Bhimtal is a picturesque town located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, in the Nainital district. It is known for its beautiful Bhimtal Lake, which is the largest lake in the Nainital district and a popular tourist attraction.Bhimtal is a town and a nagar panchayat, near Nainital city in Nainital district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 1370 meters above sea level and is about 22 kilometers from Nainital.
Elevation: 1,370 m
District: Nanital
Division: Kumaon
Temperatures:
Summer – 15°–30°C
Winter – 2°–19°C
Bhimtal is an ancient place named after Bhima of Mahabharata. Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple, an old Shiva temple on the bank of Bhimtal lake, is believed to have been built when Bhima visited the place during the banishment (vanvas) period of Pandavas. The present temple was built in the 17th century, by Baz Bahadur (1638–78 AD), a King of the Chand dynasty, and the Raja of Kumaon.Archived 2008-06-18 at the Wayback Machine British Library.
Bhimtal is older than nearby Nainital as the city of Nainital is just 150–160 years old. Bhimtal was a stoppage onroute on the old pedestrian road, which connects nearby Kathgodam to all Kumaon region and even to Nepal and Tibet. It might have been the part of the famous ancient silk route.
The Bhimtal Lake stays open between 9 AM and 6 PM every day of the week. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here so you should plan your visit accordingly.
The entry to the lake is absolutely free but you will have to pay Rupees 150 per person if you want to indulge in boating.
Bhimtal Lake is one of the most picturesque lakes in North India with a beautiful hill range in the backdrop. To get the best deals to visit this tranquil lake, get in touch with Thomas Cook.
The major attraction in Bhimtal is the Bhimtal Lake, which has an island at its centre Here are some key features and attractions of Bhimtal:
The centerpiece of Bhimtal is its serene lake, named after the legendary character Bhima from the Indian epic, Mahabharata. Visitors can enjoy boating, paddle boating, and even fishing on the lake. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills, making it a peaceful and scenic spot. Within Bhimtal Lake, there is a small island with a restaurant called "Bhima's Island." You can take a boat ride to the island and enjoy a meal while surrounded by the tranquil waters of the lake.
Bhimtal is home to an interesting aquarium that showcases a variety of freshwater species, including fish and underwater plants. It's a great place for families and those interested in aquatic life.
This hill near Bhimtal is named after Hidimba, a character from the Mahabharata. There is a temple dedicated to Hidimba on top of the hill, offering panoramic views of Bhimtal and the surrounding region.Hidimba Parvat, also known as Hidimba Hill, is a prominent natural attraction located near Bhimtal in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is a picturesque hill that holds both natural beauty and cultural significance.
Garg Parvat:
The Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple is a significant religious site located in the town of Bhimtal, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This temple holds immense religious and historical importance in the region, and it is dedicated to Lord Shiva.The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Lord Shiva is often worshipped as the destroyer and transformer in the Hindu pantheon.In addition to its religious significance, the temple is also a tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the temple's premises, offer their prayers, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance by the lakeside.
The Victoria Dam is a historical structure located near Bhimtal in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This dam is a notable attraction in the region and offers a peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy.The Victoria Dam is an old dam that dates back to the British colonial era. It was built during the British rule in India and was named after Queen Victoria, the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom at the time.The dam is situated near Bhimtal, which is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand. It is conveniently located and is easily accessible to tourists visiting Bhimtal.
Folk culture museums are valuable resources for preserving and showcasing the traditional heritage, art, crafts, and lifestyle of a region's indigenous communities. They often feature exhibits, artifacts, costumes, musical instruments, and more, providing visitors with insights into the rich cultural diversity of a particular area. If such a museum exists in Bhimtal or its vicinity, it can be a fascinating place to explore and learn about the local culture and traditions.
The Karkotaka Temple in Bhimtal is indeed dedicated to the snake god Karkotaka. This temple is a significant religious site in the region and is known for its unique location within a dense forest, creating a tranquil and mystical ambiance. Visitors often come here not only for its religious importance but also to enjoy the serene natural surroundings and the spiritual atmosphere of the temple. It's a fascinating place to explore while visiting Bhimtal.
The Butterfly Research Center, also known as the Butterfly Museum, is a fascinating attraction located near Bhimtal in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This center is dedicated to the study and conservation of butterflies, making it a unique and educational destination. The Butterfly Research Center is entirely dedicated to butterflies. It serves as a research facility, conservation center, and educational institution focused on these beautiful insects.
Shopping:
Bhimtal offers opportunities for shopping local handicrafts, souvenirs, and woollen goods. You can explore the markets and shops to buy traditional Kumaoni items.Shopping in Bhimtal can be a delightful experience, offering opportunities to purchase a variety of items, including local handicrafts, souvenirs, and regional products.
Bhimtal is a peaceful and less crowded alternative to the more famous Nainital, making it an ideal destination for those looking to relax in a serene environment surrounded by nature. It's a perfect place for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation in the Himalayan foothills.
BOATING AND FISHING:
Bhimtal offers fantastic boating opportunities on its serene lake. Visitors can rent rowboats, paddleboats, or even take a peaceful boat ride to explore the beautiful surroundings. Fishing enthusiasts can also enjoy angling in the lake, making it a delightful destination for both boating and fishing enthusiasts.
TREKKING:
Bhimtal offers several trekking and hiking opportunities in the nearby hills and forests. You can opt for short treks like the Bhimtal to Sattal trek or longer ones to nearby places like Nainital or Naukuchiatal.The region boasts numerous trekking trails, ranging from short and scenic walks to more challenging hikes. Popular treks include the Bhimtal to Sattal trek and longer excursions to nearby destinations like Nainital and Naukuchiatal. Trekkers can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Kumaon region while exploring these trails.
CAMPING:
Camping in Bhimtal is a thrilling outdoor experience. Several campsites around the town offer opportunities to immerse in nature's tranquility. Set amidst lush forests and near the serene lake, camping here allows you to enjoy bonfires, stargazing, and the serene ambiance of the Himalayan foothills, making it a memorable adventure.
PARAGLIDING:
Paragliding in Bhimtal is an exhilarating adventure. The town offers paragliding opportunities for thrill-seekers, allowing them to soar high above the picturesque landscape. With experienced instructors and breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding hills, Bhimtal provides an unforgettable paragliding experience amidst the natural beauty of the Kumaon region.
KAYAKING:
Bhimtal offers a fantastic kayaking experience on its serene lake. Kayakers can paddle along the calm waters surrounded by lush greenery and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. It's a great way to connect with nature and explore the scenic beauty of Bhimtal from a unique perspective, making it a must-try activity.
ZORBING:
Bhimtal offers the exciting activity of zorbing, where adventurers roll down a hill inside a large transparent ball. This thrilling experience provides a unique perspective of the beautiful surroundings as you spin and bounce, creating an adrenaline-pumping adventure in the midst of Bhimtal's natural beauty.
MOUNTAIN BIKING OR CYCLING:
Bhimtal offers thrilling mountain biking and cycling opportunities. Enthusiasts can explore scenic trails and winding roads through the picturesque landscapes of the Kumaon region. The hilly terrain, dense forests, and charming villages make it an excellent destination for both leisurely rides and challenging mountain biking adventures.
How to Reach:
By Air: 58 KM from Pantnagar Airport.
By Train: 22 KM from Kathgodam Railway Station.
By Road: Bhimtal is 22 KM from Nainital and 11 KM from Bhowali. Its distance is 28 KM from Haldwani.
