How to Reach Devidhura for Bagwal Mela

Bagwal is a ritual battle held every Raksha Bandhan at the Maa Varahi temple in Devidhura, Champawat. Four local clans fight with fruit, flowers and stones behind wooden shields, in memory of an old legend of human sacrifice.

Nearest railwayKathgodam or Tanakpur
From Haldwani≈ 125 km
From Lohaghat≈ 45 km
Best baseLohaghat or Champawat

Route to Devidhura at a glance

HaldwaniStart early
BhimtalHill road begins
DhariPine ridges
Devidhura≈ 125 km from Haldwani

From the Champawat side, come via Lohaghat (about 45 km).

Devidhura by train

Kathgodam≈ 130 km
Tanakpurvia Champawat and Lohaghat

Take a train to Kathgodam and go up via Bhimtal and Dhari, or to Tanakpur and go via Champawat and Lohaghat.

  • On fair day, extra shared jeeps run from Lohaghat and Champawat.

Devidhura by car or taxi

From Haldwani≈ 4-5 hrs
From Lohaghat≈ 2 hrs

Hire a taxi from Haldwani, Lohaghat or Champawat. On Raksha Bandhan the last stretch gets very crowded, so leave early and expect to walk the final part.

  • Monsoon roads can be blocked; keep a buffer.

How to Reach Devidhura: FAQs

Can I visit Devidhura as a day trip?

Yes from Lohaghat or Champawat. From Haldwani or Nainital it is a long day; staying nearby is easier.

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