Champawat

Champawat is a district in the State of Uttarakhand in India. The district is located between 29 degree 5 minutes and 29 degree 30 minutes in northern altitude and 79 degree 59 minutes and 80 degree 3 minutes at the center of eastern longitude.

The 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, Udham Singh Nagar and Almora districts simultaneously. The long chain of mountain in southwestern region acts as a border between the district Champawat and Nainital district. It is important from the defence point of view as in the east Kali river acts as the international border between Nepal and India.

The geographical area of Champawat district is about 1613 sq km.

As per census 2001, the Champawat district had a population of 224,542.

It includes two Tahsils, four development blocks and 691 revenue villages.

History

The district of Champawat constituted in the year 1997.

The district owes its name to King Arjun Deo's daughter Champawati. Earlier this district was a part of district Almora. In 1972 the Champawat Tahsil of Almora district was transferred to Pithoragarh. On 15th Sep, 1997 Champawat district was given an independent identity.

Champawat has an ancient history. In the ancient times, it is believed that the region was the origin of Naga, Kinnar and Khas Raja’s. The available historical pillars, manuscripts, archeological collection and folk-lore describe the greatness of the area during the period of Maha Bharata. Barahi Temple of Devidhura, Tarkeshwar Mandir of Champawat, Vanasur Fort of Vishung, Baleshwar Mandir of Champawat, Sapteshwar Mandir of Sipti and Ghatotkasha temples are believed to be of the great period of Mahabharat.

Katiyur dynasty also ruled the area in ancient times.

Chandra dyanasty ruled the area in modern times but around 1790, with the establishment of the Gorkharaj, the Chandra Vansha came to its end. In 1814, the Britishers forced the Gorkhas to leave the place.

Politics

Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) constituencies and their areas after delimitation order of 2008

54 Lohaghat Vidhan Sabha Constituency - 3-Pati Tehsil; 4-Lohaghat Tehsil & 5-Barakot Sub Tehsil.

55 Champawat Vidhan Sabha Constituency - 1-Champawat Tehsil & 2-Sri Purnagiri Tehsil.

Places of interest
Baleshwar Temple, Nagnath Temple, Lohaghat, Mayawati Ashram, Abbot Mount, Devidhura, Pancheshwar, Vanasur-Ka-Kila, Meetha Reetha Saheb, Purnagiri Temple, Shyamlatal