Champwat is believed to the place where the Kurmavtar (the turtle incarnation of Lord Vishnu) took place. Champawat was formerly the capital of the Chand dynasty rulers. The Baleshwar Temple built by the Chand rulers in 16th century is an excellent monument with marvelous stone carving works. Champawat was home to the Champawat Tiger.

it is the most artistic temple of the district. There are evidences to the effect that the group of temples are dedicated to Baleshwar, Ratneshwar and Champavati Durga had been built by the early kings of the Chand dynasty. The temple once had intricate structural features and a sanctuary with the 'mandap'.

it is 5kms from Champavat and is believed to have been constructed in just one night by the one handed artisan.

to the ease of the Champavat, the temple dedicated to Kranteshwar Mahadev is situated on the top of a lofty hill. It is also called Kurmapad and Kandev.

it is another excellent example of the ancient architecture of Kumaon