Bageshwar | Uttarakhand State PSC (UKPSC): Preparation - UKPSC (Uttarakhand) PDF Download

 Page 1


Bageshwar
Situated at the confluence of rivers Saryu, Gomti and latent Bhagirathi, lies
the holy township of Bageshwar; also revered as the pious land associated
with Lord Sadashiva, the redeemer of all sins. With the east and west flanked
by the Bhileswar and Nileshwar mountains and surrounded by Suraj Kund in
the north and Agni Kund in the south.
History- The district of Bageshwar was established in the year 1997. Prior
to this, Bageshwar was part of Almora district.The area, that now forms
Bageshwar district, was historically known as Danpur, and was ruled by
Katyuris during the 7
th
 century AD. After the disintegration of the Katyuri
kingdom in the 13
th
 century, the area remained under the rule of Baijnath
Katyurs, direct descendants of Katyuri kings. In 1565, king Balo Kalyan
Chand annexed Danpur along with Pali, Barahmandal and Mankot to
Kumaun.In 1791, Almora, the seat of the Kumaon, was invaded and annexed
by the Gorkhas of Nepal. The Gorkhas ruled the region for 24 years and were
later defeated by the East India Company in 1814, and were forced to cede
Kumaon to the British as part of the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816. After its
annexation by British, Bageshwar was a part of the Danpur pargana in
Almora district of United Provinces. Bageshwar was made a separate tehsil in
1974, and in 1976 it was declared a pargana, after which, it formally came
into being as a large administrative center. Since 1985, the demand for
declaring it a separate district of different parties and regional people started,
and finally, in September 1997, Bageshwar was made the new district of
Uttar Pradesh.
Sub Divisions- Kanda, Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot Tehsils- Bageshwar,
Garur, Kapkot, Kanda, Kafligair, Dug Nakuri. Sub Tehsil- Shama Blocks-
Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot
IMPORTANT PLACES
KANDA- Situated at a distance of 25 kms from Bageshwar. An ancient
Bhadrakali temple stands very near to Kanda. The beautiful hill station, and
home of peace (Shantinikitan), Kanda is situated at 1500-1900m above sea
level. According to legends, and the older inhabitants, there once lived a local
Page 2


Bageshwar
Situated at the confluence of rivers Saryu, Gomti and latent Bhagirathi, lies
the holy township of Bageshwar; also revered as the pious land associated
with Lord Sadashiva, the redeemer of all sins. With the east and west flanked
by the Bhileswar and Nileshwar mountains and surrounded by Suraj Kund in
the north and Agni Kund in the south.
History- The district of Bageshwar was established in the year 1997. Prior
to this, Bageshwar was part of Almora district.The area, that now forms
Bageshwar district, was historically known as Danpur, and was ruled by
Katyuris during the 7
th
 century AD. After the disintegration of the Katyuri
kingdom in the 13
th
 century, the area remained under the rule of Baijnath
Katyurs, direct descendants of Katyuri kings. In 1565, king Balo Kalyan
Chand annexed Danpur along with Pali, Barahmandal and Mankot to
Kumaun.In 1791, Almora, the seat of the Kumaon, was invaded and annexed
by the Gorkhas of Nepal. The Gorkhas ruled the region for 24 years and were
later defeated by the East India Company in 1814, and were forced to cede
Kumaon to the British as part of the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816. After its
annexation by British, Bageshwar was a part of the Danpur pargana in
Almora district of United Provinces. Bageshwar was made a separate tehsil in
1974, and in 1976 it was declared a pargana, after which, it formally came
into being as a large administrative center. Since 1985, the demand for
declaring it a separate district of different parties and regional people started,
and finally, in September 1997, Bageshwar was made the new district of
Uttar Pradesh.
Sub Divisions- Kanda, Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot Tehsils- Bageshwar,
Garur, Kapkot, Kanda, Kafligair, Dug Nakuri. Sub Tehsil- Shama Blocks-
Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot
IMPORTANT PLACES
KANDA- Situated at a distance of 25 kms from Bageshwar. An ancient
Bhadrakali temple stands very near to Kanda. The beautiful hill station, and
home of peace (Shantinikitan), Kanda is situated at 1500-1900m above sea
level. According to legends, and the older inhabitants, there once lived a local
caste of Kanyal. Kanda is named after this caste. The hills of Kanda are very
attractive to foreign visitors, and is often likened to the Swiss Alps.
From 1988 tourists of different nationalities have come to stay at the center
for paying guests and ecotourism as volunteers. During their stay at
Sonargaon, which can last upto several months, visitors watch, join and enjoy
community life. They also gain a good understanding and knowledge of
Kumoani culture and way of life and of the deep spiritual and religions
beliefs.Visitors can learn about local food preparationtechniques, which is
done using specific spices and locally grown organic vegetables, and practice
yoga in calm environment.Various religious rituals and customs practiced in
Kumaun are showcased here.At ROSE one can participate in all the activites
of a villager including making woolen items, organic farming, preparing food
etc. Different voluntaree activities like construsction, environmental
conservation, teaching English, learning Hindi and Kumauni are other
features of ROSE. Temples like Badrinath Narayan, Kalika Mandir,
Gopeshwar Mahadev, Golu mandir Jawala Devi, Annpurna Mandir, Dholinag
Mandir, Hanuman Mandir, Pheninag Mandir can be visited. In this model
village regional fairs like Dashara fair, Shiva Ratri, Panchami fair, Bashi
Jagaran, Harela, Fooldaie, Basant Panchami, Ghee San Kranti, Rakhi,
Krishna Janamastami, are showcased.Rural culture and tradition like-
Chaachari, Jhora, Dholnagara, Choliya, Huraka Baden, Basuri –Jagar, Bashie
etc are also showcased.
PANDUSTHAL-According to legends, Pandusthal was the battle ground
where ‘Kauravas’ and ‘Pandavas’ had fought. There exists a natural ground
half a km in breadth. From Jakheda it is 20 km trek through the mountains.
VIJAYPUR-It is situated at a distance of 30 kms from Bageshwar town. A
high altitude station, one can have a panaromic view of the snow capped
Himalayan range from here.
BAIJNATH- Lying in the Katyuri valley, 26 kms from Bageshwar, is the
small but ancient town of Baijnath. It was once upon a time the capital of the
Katyuri dynasty of kings and the place was then called Kartikyapura. A
socio-cultural region, Baijnath is one among remote antiquity and of
historical importance. The remnants of those glorious days lie at the bank of
the Gomti river in the form of a group of temples. The temple is famous for
it’s ancient and magnificent stone idol of goddess Parvati. Around 8 KMs
from Baijnath on the Gwaldam road is lies the famous Kotkimai temple. One
Page 3


Bageshwar
Situated at the confluence of rivers Saryu, Gomti and latent Bhagirathi, lies
the holy township of Bageshwar; also revered as the pious land associated
with Lord Sadashiva, the redeemer of all sins. With the east and west flanked
by the Bhileswar and Nileshwar mountains and surrounded by Suraj Kund in
the north and Agni Kund in the south.
History- The district of Bageshwar was established in the year 1997. Prior
to this, Bageshwar was part of Almora district.The area, that now forms
Bageshwar district, was historically known as Danpur, and was ruled by
Katyuris during the 7
th
 century AD. After the disintegration of the Katyuri
kingdom in the 13
th
 century, the area remained under the rule of Baijnath
Katyurs, direct descendants of Katyuri kings. In 1565, king Balo Kalyan
Chand annexed Danpur along with Pali, Barahmandal and Mankot to
Kumaun.In 1791, Almora, the seat of the Kumaon, was invaded and annexed
by the Gorkhas of Nepal. The Gorkhas ruled the region for 24 years and were
later defeated by the East India Company in 1814, and were forced to cede
Kumaon to the British as part of the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816. After its
annexation by British, Bageshwar was a part of the Danpur pargana in
Almora district of United Provinces. Bageshwar was made a separate tehsil in
1974, and in 1976 it was declared a pargana, after which, it formally came
into being as a large administrative center. Since 1985, the demand for
declaring it a separate district of different parties and regional people started,
and finally, in September 1997, Bageshwar was made the new district of
Uttar Pradesh.
Sub Divisions- Kanda, Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot Tehsils- Bageshwar,
Garur, Kapkot, Kanda, Kafligair, Dug Nakuri. Sub Tehsil- Shama Blocks-
Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot
IMPORTANT PLACES
KANDA- Situated at a distance of 25 kms from Bageshwar. An ancient
Bhadrakali temple stands very near to Kanda. The beautiful hill station, and
home of peace (Shantinikitan), Kanda is situated at 1500-1900m above sea
level. According to legends, and the older inhabitants, there once lived a local
caste of Kanyal. Kanda is named after this caste. The hills of Kanda are very
attractive to foreign visitors, and is often likened to the Swiss Alps.
From 1988 tourists of different nationalities have come to stay at the center
for paying guests and ecotourism as volunteers. During their stay at
Sonargaon, which can last upto several months, visitors watch, join and enjoy
community life. They also gain a good understanding and knowledge of
Kumoani culture and way of life and of the deep spiritual and religions
beliefs.Visitors can learn about local food preparationtechniques, which is
done using specific spices and locally grown organic vegetables, and practice
yoga in calm environment.Various religious rituals and customs practiced in
Kumaun are showcased here.At ROSE one can participate in all the activites
of a villager including making woolen items, organic farming, preparing food
etc. Different voluntaree activities like construsction, environmental
conservation, teaching English, learning Hindi and Kumauni are other
features of ROSE. Temples like Badrinath Narayan, Kalika Mandir,
Gopeshwar Mahadev, Golu mandir Jawala Devi, Annpurna Mandir, Dholinag
Mandir, Hanuman Mandir, Pheninag Mandir can be visited. In this model
village regional fairs like Dashara fair, Shiva Ratri, Panchami fair, Bashi
Jagaran, Harela, Fooldaie, Basant Panchami, Ghee San Kranti, Rakhi,
Krishna Janamastami, are showcased.Rural culture and tradition like-
Chaachari, Jhora, Dholnagara, Choliya, Huraka Baden, Basuri –Jagar, Bashie
etc are also showcased.
PANDUSTHAL-According to legends, Pandusthal was the battle ground
where ‘Kauravas’ and ‘Pandavas’ had fought. There exists a natural ground
half a km in breadth. From Jakheda it is 20 km trek through the mountains.
VIJAYPUR-It is situated at a distance of 30 kms from Bageshwar town. A
high altitude station, one can have a panaromic view of the snow capped
Himalayan range from here.
BAIJNATH- Lying in the Katyuri valley, 26 kms from Bageshwar, is the
small but ancient town of Baijnath. It was once upon a time the capital of the
Katyuri dynasty of kings and the place was then called Kartikyapura. A
socio-cultural region, Baijnath is one among remote antiquity and of
historical importance. The remnants of those glorious days lie at the bank of
the Gomti river in the form of a group of temples. The temple is famous for
it’s ancient and magnificent stone idol of goddess Parvati. Around 8 KMs
from Baijnath on the Gwaldam road is lies the famous Kotkimai temple. One
can also visit Pandusthal which lies nearby.
The temples at Baijnath proper are situated on the left bank of the Gomti.
On the way to the main temple, just below the house the Mahanta, is the
temple of Bamani (A corrupt form of Sanskrit Brahmani). Tradition of the
place says that it was built by Brahmin widow and was dedicated by her to
God Shiva. There is an idol of Shiva inside the temple. It has no inscriptions.
The construction of the temple does not differ from that of the Tailihata
group, so it may also be said to belong the same period. The main temple,
dedicated to Baijnath or Vaidhyanatha (a name of Shiva), which gives its
name to the present village is situated near the Gomti. The temple is
approacehed from the riverside by a flight of steps made of stones
constructed by the orders of Katyuri queen.
BAGNATH TEMPLE-At the junction of the rivers, Gomti and Saryu
stands a large temple with it’s conical tower. Here is the shrine of Bageswar
or Vyagreswar, the, “Tiger Lord”, an epithet of Lord Siva. This temple was
erected by the Kumaun king, Laxmi Chand, about 1450 A.D., but there is an
interesting Sanskrit inscription there of a far earlier date. The temple is
flooded with devotees on the annual occasion of Shivratri. This place has a
cluster of temples. Prominent amoug these temples are the Bairav temple,
Dattatrey Maharaj, Ganga Mai temple, Hanuman temple, Durga temple,
Kalika temple, Thingal Bhirav temple, Panchnam Junakhara and the
Vaneshwar temple.
CHANDIKA TEMPLE-A beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess
Chandika stands at a distance of about half a kilometre from Bageshwar.
Every year, the temple bustles with activity as the devout congregate here to
offer pujas to the deity during the Navratras.
SRIHARU TEMPLE- Situated at a distance of about 5 km. from
Bageshwer. Every year, a large fair is organised on the Vijya Dashmi day
following the Navratras.
GAURI UDIYAR-This is sitiated 8 kms from Bageshwer. A large cave,
measuring 20 X 95 sq mt. is situated here, which houses the idols of Lord
Shiva.
Other Temples- Ramghat Temple, Agnikund Temple, Ramji Temple,
Loknath Ashram, Nileshwar Mahadev, Kukudmai Temple, Venimahadev
Temple, Trijuginarayan Temple, Radhakrishna Temple, Hanuman Temple,
Bhileshwar Dham, Surajkund, Swargashram, Siddharth Dham, Gopeshwar
Page 4


Bageshwar
Situated at the confluence of rivers Saryu, Gomti and latent Bhagirathi, lies
the holy township of Bageshwar; also revered as the pious land associated
with Lord Sadashiva, the redeemer of all sins. With the east and west flanked
by the Bhileswar and Nileshwar mountains and surrounded by Suraj Kund in
the north and Agni Kund in the south.
History- The district of Bageshwar was established in the year 1997. Prior
to this, Bageshwar was part of Almora district.The area, that now forms
Bageshwar district, was historically known as Danpur, and was ruled by
Katyuris during the 7
th
 century AD. After the disintegration of the Katyuri
kingdom in the 13
th
 century, the area remained under the rule of Baijnath
Katyurs, direct descendants of Katyuri kings. In 1565, king Balo Kalyan
Chand annexed Danpur along with Pali, Barahmandal and Mankot to
Kumaun.In 1791, Almora, the seat of the Kumaon, was invaded and annexed
by the Gorkhas of Nepal. The Gorkhas ruled the region for 24 years and were
later defeated by the East India Company in 1814, and were forced to cede
Kumaon to the British as part of the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816. After its
annexation by British, Bageshwar was a part of the Danpur pargana in
Almora district of United Provinces. Bageshwar was made a separate tehsil in
1974, and in 1976 it was declared a pargana, after which, it formally came
into being as a large administrative center. Since 1985, the demand for
declaring it a separate district of different parties and regional people started,
and finally, in September 1997, Bageshwar was made the new district of
Uttar Pradesh.
Sub Divisions- Kanda, Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot Tehsils- Bageshwar,
Garur, Kapkot, Kanda, Kafligair, Dug Nakuri. Sub Tehsil- Shama Blocks-
Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot
IMPORTANT PLACES
KANDA- Situated at a distance of 25 kms from Bageshwar. An ancient
Bhadrakali temple stands very near to Kanda. The beautiful hill station, and
home of peace (Shantinikitan), Kanda is situated at 1500-1900m above sea
level. According to legends, and the older inhabitants, there once lived a local
caste of Kanyal. Kanda is named after this caste. The hills of Kanda are very
attractive to foreign visitors, and is often likened to the Swiss Alps.
From 1988 tourists of different nationalities have come to stay at the center
for paying guests and ecotourism as volunteers. During their stay at
Sonargaon, which can last upto several months, visitors watch, join and enjoy
community life. They also gain a good understanding and knowledge of
Kumoani culture and way of life and of the deep spiritual and religions
beliefs.Visitors can learn about local food preparationtechniques, which is
done using specific spices and locally grown organic vegetables, and practice
yoga in calm environment.Various religious rituals and customs practiced in
Kumaun are showcased here.At ROSE one can participate in all the activites
of a villager including making woolen items, organic farming, preparing food
etc. Different voluntaree activities like construsction, environmental
conservation, teaching English, learning Hindi and Kumauni are other
features of ROSE. Temples like Badrinath Narayan, Kalika Mandir,
Gopeshwar Mahadev, Golu mandir Jawala Devi, Annpurna Mandir, Dholinag
Mandir, Hanuman Mandir, Pheninag Mandir can be visited. In this model
village regional fairs like Dashara fair, Shiva Ratri, Panchami fair, Bashi
Jagaran, Harela, Fooldaie, Basant Panchami, Ghee San Kranti, Rakhi,
Krishna Janamastami, are showcased.Rural culture and tradition like-
Chaachari, Jhora, Dholnagara, Choliya, Huraka Baden, Basuri –Jagar, Bashie
etc are also showcased.
PANDUSTHAL-According to legends, Pandusthal was the battle ground
where ‘Kauravas’ and ‘Pandavas’ had fought. There exists a natural ground
half a km in breadth. From Jakheda it is 20 km trek through the mountains.
VIJAYPUR-It is situated at a distance of 30 kms from Bageshwar town. A
high altitude station, one can have a panaromic view of the snow capped
Himalayan range from here.
BAIJNATH- Lying in the Katyuri valley, 26 kms from Bageshwar, is the
small but ancient town of Baijnath. It was once upon a time the capital of the
Katyuri dynasty of kings and the place was then called Kartikyapura. A
socio-cultural region, Baijnath is one among remote antiquity and of
historical importance. The remnants of those glorious days lie at the bank of
the Gomti river in the form of a group of temples. The temple is famous for
it’s ancient and magnificent stone idol of goddess Parvati. Around 8 KMs
from Baijnath on the Gwaldam road is lies the famous Kotkimai temple. One
can also visit Pandusthal which lies nearby.
The temples at Baijnath proper are situated on the left bank of the Gomti.
On the way to the main temple, just below the house the Mahanta, is the
temple of Bamani (A corrupt form of Sanskrit Brahmani). Tradition of the
place says that it was built by Brahmin widow and was dedicated by her to
God Shiva. There is an idol of Shiva inside the temple. It has no inscriptions.
The construction of the temple does not differ from that of the Tailihata
group, so it may also be said to belong the same period. The main temple,
dedicated to Baijnath or Vaidhyanatha (a name of Shiva), which gives its
name to the present village is situated near the Gomti. The temple is
approacehed from the riverside by a flight of steps made of stones
constructed by the orders of Katyuri queen.
BAGNATH TEMPLE-At the junction of the rivers, Gomti and Saryu
stands a large temple with it’s conical tower. Here is the shrine of Bageswar
or Vyagreswar, the, “Tiger Lord”, an epithet of Lord Siva. This temple was
erected by the Kumaun king, Laxmi Chand, about 1450 A.D., but there is an
interesting Sanskrit inscription there of a far earlier date. The temple is
flooded with devotees on the annual occasion of Shivratri. This place has a
cluster of temples. Prominent amoug these temples are the Bairav temple,
Dattatrey Maharaj, Ganga Mai temple, Hanuman temple, Durga temple,
Kalika temple, Thingal Bhirav temple, Panchnam Junakhara and the
Vaneshwar temple.
CHANDIKA TEMPLE-A beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess
Chandika stands at a distance of about half a kilometre from Bageshwar.
Every year, the temple bustles with activity as the devout congregate here to
offer pujas to the deity during the Navratras.
SRIHARU TEMPLE- Situated at a distance of about 5 km. from
Bageshwer. Every year, a large fair is organised on the Vijya Dashmi day
following the Navratras.
GAURI UDIYAR-This is sitiated 8 kms from Bageshwer. A large cave,
measuring 20 X 95 sq mt. is situated here, which houses the idols of Lord
Shiva.
Other Temples- Ramghat Temple, Agnikund Temple, Ramji Temple,
Loknath Ashram, Nileshwar Mahadev, Kukudmai Temple, Venimahadev
Temple, Trijuginarayan Temple, Radhakrishna Temple, Hanuman Temple,
Bhileshwar Dham, Surajkund, Swargashram, Siddharth Dham, Gopeshwar
Dham, Golu Temple, Pratikshawar Mahadev.
Adventures- Some famous treks of this area are:- Pindari Glacier,
Sunderdhunga Glacier, Kaphni Glacier: GRADE 3B. Perhaps the best known
trekking route in Kumaun, the trail follows the Pindar River to it’s source on
the glacier are Nandakot (6,860 m), Chhanguch (6,322 m) and Nandaghunti
(6,310 m). On the east and west of Pindari glacier are the Kaphni, at the foot
of Nandakot and Sunderdhunga glaciers. Further west at the snout of the
Namik glacier originates the Ramganga River. Among these Pindari glacier is
3 km. long and 1/4 k.m. broad connected to the southwestern slope of the
outer walls of Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
Namik Glacier Trek-In this trek one can see the snout of Namik Glacier
and the stream coming down from Anargal and meeting the main stream after
going through Jogi Udiyar the ascent of Bhindawali and Penthang.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS- District like Bageshwar holds many valleys
which are absolutely dependent on common meetings for their supply of
common necessities, and consequently fairs or periodical markets are
numerous. There are two kind of these. The weekly assemblages,
corresponding to “market-day” in an English provincial town, are called
“Penth”. They are of an ordinary kind, and have no religious associations.
The great annual fairs are known by the name of “Mela”, and are always
connected with religious ideas and customs. They very often center round
some famous local shrine, which reaps an extensive harvest at the annual
festival. Business, pleasure and religion are cheerfully combined in these
junketing, which are doubtless the chief oases in the monotonous lives.The
following main festivals and functions are observed in Bageshwar: -
Vishuvati or Bikhauti- This festival is observed as the day of solstice.
This solstice is called Mesh (ram in form). A grand festival is observed on
this day with victuals fried in clarified butter, sweetmeats, betel-leaves etc. In
many places fairs are also held. Pahari songs are sung to accompaniment
playing of Hurka (small drum like musical instrument) and people dance.
This is an old festival of aboriginals of this place. On this day fishing is also
done and small round cakes of ground pulse (baras) are also eaten. It has been
the practice to smoulder the skin as many times as the number of ‘baras’ are
eaten. But this practice has been considerably reduced now. (The smoldering
of the stomach with a red hot iron is called ‘tala dalna’). On this day fairs are
held in Dwarahat, Syalde, Chaugar and Lohakhai.
Page 5


Bageshwar
Situated at the confluence of rivers Saryu, Gomti and latent Bhagirathi, lies
the holy township of Bageshwar; also revered as the pious land associated
with Lord Sadashiva, the redeemer of all sins. With the east and west flanked
by the Bhileswar and Nileshwar mountains and surrounded by Suraj Kund in
the north and Agni Kund in the south.
History- The district of Bageshwar was established in the year 1997. Prior
to this, Bageshwar was part of Almora district.The area, that now forms
Bageshwar district, was historically known as Danpur, and was ruled by
Katyuris during the 7
th
 century AD. After the disintegration of the Katyuri
kingdom in the 13
th
 century, the area remained under the rule of Baijnath
Katyurs, direct descendants of Katyuri kings. In 1565, king Balo Kalyan
Chand annexed Danpur along with Pali, Barahmandal and Mankot to
Kumaun.In 1791, Almora, the seat of the Kumaon, was invaded and annexed
by the Gorkhas of Nepal. The Gorkhas ruled the region for 24 years and were
later defeated by the East India Company in 1814, and were forced to cede
Kumaon to the British as part of the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816. After its
annexation by British, Bageshwar was a part of the Danpur pargana in
Almora district of United Provinces. Bageshwar was made a separate tehsil in
1974, and in 1976 it was declared a pargana, after which, it formally came
into being as a large administrative center. Since 1985, the demand for
declaring it a separate district of different parties and regional people started,
and finally, in September 1997, Bageshwar was made the new district of
Uttar Pradesh.
Sub Divisions- Kanda, Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot Tehsils- Bageshwar,
Garur, Kapkot, Kanda, Kafligair, Dug Nakuri. Sub Tehsil- Shama Blocks-
Bageshwar, Garur, Kapkot
IMPORTANT PLACES
KANDA- Situated at a distance of 25 kms from Bageshwar. An ancient
Bhadrakali temple stands very near to Kanda. The beautiful hill station, and
home of peace (Shantinikitan), Kanda is situated at 1500-1900m above sea
level. According to legends, and the older inhabitants, there once lived a local
caste of Kanyal. Kanda is named after this caste. The hills of Kanda are very
attractive to foreign visitors, and is often likened to the Swiss Alps.
From 1988 tourists of different nationalities have come to stay at the center
for paying guests and ecotourism as volunteers. During their stay at
Sonargaon, which can last upto several months, visitors watch, join and enjoy
community life. They also gain a good understanding and knowledge of
Kumoani culture and way of life and of the deep spiritual and religions
beliefs.Visitors can learn about local food preparationtechniques, which is
done using specific spices and locally grown organic vegetables, and practice
yoga in calm environment.Various religious rituals and customs practiced in
Kumaun are showcased here.At ROSE one can participate in all the activites
of a villager including making woolen items, organic farming, preparing food
etc. Different voluntaree activities like construsction, environmental
conservation, teaching English, learning Hindi and Kumauni are other
features of ROSE. Temples like Badrinath Narayan, Kalika Mandir,
Gopeshwar Mahadev, Golu mandir Jawala Devi, Annpurna Mandir, Dholinag
Mandir, Hanuman Mandir, Pheninag Mandir can be visited. In this model
village regional fairs like Dashara fair, Shiva Ratri, Panchami fair, Bashi
Jagaran, Harela, Fooldaie, Basant Panchami, Ghee San Kranti, Rakhi,
Krishna Janamastami, are showcased.Rural culture and tradition like-
Chaachari, Jhora, Dholnagara, Choliya, Huraka Baden, Basuri –Jagar, Bashie
etc are also showcased.
PANDUSTHAL-According to legends, Pandusthal was the battle ground
where ‘Kauravas’ and ‘Pandavas’ had fought. There exists a natural ground
half a km in breadth. From Jakheda it is 20 km trek through the mountains.
VIJAYPUR-It is situated at a distance of 30 kms from Bageshwar town. A
high altitude station, one can have a panaromic view of the snow capped
Himalayan range from here.
BAIJNATH- Lying in the Katyuri valley, 26 kms from Bageshwar, is the
small but ancient town of Baijnath. It was once upon a time the capital of the
Katyuri dynasty of kings and the place was then called Kartikyapura. A
socio-cultural region, Baijnath is one among remote antiquity and of
historical importance. The remnants of those glorious days lie at the bank of
the Gomti river in the form of a group of temples. The temple is famous for
it’s ancient and magnificent stone idol of goddess Parvati. Around 8 KMs
from Baijnath on the Gwaldam road is lies the famous Kotkimai temple. One
can also visit Pandusthal which lies nearby.
The temples at Baijnath proper are situated on the left bank of the Gomti.
On the way to the main temple, just below the house the Mahanta, is the
temple of Bamani (A corrupt form of Sanskrit Brahmani). Tradition of the
place says that it was built by Brahmin widow and was dedicated by her to
God Shiva. There is an idol of Shiva inside the temple. It has no inscriptions.
The construction of the temple does not differ from that of the Tailihata
group, so it may also be said to belong the same period. The main temple,
dedicated to Baijnath or Vaidhyanatha (a name of Shiva), which gives its
name to the present village is situated near the Gomti. The temple is
approacehed from the riverside by a flight of steps made of stones
constructed by the orders of Katyuri queen.
BAGNATH TEMPLE-At the junction of the rivers, Gomti and Saryu
stands a large temple with it’s conical tower. Here is the shrine of Bageswar
or Vyagreswar, the, “Tiger Lord”, an epithet of Lord Siva. This temple was
erected by the Kumaun king, Laxmi Chand, about 1450 A.D., but there is an
interesting Sanskrit inscription there of a far earlier date. The temple is
flooded with devotees on the annual occasion of Shivratri. This place has a
cluster of temples. Prominent amoug these temples are the Bairav temple,
Dattatrey Maharaj, Ganga Mai temple, Hanuman temple, Durga temple,
Kalika temple, Thingal Bhirav temple, Panchnam Junakhara and the
Vaneshwar temple.
CHANDIKA TEMPLE-A beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess
Chandika stands at a distance of about half a kilometre from Bageshwar.
Every year, the temple bustles with activity as the devout congregate here to
offer pujas to the deity during the Navratras.
SRIHARU TEMPLE- Situated at a distance of about 5 km. from
Bageshwer. Every year, a large fair is organised on the Vijya Dashmi day
following the Navratras.
GAURI UDIYAR-This is sitiated 8 kms from Bageshwer. A large cave,
measuring 20 X 95 sq mt. is situated here, which houses the idols of Lord
Shiva.
Other Temples- Ramghat Temple, Agnikund Temple, Ramji Temple,
Loknath Ashram, Nileshwar Mahadev, Kukudmai Temple, Venimahadev
Temple, Trijuginarayan Temple, Radhakrishna Temple, Hanuman Temple,
Bhileshwar Dham, Surajkund, Swargashram, Siddharth Dham, Gopeshwar
Dham, Golu Temple, Pratikshawar Mahadev.
Adventures- Some famous treks of this area are:- Pindari Glacier,
Sunderdhunga Glacier, Kaphni Glacier: GRADE 3B. Perhaps the best known
trekking route in Kumaun, the trail follows the Pindar River to it’s source on
the glacier are Nandakot (6,860 m), Chhanguch (6,322 m) and Nandaghunti
(6,310 m). On the east and west of Pindari glacier are the Kaphni, at the foot
of Nandakot and Sunderdhunga glaciers. Further west at the snout of the
Namik glacier originates the Ramganga River. Among these Pindari glacier is
3 km. long and 1/4 k.m. broad connected to the southwestern slope of the
outer walls of Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
Namik Glacier Trek-In this trek one can see the snout of Namik Glacier
and the stream coming down from Anargal and meeting the main stream after
going through Jogi Udiyar the ascent of Bhindawali and Penthang.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS- District like Bageshwar holds many valleys
which are absolutely dependent on common meetings for their supply of
common necessities, and consequently fairs or periodical markets are
numerous. There are two kind of these. The weekly assemblages,
corresponding to “market-day” in an English provincial town, are called
“Penth”. They are of an ordinary kind, and have no religious associations.
The great annual fairs are known by the name of “Mela”, and are always
connected with religious ideas and customs. They very often center round
some famous local shrine, which reaps an extensive harvest at the annual
festival. Business, pleasure and religion are cheerfully combined in these
junketing, which are doubtless the chief oases in the monotonous lives.The
following main festivals and functions are observed in Bageshwar: -
Vishuvati or Bikhauti- This festival is observed as the day of solstice.
This solstice is called Mesh (ram in form). A grand festival is observed on
this day with victuals fried in clarified butter, sweetmeats, betel-leaves etc. In
many places fairs are also held. Pahari songs are sung to accompaniment
playing of Hurka (small drum like musical instrument) and people dance.
This is an old festival of aboriginals of this place. On this day fishing is also
done and small round cakes of ground pulse (baras) are also eaten. It has been
the practice to smoulder the skin as many times as the number of ‘baras’ are
eaten. But this practice has been considerably reduced now. (The smoldering
of the stomach with a red hot iron is called ‘tala dalna’). On this day fairs are
held in Dwarahat, Syalde, Chaugar and Lohakhai.
Vat Savitri Amavasya-Women fast on this day. The story of chaste Savitri
and Satyavan is heard on this day. The figures of the dead Satyavan, Yamraj
(the God of death) and eminent jewel among chaste women Savitri are drwan
under a banyan tree and they are worshipped consecrating the thread of
twelve knots (door), women tie it around their necks.
Harela-Hariyala or the solstice of Karka, 10-11 days before the solstice of
Shravan (July-August), putting soil in bamboo pots etc. preparing a bed,
paddy, maize, horse bean and other grains produced in the rainy season are
sown and this is called Hariyala. It is not put in the Sun. By doing so the
colour of the plants becomes yellow.
Harishyani Ekadasi-This is a famous fast. The women hold the rule of
Chatursmasya (the bathing and fasting for months beginning on the eve of the
rainy season) from this day. The fast ends on Haribodhini (awakening of
gods).
Simha OR Ghri Sankranti-The solstice of Simha is also called olagia.
Earlier, during the Chand rule, craftsman received reward on this day by
showing or exhibiting articles of their crafts and handiwork, and the other
people too carried flowers, fruits, vegetables. Curd, milk, sweets and several
kinds of best things to the royal court or as present for the venerable people.
This was known as the rite of ‘olag’. This custom resembled the presentation
of gifts to the Britishers on Christmas day. Even now this festival is
celebrated in some majors. So this solistice is called ‘olagia’ also. This is
called ‘Ghrit’ or ‘Ghee’ (clarified butter) Sankranti. On this day there is a
wide-spread custom to consume much Ghee with breads prepared from
pounded horse-bean.
SANKASHT CHATURTHI-This is the fast and worship of Ganesh on the
fourth day of the dark half of Bhadra (Aug-Sep). Food is taken on the
visibility of the moon after giving chairity by libation in honour of the deity,
moon. This fast is generally undertaken by the women.
HARITALI FAST-This fast is kept on the third day of the dark half of
Aug-Sep. The women folk observe this fast for prosperity,that is the
longevity of their husbands. The Samvedis have their ‘Upakarma’ in the Hast
asterism.
DOORVASHTAMI-This fast is held on the eighth of the bright half of
Aug-Sep. making Doorva (agrootislinearis) of gold, silver, silk etc.,
consecrating and worshipping it, the women wear it themselves. Prayer to