147 inhabitants per square kilometer. 

Economy :

In Champawat District 65 percent of the area is under forest and net sown area is less than 10 percent. Only about 9 percent of the sown area is irrigated and agriculture is manly rain fed. Consequently, it is at a subsistence level and only traditional crops are grown. Around 82 percent of workers are engaged in agriculture and there are negligible workers in household or non household industries. Thus, economy of Champawat District is based on agriculture and to some extent on minor forest produce and vegetable production. 

Lack of agricultural land and resources has always been a reason for the poor economic status of the rural areas of the district. The agricultural production is less as compared to the effort put in. The economic condition of Champawat and Lohaghat is comparatively better due to seasonal production of fruits.Champawat District is characterized by money order economy as a large number of males are working outside in big cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, etc. either in the armed forces or other jobs since there are very less employment opportunities in the district. Champawat District is economically and socially backward with acute poverty and society ridden with outmoded traditions and even superstitions. 

Tourism :

Tourism in Champawat District will include visits to several places of religious as well as historical interest. Champawat District is mainly known for its scenic beauty and this aspect enhances the charm of travelling. There are few ancient forts that offer the visitors a glimpse of the rich history associated with the district. Some of the major tourist attractions of Champawat District are as follows :

Pilgrimage Tourism :

Reetha Sahib:  Guru Nanak is said to have visited this place and have had spiritual discussions with Gorakhpanthi Jogis. The Gurudwara was constructed in 1960 at the confluence of Lodhiya and Ratiya rivers, near village Deyuri. A fair is held at the Gurudwara on Baisakhi Purnima. 

Devidhura: At distance of 45 kms from Lohaghat, Devidhura is famous for its Barahi temples. A very unusual fair, which attracts people from distant places, is held every year at the temple of Barahi Devi on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. During this festival, known as Bagwal, two groups of dancing and singing people throw stones at each other, while they try to protect themselves with the help of large wooden shields. The famous hunter, Jim Corbett's tale 'Temple Tiger' is associated with the Devidhura temples. Devidhura is situated amidst tall deodar and oak trees surrounded by beautiful native flora and fauna. This is a wonderful place for trekking. 

Purnagiri Temple: Purnagiri temple is visited throughout the year by large number of devotees from all parts of the country, particularly during Chaitra Navratri in the month of March and April. The surrounding valleys echo with the holy chants of the devotees climbing up to the top for darshan, creating an atmosphere of spirituality. From Purnagiri, also known as Punyagiri, Kali River descends into the plains and is known as Sharda. 

Mayawati Ashram: Mayawati shot into prominence after the establishment of Advait Ashram here. The ashram attracts followers across the country as well as abroad. Amid an old tea Estate, is the Advait Ashram of Mayawati. During his third visit to Almora in 1898, Swami Vivekananda decided to shift the publication office of 'Prabuddh Bharat' to Mayawati. The only presence that has become a part of the peace and solitude of Mayawati is that of the mighty Himalaya in its entire splendor. There is also a library and a small museum at Mayawati. 

Pancheshwar: 40 kms from Lohaghat at the confluence of river Kali and Saryu, Pancheshwar is famous for the temple of Chaumu, its fair and a dip at the confluence is considered to be very sacred. The temple at Pancheshwar is devoted to Lord Shiva. 

Leisure Tourism :

Vanasur Ka Kila: The names of Shonitpur and Lohawati are linked with the myth about the assassination of Vanasur at this place. The fort seems to be a construction belonging to the middle ages, but the story of Vanasur was probably associated with the spot even before the construction of the fort. Lohawati River originates near this place. 

Nature Tourism :

Lohaghat: Lohaghat, which is situated on the bank of river Lohawati, is a centre of historical and mythological importance. Further, in summer season, Lohaghat is full of Burans flowers, which are worth seeing. 

Shyamlatal: Swami Vivekananda Ashram is located here at the bank of the lake. The blue coloured lake of Shyamlatal is spread over an area of about one and a half sq km. This place has some ruins dating back to the days of the early Chand rulers and others which were associated with the Pandavas. Shyamlatal is also famous for its Jhula fair. Different varieties of roses also attract the travellers here. 

Mount Abbot: Abbot Mount is situated amidst a thick forest of oak and deodar and is one of the main tourist attractions of Champawat District. From Abbot Mount one gets a breathtaking view of the Himalayan peaks. 

These are some of the main attractions of Champawat District that are worth exploring. With these tourist interest places and amazing scenic beauty, Champawat District holds a prominent position in the tourist map of the country.