Bhimtal Lake isn’t just another hill station attraction—it’s a peaceful paradise nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region. Surrounded by misty mountains, lush pine forests, and colonial charm, Bhimtal offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers, honeymooners, families, and solo travelers alike. 🌄
In this blog, we’ll explore Bhimtal Lake tourist places, activities, travel tips, nearby attractions, and everything you need to make your trip unforgettable. ✨
📍 Where is Bhimtal Lake Located?
Bhimtal Lake is located in Bhimtal town, part of the Nainital district in Uttarakhand, around 22 km from Nainital city and approximately 300 km from Delhi. It’s named after Bhima, one of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.
🚗 How to Reach Bhimtal Lake?
Getting to Bhimtal is super convenient from major cities like Delhi.
- By Road: Bhimtal is connected via NH-9. It’s about 7 hours’ drive from Delhi.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, just 21 km away.
- By Air: The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport, around 58 km from Bhimtal.
⏰ Best Time to Visit Bhimtal Lake
Wondering when to plan your trip? Let’s break it down:
- Summer (March to June) – Pleasant and ideal for sightseeing 🌞
- Monsoon (July to September) – Green, but roads may be slippery 🌧️
- Winter (October to February) – Chill vibes, foggy mornings, perfect for cozy getaways ❄️
🌟 Top Tourist Attractions Near Bhimtal Lake
Bhimtal isn’t just about the lake. There’s so much more to explore nearby!
1. Bhimtal Lake & Island Aquarium 🐟
Let’s start with the crown jewel—Bhimtal Lake itself.
- Boating is a must-do here! Paddle and rowboats are available.
- In the middle of the lake, there’s a small island with an aquarium featuring exotic fishes from South America, China, and more. 🌍
2. Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple 🕉️
This ancient Lord Shiva temple lies on the banks of the lake. It’s believed to have been built by Bhima himself during his exile.
Peaceful, spiritual, and scenic—perfect for early morning visits. 🙏
3. Victoria Dam 🌺
Just behind the temple lies the Victoria Dam. It’s adorned with flower gardens and offers lovely views of the valley. A short walk here is totally worth it. 🌸
4. Butterfly Research Centre 🦋
If you love nature, don’t miss this!
- Home to over 2,500 butterfly species
- Run by experts who will guide you through the ecosystem
- Ideal for kids and curious minds 👨👩👧👦
5. Folk Culture Museum (Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya) 🏛️
Want to understand the culture and heritage of Uttarakhand?
This museum showcases:
- Traditional dresses
- Ritual items
- Rare manuscripts
- Weapons and kitchenware
6. Hidimba Parvat 🏞️
Named after Hidimba, Bhima’s wife, this hill is perfect for trekking and panoramic views. You’ll also find Vankhandi Ashram at the top, promoting eco-tourism.
7. Nal Damyanti Tal 🪷
A smaller and sacred lake near Bhimtal. According to legends, King Nala’s palace sank here. It’s quiet, uncrowded, and surrounded by pine trees—ideal for peace-seekers.
🏞️ Nearby Places to Explore from Bhimtal
Make the most of your trip by visiting nearby destinations too!
Nainital (22 km) 🏔️
Known for:
- Naini Lake
- Tiffin Top
- Mall Road shopping
Great for day trips! Don’t forget to try the famous Nainital momos. 😋
Naukuchiatal (4 km) 🚣
Meaning “lake with nine corners”, this lake is deeper than Bhimtal and famous for:
- Paragliding
- Kayaking
- Fishing
Sattal (10 km) 🌲
Literally translating to “seven lakes”, Sattal is a birdwatcher’s paradise and a camping hotspot.
🏨 Where to Stay in Bhimtal?
Bhimtal offers a range of accommodations from cozy homestays to luxury retreats.
Some popular stays:
- The Lake Resort
- Aamod at Bhimtal
- Emerald Trail Homestay
- The Fern Hillside Resort
Tip: Choose a lake-view room for the best sunrise views 🌅
🍛 What to Eat in Bhimtal?
Don’t leave without trying the local Kumaoni food! Here are some must-haves:
- Bhatt Ki Churkani – Lentil dish with smoky flavor
- Aloo Ke Gutke – Spicy boiled potatoes
- Raita and Bhang Ki Chutney – Perfect side combo
- Bal Mithai – A local sweet made of khoya and sugar
🧳 Travel Tips for Bhimtal Visitors
- Avoid monsoon months (July-Sept) due to landslides
- Book boating early to avoid queues
- Pack layers, even in summer—it gets chilly at night!
- Carry cash—some areas have weak internet for card machines
- Hire a local guide if trekking or birdwatching 🧭
🌱 Eco-Friendly Travel in Bhimtal
Bhimtal is a fragile ecosystem, so be a responsible traveler:
- Avoid plastic
- Stick to marked trails
- Support local businesses and homestays
- Don’t feed the wildlife
Let’s keep Bhimtal beautiful for future generations ❤️
❤️ Final Words: Why Bhimtal Should Be on Your Bucket List
So there you have it—a complete guide to the tourist places in Bhimtal Lake, Uttarakhand.
Bhimtal is:
- Less crowded than Nainital
- More peaceful and nature-rich
- Full of charming lakes, temples, and hiking trails
- Affordable and accessible
If you’re craving peace, nature, and authenticity, Bhimtal Lake is calling you. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and lose yourself in this Himalayan wonder! 🏔️🌸
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the main attraction of Bhimtal?
The main attraction is the Bhimtal Lake, featuring boating and a unique island aquarium.
Q2: Is Bhimtal better than Nainital?
If you love peace, nature, and less crowd—yes! Bhimtal is more serene compared to the touristy Nainital.
Q3: Are there adventure activities in Bhimtal?
Yes! You can enjoy boating, kayaking, trekking, and nearby paragliding in Naukuchiatal.
Q4: How many days are enough for Bhimtal?
A 2-day trip is enough to explore Bhimtal and its nearby spots like Sattal and Naukuchiatal.
Q5: Is Bhimtal good for family vacations?
Absolutely! It’s safe, calm, and full of kid-friendly activities like aquariums, boating, and butterfly museums.