• Shiva

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

Significance

Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-

  • Salvation
  • Wealth
  • Relief from diseases
  • Purchase of vehicles
  • Gain Knowledge
Shlokas

Kailaasarana Shiva Chandramouli Phaneendra Maathaa Mukutee Zalaalee Kaarunya Sindhu Bhava Dukha Haaree Thujaveena Shambho Maja Kona Taaree

Meaning -Oh Lord Shiva who is seated on Mount Kailash, where the moon decorates his forehead and the king of serpents crown his head, who is merciful and removes delusion, You alone can protect me. I surrender to thee.

Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey Sugandhim Pusti Vardhanam Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat

Meaning -We worship the fragrant Lord Shiva, who has 3 eyes and who cultivates all beings. May He free me from death, for immortality, as even a cucumber is separated from its bond with the vine.

Timings

The temple is open from 05:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Weather in Champaawat
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