Baleshwar
Admist the main city of Champawat is the historical
"Baleshwar Temple". Built by the rulers of
Chand Dynasty, Baleshwar Temple is a marvelous symbol
of stone carving. There isn't any historical manuscript
that dates the Baleshwar temple, however it is believed
to be built between 10 - 12 century A.D.
The main Baleshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva
(who is also know as Baleshwar). There are two other
temples in the compound of Baleshwar, one dedicated
to Bhairov and other to Champa Devi. The temple is built
on South Indian Architecture with magnificent Stone
Carving works. Close to the Baleshwar Temple is a "Naula"
(Fresh water resource) which has now dried up. On the
day of MahaShivRatri, a very crowded fair is held in
the Baleshwar Temple compound.
Baleshwar temples at Champawat has been declared as
a National Heritage Monument and is looked after by
Archological Survey of India (ASI) since 1952. As the
Champawat city has grown up, many residiential building
has been built up in the close proximity of Baleshwar
Temple which may harm this national heritage. Is the
ASI sleeping???
The entire Kumaon region by virtue of its proximity
with the Himalayas, has by tradition and legends been
associated with numerous gods and goddesses. Champawat
district has acquired the unique distinction of being
the holy land of gods and therefore, temples of very
large variety dedicated to diverse gods including local
deities and demons of restricted influence are spread
over the whole expanse. These temples either possess
the architectural features of great interest to a scholar
or provide sustenance to faith through setting local,
associated legends or fantastic design formations. The
urge to come back to them is irresistible in as much
as they exercise an impact on human psyche that beats
all scientific logic. Apart from this these temples
are of great interest to a casual tourist from the point
of view of design, landscape around and several other
features unique to them.
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