Discover Amazing Bhimtal

Bhimtal, a captivating lake town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, stands as the largest and oldest settlement in the area, pre-dating the more famous hill station of Nainital. Named after the mighty Pandava brother Bhima, the town revolves around its expansive, pristine lake the Bhimtal Lake, which is significantly larger than its neighbor, Naini Lake.

Often preferred by those seeking a quieter, less congested experience compared to the bustling tourist hub nearby, Bhimtal is the perfect destination for a peaceful lakeside retreat near Delhi and the ideal base for exploring the surrounding seven lakes (the Sattal circuit). Travelers are drawn to its stunning natural beauty, the unique island aquarium in the middle of the lake, and the deep mythological history embodied by the ancient temple on its bank. This guide ensures you have all the necessary information for a seamless and enriching journey to this tranquil gem.

How to Reach Bhimtal

Bhimtal is highly accessible, thanks to the well-developed transport infrastructure serving the Kumaon foothills, making the journey straightforward and popular for a quick weekend getaway from the NCR.

Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (KGM)

• Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM): This is the most convenient railhead, located approximately 21 to 23 kilometers from Bhimtal. Kathgodam is the terminal station for the broad-gauge line and is rightly known as the "Gateway of Kumaon."
  • Connectivity: Kathgodam enjoys robust rail connectivity to major North Indian cities, especially New Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. Key trains like the New Delhi Shatabdi Express offer fast service, making the journey from Delhi typically 5 to 7 hours.
  • Transfer to Bhimtal: From the station, the drive to Bhimtal is short and pleasant, taking only about 45 minutes to an hour. You can easily hire private taxis or shared cabs, or take a local bus, which provides the most budget-friendly way to reach Bhimtal.

Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (PGH)

• Pantnagar Airport (PGH): This is the nearest domestic airport to Bhimtal, situated approximately 55 to 58 kilometers away.
  • Connectivity: Pantnagar offers limited but direct flight connectivity, primarily to and from New Delhi. Taxis and private cabs are readily available outside the airport for the scenic 1.5- to 2-hour road journey to Bhimtal.

By Road: A Comfortable Drive

Bhimtal is well-connected by road, making a self-drive trip or a bus journey a pleasant option.

• Route: The road distance from Delhi is about 300 kilometers. The journey involves traveling on national highways and then ascending through the picturesque hills from Kathgodam. The drive generally takes 6 to 7 hours, offering a scenic self-drive experience to Bhimtal.
• Bus Services: Regular State Transport (UTC) and private buses operate from major cities like Delhi (ISBT Anand Vihar) to the Bhimtal Bus Stand, providing a direct and convenient travel option.

Best Time to Visit: Ideal Weather for Watersports

Bhimtal offers a distinct charm in every season, but the weather is most conducive to outdoor activities during the spring and autumn months.

Peak Season (March to June): Perfect for Boating and Leisure

• What to Expect: This is the best time to visit Bhimtal for comfortable sightseeing and outdoor fun. The weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. The clear skies are perfect for photography and enjoying the lake.
• Best For: Boating and kayaking on Bhimtal Lake, trekking on surrounding hills like Hidimba Parvat, and visiting the Island Aquarium. This period is highly favored by families and those seeking a typical hill station summer break.

Moderate Season (July to September): The Monsoon Greenery

• What to Expect: The area experiences moderate to heavy rainfall. The hills and forests are transformed into a vibrant, lush green, making the landscape particularly beautiful for nature lovers. The lake is full and majestic during this time.
• Best For: Nature photography, budget travel (due to off-season rates), and experiencing the misty, quiet ambiance. Travelers should exercise caution on the roads due to rain.

Off-Season (October to February): Clear Views and Peaceful Chill

• What to Expect: The weather is chilly, with temperatures dropping between 5°C and 15°C. The air is crisp, offering the clearest views of the distant Himalayan peaks in the early winter months. Heavy snowfall is rare in the main town but possible in higher areas in January.
• Best For: Travelers who prefer solitude, enjoying cozy winter retreats near the lake, and seeking spectacular, unobstructed mountain views.

History and Mythology: The Legend of Bhima

Bhimtal's history is deeply intertwined with the mythological and cultural narrative of ancient India, predating the colonial era that shaped its neighbors.

The Mahabharata Connection

Bhimtal is named after the mighty Bhima (Bhimsen), one of the five Pandava brothers from the epic Mahabharata. Local legend maintains that during their period of exile (Agyaatvaas), the Pandavas passed through this region. When Bhima's wife, Draupadi, expressed a need for water, Bhima, using his immense strength, struck the ground with his heavy mace (Gada), causing a spring of water to emerge, which eventually formed the vast lake. The lake and the town were thus named in his honor.

The Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple

The ancient Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple, located on the bank of the lake, stands as a testament to this mythological link. It is believed that the original temple was erected by Bhima himself to venerate Lord Shiva. The current temple structure, however, was renovated and built in the 17th century by Raja Baz Bahadur of the Chand Dynasty, who ruled the Kumaon region. This history solidifies Bhimtal's identity as a significant ancient pilgrimage site in Kumaon.

The Old Trade Route

Historically, Bhimtal was far more important than Nainital. It sat directly on the ancient silk route connecting the plains of India to the hills of Kumaon and further on to Tibet and Nepal. This strategic location made it a major trading post and a bustling administrative center long before the British established their summer capital at Naini Lake. The construction of the Victoria Dam by the British in 1883 further solidified its importance for irrigation and water storage.

Places to Visit: The Core Attractions and Hidden Gems

Bhimtal's tourist attractions are centered around the lake and extend to the surrounding hills and cultural centers, offering a complete sightseeing experience.

1. The Magnificent Bhimtal Lake

• Bhimtal Lake: The central feature of the town and the largest lake in the Nainital district. Unlike Nainital's crescent shape, Bhimtal Lake is more expansive and features an idyllic island at its center.
• Island Aquarium and Cafe: The unique island in the middle of Bhimtal Lake is one of the town's biggest draws. Visitors must take a boat to reach the island, which houses a small, charming aquarium showcasing a variety of freshwater fish. The surrounding café makes it a perfect, leisurely spot for an afternoon break.
• Victoria Dam: Located at the one end of the lake, this colonial-era dam offers beautiful views. The area near the dam is famous for its terraced flower gardens and provides a fantastic spot for a peaceful lakeside walk in Bhimtal.

2. Spiritual Sites and Mythological Peaks

• Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple: Located adjacent to the Victoria Dam, this ancient Shiva temple, with its link to the Mahabharata, is a major pilgrimage site. Its location right on the water's edge provides a serene backdrop for spiritual contemplation.
• Hidimba Parvat: Named after the demon Hidimba, the wife of Bhima, this lush green hillock offers a short, enjoyable trek (about 5 km from the town center). At the top, one can visit the Vankhandi Ashram, a small spiritual retreat established by a local saint. The hill is a popular spot for short hiking in Bhimtal.
• Karkotaka Temple (Nag Temple): Situated on the Karkotaka Hill, this temple is dedicated to Nag Karkotaka Maharaja, the serpent god. It is highly revered by locals and attracts thousands of devotees during the Rishi Panchami festival who come to worship the deity.

3. Cultural and Scientific Exploration

• Folk Culture Museum (Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya): This private museum is a fascinating window into the rich culture and traditions of the Kumaon region. It houses a vast collection of valuable artifacts, including ancient wooden carvings, local art, and ritualistic objects, making it a must-visit cultural stop in Bhimtal.
• Butterfly Research Centre: Situated on a hill near the lake, this center is a treat for entomologists and nature lovers. It houses the fourth largest butterfly and moth reference collection in India, offering an insightful experience into the region's diverse ecosystem.
• Starscapes Observatory: Reflecting the town's push towards astro-tourism, this observatory provides a modern, educational experience, offering visitors the opportunity for stargazing and understanding the night sky through powerful telescopes.

4. The Tal Circuit (Lakes near Bhimtal)

Bhimtal is the best base to explore the region's interconnected lakes:

• Nal Damyanti Tal: Located just 2 km from Bhimtal, this small, placid, and sacred lake is named after the legendary love story of King Nal and Queen Damyanti. It's a quieter spot, ideal for peaceful nature photography.
• Sattal (Seven Lakes): A cluster of seven freshwater lakes mysteriously interconnected, located about 7 km away. It is an ecotourism hub, famous for bird watching, camping, and trekking near Bhimtal, offering a more rustic experience than the main towns.
• Naukuchiatal (Nine-Cornered Lake): Situated only 4 km away, this is the deepest of the Kumaon lakes and is named for its unique, nine-cornered shape. It is a highly sought-after destination for adventure sports like paragliding and yachting.

Things To Do: Water Activities and Mountain Adventures

Bhimtal's activities leverage its geography, offering an ideal mix of lakeside relaxation and mountain thrills.

• Boating and Water Sports: Boating on the large, uncrowded Bhimtal Lake is the prime activity. Options include traditional rowboats, paddle boats, and for the adventurous, kayaking on the lake. The lake also allows for angling and fishing (with necessary permits).
• Paragliding and Adventure Sports: The hills surrounding Bhimtal and the nearby Naukuchiatal are famous for being some of the best spots for paragliding in Uttarakhand. Certified operators offer tandem flights, providing thrilling, bird’s-eye views of the lake district.
• Hiking and Cycling: The less-crowded roads around the lake and the trails leading up Hidimba Parvat are perfect for mountain biking and peaceful forest walks. Hiring a bicycle and cycling around the perimeter of the lake is a popular leisure activity.
• Picnicking at Victoria Dam: Spending a relaxing afternoon by the manicured gardens near the dam, enjoying the views of the lake and the temple, is a favorite simple pleasure for visitors.