Bhimtal

Bhimtal

Published on February 13, 2025

Bhimtal Travel Guide: Explore the Gem of Kumaon

Bhimtal is the serene, soulful alternative to the bustling streets of Nainital. Situated at an altitude of 1,370 meters in the Lake District of Uttarakhand, this town is named after the legendary Bhima from the Mahabharata. Whether you are looking for a peaceful solo retreat, a romantic honeymoon, or an adventurous family vacation, Bhimtal offers the perfect blend of nature and tranquillity.

Bhimtal – Information Table

Information Details
Location Bhimtal, Nainital district, Uttarakhand
Distance from Nainital Approximately 22 km
Altitude Around 1,370 metres (4,495 feet)
Main Attraction Bhimtal Lake
Lake Type Natural freshwater lake
Known For Boating, scenic hills, peaceful surroundings and lakeside sightseeing
Bhimtal Lake Area Approximately 47 hectares
Popular Activity Boating on Bhimtal Lake
Island Attraction Bhimtal Island Aquarium, located in the middle of the lake
Nearby Attractions Bhimeshwar Temple, Victoria Dam, Nal Damyanti Tal, Folk Culture Museum and Butterfly Research Centre
Adventure Activities Paragliding, trekking and hiking
Best Time to Visit April to June and October to December
Nearest Railway Station Kathgodam, approximately 22 km away
Nearest Airport Pantnagar Airport, approximately 58 km away
How to Reach Bhimtal is accessible by road from Nainital, Bhowali, Kathgodam and other Kumaon destinations

The Nainital district administration lists Bhimtal at about 22 km from Nainital and 1,370 metres in elevation, while Uttarakhand Tourism highlights boating, the island aquarium, Victoria Dam and nearby attractions.

Top Places to Visit in Bhimtal

Bhimtal Lake in Nainital district surrounded by lush green Himalayan hills, calm waters, and scenic lakeside views in Uttarakhand.

1. Bhimtal Lake & Island Aquarium

The crown jewel of the town. This C-shaped lake is the largest in the region. Unlike any other lake in India, it features a natural island in the middle, which houses a famous Island Aquarium. You can reach the aquarium via a scenic boat ride.

2. Victoria Dam

Located at the edge of the Bhimtal Lake, this 40-foot-high dam is a marvel of British engineering. Surrounded by terraced flower gardens, it is the most popular spot for morning walks and photography.

3. Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple

This 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva stands on the shores of the lake. It is believed that Bhima visited this spot during the Pandavas' exile, giving the town its name and spiritual heritage.

4. Hidimba Parvat

For those who love hiking, a trek to Hidimba Parvat offers a panoramic view of the entire Kumaon valley. The hill is named after the demon-goddess Hidimba and is covered in lush green forests.

5. Karkotaka Temple

Perched on a hilltop, this ancient temple is dedicated to the Serpent God. It is a peaceful pilgrimage site known for its quiet atmosphere and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks.

Best Things to Do in Bhimtal

Boating in Bhimtal Lake near Nainital with colorful boats, calm waters, and scenic Himalayan hills surrounding the lake in Uttarakhand.

  • Boating and Kayaking: Experience the stillness of the water with a traditional boat ride or a private kayaking session.

  • Paragliding: Head to the nearby Naukuchiatal (4 km away) to soar over the mountains and lakes.

  • Bird Watching: The oak and pine forests are a haven for migratory birds, making it a paradise for photographers.

  • Star Gazing: With low light pollution, the nights in Bhimtal offer a crystal-clear view of the Milky Way.

Essential Travel Information

**Bhimtal Lake near Nainital surrounded by lush green Himalayan hills, calm waters, colorful boats, and scenic lakeside views in Uttarakhand.**

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (March to June): Perfect weather for sightseeing (15°C to 30°C).

  • Winter (October to February): Best for honeymooners and peace seekers. It gets chilly, with temperatures dropping to 2°C.

  • Monsoon (July to September): Best for seeing the waterfalls and lush greenery, though mountain travel requires caution.

How to Reach

  • By Train: The nearest station is Kathgodam (22 km), which is well-connected to Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata.

  • By Air: The closest airport is Pantnagar (55 km).

  • By Road: Bhimtal is roughly a 7-8 hour drive (300 km) from New Delhi via well-maintained highways.

Why Choose TourMyHoliday for Bhimtal?

At TourMyHoliday, we specialize in Kumaon tourism. We offer curated travel packages that include:

  • Handpicked lakeside resorts and cosy homestays.

  • Expert local guides who know the hidden trails.

  • Seamless transport and 24/7 customer support.

  • Customizable itineraries to suit your budget and pace.

If you have a few extra days after exploring the serene waters and island aquarium of Bhimtal, extending your journey to Nainital is highly recommended. It serves as the perfect base for exploring the wider Lake District, including the breathtaking Tiffendale Top and the Snow View Point. Whether you are looking for a quick weekend getaway or a long family vacation, our curated Nainital Tour Package takes care of all the logistics, from comfortable transfers to guided sightseeing, so you can simply soak in the Himalayan vistas.

Related Places to Explore Near Bhimtal

If you have extra time during your Bhimtal trip, you can explore these nearby attractions and lakes:

Frequently Asked Questions About Bhimtal

1. Where is Bhimtal located?

Bhimtal is a scenic town in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, known mainly for the beautiful Bhimtal Lake.

2. How far is Bhimtal from Nainital?

Bhimtal is approximately 22 km from Nainital and can be reached by road via Bhowali.

3. What is Bhimtal famous for?

Bhimtal is famous for its large freshwater lake, boating, peaceful surroundings, forested hills, and nearby temples and attractions.

4. Can I enjoy boating in Bhimtal Lake?

Yes, boating is one of the most popular activities at Bhimtal Lake. Visitors can enjoy the lake views while travelling across its calm waters.

5. What are the main places to visit in Bhimtal?

Popular attractions include Bhimtal Lake, Bhimeshwar Temple, Victoria Dam, Nal Damyanti Tal, and the island aquarium located in Bhimtal Lake.

6. What is the best time to visit Bhimtal?

April to June is suitable for pleasant-weather sightseeing, while September to December can offer cooler weather and clear scenic views.

7. Is Bhimtal suitable for a family trip?

Yes, Bhimtal can be a good destination for families interested in boating, nature walks, sightseeing, and spending time around the lake.

8. How can I reach Bhimtal from Nainital?

Bhimtal is connected to Nainital by road. You can travel by local taxi, private vehicle, or other road transport through Bhowali.

9. Can Bhimtal be covered on a Nainital trip?

Yes, Bhimtal can easily be included in a Nainital sightseeing itinerary, especially when planning a day trip covering nearby Kumaon lakes.

10. What other lakes can I visit near Bhimtal?

Naukuchiatal and Sattal are among the popular nearby lake destinations and can be combined with Bhimtal for a Kumaon lake circuit.