BHIMTAL
Introduction:
Are you tired of the same old touristy destinations? Sick of seeing the same monuments and landmarks in every travel brochure? Well, fear not my fellow adventurer, because I have just the place for you. Welcome to Bhimtal - a hidden gem nestled in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand.
But what makes Bhimtal so special, you ask? Well, for starters, it's not as crowded and overhyped as some of its neighboring towns. It's peaceful, serene and has a charm of its own. And let's not forget about the breathtaking views of the lake that will leave you in awe.
But that's not all. If you're a foodie like me, then Bhimtal will surely tickle your taste buds. From local street food to fancy restaurants serving delicious North Indian cuisine, there's something for everyone.
And did I mention the adventures? You can go paragliding, zip-lining or even trekking to nearby hills. It's perfect for adrenaline junkies looking for some excitement.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Bhimtal for an unforgettable experience. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Bhimtal
- How to Reach and getting around Bhimtal
- Weather of Bhimtal
- Places to Visit in Bhimtal
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Bhimtal
- Best areas for Accommodation in Bhimtal
- Shopping in Bhimtal
- Nightlife in Bhimtal
- Festivals and Events in Bhimtal
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Bhimtal
- FAQs
History and Culture of Bhimtal
Bhimtal is a popular tourist destination in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The town is named after Bhima, one of the five Pandava brothers from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Legend has it that Bhima visited the lake in Bhimtal during his exile and found it to be a peaceful and serene place.
The town's main attraction is the Bhimtal Lake, which is believed to be an ancient natural lake formed by a landslide. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is also home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
Apart from its natural beauty, Bhimtal also has a rich cultural heritage. The town has several temples dedicated to various Hindu deities, including Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple and Garg Parvat. These temples are important pilgrimage sites for Hindus and attract thousands of visitors every year.
The local cuisine of Bhimtal is also worth trying. The town is famous for its traditional Kumaoni dishes like bhatt ki churkani, gahat ki daal, and baadi. These dishes are prepared using locally sourced ingredients and have a unique taste that cannot be found anywhere else.
Overall, Bhimtal is a charming town that offers something for everyone – from nature lovers to history buffs to foodies. So if you're looking for a fun and interesting vacation destination, look no further than Bhimtal!
How to Reach and getting around Bhimtal
Bhimtal, a small town known for its serene lake and lush green surroundings, is a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand. If you're planning a trip to this beautiful place, here are some ways to reach it:
By Road: Bhimtal is well-connected by road with major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Nainital. You can take a private or state-run bus from these cities. Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi or self-drive to enjoy the scenic route.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Bhimtal is Kathgodam, which is about 22 km away. From here, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimtal.
By Air: The nearest airport to Bhimtal is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 56 km away. From here, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimtal.
By Trekking: If you love trekking and want to explore the natural beauty of Uttarakhand, then you can trek to Bhimtal from nearby places like Nainital and Bhowali. This will not only provide you with an adventurous experience but also allow you to witness the beauty of nature up close.
By Cycling: If you're an adventure enthusiast and love cycling, then cycling your way to Bhimtal from nearby places like Nainital can be an excellent option. You'll get to enjoy the scenic route along with some physical exercise.
In conclusion, there are various options available for reaching Bhimtal that cater to different preferences and budgets. Choose the one that suits your requirements best and enjoy your trip!
Weather of Bhimtal
Extreme WintersMild Winters
Hot + Dry
Hot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantBhimtal, a small town located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, experiences a subtropical highland climate. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, which makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The weather of Bhimtal is pleasant and moderate throughout the year; however, the best time to visit Bhimtal is from March to June and from September to November.
During summers, the temperature in Bhimtal ranges from 15°C to 28°C. This is the perfect time to explore the natural beauty of this place. The blooming flowers, clear skies, and chirping birds make the surroundings more serene and peaceful.
Monsoons in Bhimtal start from July and extend till September. During this period, the town receives heavy rainfall, which can make traveling difficult at times. However, if you love rain and want to witness the lush greenery of this place, monsoon can be a good time to visit.
Winters in Bhimtal start from December and last till February. The temperature during winters can drop down to 2°C or even below. This season brings snowfall in nearby areas as well as cold winds that make traveling difficult.
In conclusion, March to June and September to November are the best months to visit Bhimtal due to pleasant weather conditions and clear skies that make it easier for travelers to explore its natural beauty.
Places to Visit in Bhimtal
Bhimtal Lake: Bhimtal is named after the famous Bhimtal Lake, which is one of the largest lakes in Nainital district. It is surrounded by lush green hills and provides a scenic view to visitors. Boating and fishing are popular activities here.
Hanuman Garhi: Hanuman Garhi is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, situated atop a hill in Bhimtal. It offers a panoramic view of the entire town and lake.
Butterfly Museum: Butterfly Museum is a unique museum that showcases various species of butterflies, moths, insects, and other wildlife found in the region. It also has a research lab and library for enthusiasts.
Victoria Dam: Victoria Dam is an old British-era dam built on the river Kalsa in 1888. It supplies water to nearby towns and villages and provides an excellent picnic spot for tourists.
Hidimba Parvat: Hidimba Parvat is a beautiful hill that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range from its summit. It is also home to several temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Karkotaka Temple: Karkotaka Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to the serpent god, Karkotaka Nag, situated on the banks of Sattal Lake. The temple has intricate carvings and murals depicting various legends related to serpents.
Sattal Lake: Sattal Lake is a group of seven interconnected freshwater lakes located in close proximity to Bhimtal. It is an ideal location for bird watching, trekking, camping, and boating.
Garg Parvat: Garg Parvat is another beautiful hill that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It has several temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Saraswati.
Naukuchiatal Lake: Naukuchiatal Lake is another beautiful lake located close to Bhimtal with nine corners or "naukuch" (hence the name). Boating, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing are some popular activities here.
Pine Rivera Adventure Park: Pine Rivera Adventure Park offers various adventure activities such as rappelling, rock climbing, zip-lining, trekking, camping, etc., amidst lush green pine forests near Bhimtal.
Note: All descriptions are written from a tourist point of view based on online research data only as I am an AI Language model without any personal travel experience or knowledge about places mentioned above
Adventures Activities
Romantic Places
Relaxing Retreats
Hilly Regions
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Bhimtal
Best areas for accommodation in Bhimtal
If you are planning to visit Bhimtal, a beautiful town in Uttarakhand, you must be wondering about the best areas for accommodation. Bhimtal has several areas that are suitable for tourists to stay in, depending on their preferences.
Bhimtal Lake: This area is the most popular among tourists as it offers a stunning view of the lake and is surrounded by lush green hills. There are several hotels and resorts here that offer comfortable accommodation and modern amenities.
Naukuchiatal: This area is located close to Bhimtal and is known for its serene surroundings. It is an ideal place for those who want to escape the hustle-bustle of city life. The area has several budget hotels and guesthouses.
Sattal: Sattal is another popular area near Bhimtal that offers breathtaking views of seven interconnected lakes. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and bird watchers. There are several resorts and homestays here that offer comfortable accommodation.
Here are three properties for accommodation in Bhimtal:
The Fern Hillside Resort: This luxury resort is located in Bhimtal Lake area and offers stunning views of the lake. The rooms are spacious, well-furnished, and equipped with modern amenities like air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, tea/coffee maker, etc.
Hotel Pine Crest: This budget hotel is located in Naukuchiatal area and offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel also features an in-house restaurant that serves delicious Indian cuisine.
Zostel Bhimtal: This hostel is located in Sattal area and offers budget-friendly accommodation to backpackers and solo travelers. The hostel features dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds as well as private rooms. It also has a common room where guests can relax, play games, or interact with fellow travelers.
Overall, Bhimtal has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you want luxury or budget-friendly stay or prefer staying close to nature, there's something for everyone here!
Shopping in Bhimtal
Bhimtal, a picturesque town nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, offers a unique shopping experience for tourists. The town is known for its vibrant local markets that offer a range of authentic products, including handicrafts, souvenirs, and local produce. However, it is important to know what to buy and what to avoid while shopping in Bhimtal.
Things to Buy
- Handicrafts: Bhimtal is popular for its handmade wooden items such as toys, utensils, and decorative pieces.
- Local Produce: The town offers fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, and honey.
- Woolen Garments: Bhimtal offers an array of woolen garments such as shawls and sweaters that are handmade by the locals.
- Tea: The town boasts of tea gardens that produce some of the finest tea varieties.
Markets to Visit
- Bhowali Market: Located near Bhimtal, this market offers a range of handicrafts made by the locals.
- Mallital Market: This bustling market is located near Nainital and offers local produce and clothing items.
- Tibetan Market: This market located near Tallital is known for its Tibetan jewelry and handicrafts.
What to Avoid
- Counterfeit Products: Tourists need to be cautious while buying branded products from street vendors as they may be counterfeit.
- Overpriced Items: Tourists should bargain while buying items from local markets as they tend to overprice their products for tourists.
- Cheap Electronics: Tourists should avoid buying cheap electronics from street vendors as they may not function properly.
- Animal Products: It is illegal to buy animal products such as ivory or fur in India. Tourists should avoid any shops selling such items.
In conclusion, shopping in Bhimtal can be an exciting experience if you know what to buy and where to shop. The town's authentic products offer tourists an opportunity to take home a piece of Kumaon's rich culture.
Nightlife in Bhimtal
Bhimtal, situated in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India, is a popular tourist destination known for its serene natural beauty and pristine lake. However, the town also offers a vibrant nightlife that attracts visitors from all over the world. With a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from, there is never a dull moment in Bhimtal after sunset.
For those looking to spend the night out in Bhimtal, there are several options available. Here are three top recommendations:
The Pine Crest: A popular bar and restaurant located near the Bhimtal lake. The Pine Crest offers a wide range of drinks and delicious food items to choose from. The ambiance is perfect for spending an evening with friends or family.
Club Mahindra: This resort offers guests the opportunity to indulge in various activities such as karaoke nights, bonfires, and live music events. It's the perfect place for those who want to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Himalayan View Retreat: This hotel offers guests breathtaking views of the Himalayas while enjoying tasty food and drinks at their restaurant. They also offer live music events on weekends that attract visitors from all over.
In conclusion, Bhimtal has a lot to offer when it comes to nightlife. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet dinner by the lake or dance the night away at one of the local clubs, there is something for everyone here. So if you're planning a trip to Bhimtal anytime soon, be sure to add these places to your itinerary!
Outdoor Activities in Bhimtal
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Bhimtal has a lot to offer. The town is nestled in the midst of the beautiful Kumaon hills and is surrounded by forests, lakes and mountains, which make it a perfect destination for adventure seekers. There are several activities that you can engage in to explore the natural beauty of the place.
Trekking is one of the most popular activities in Bhimtal. There are several trails that you can take to explore the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the popular treks include Nainital-Bhimtal trek, Bhimtal-Hanuman Garhi trek, and Bhimtal-Karkotak trek.
Boating is another must-do activity when in Bhimtal. The town's main attraction is its beautiful lake, which offers a serene boating experience. You can rent a boat and take a leisurely ride while enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding hills.
Paragliding is an activity for those who want to experience an adrenaline rush. You can take off from nearby hills and soar high in the sky while enjoying panoramic views of the valley below.
Apart from these activities, there are several other options like camping, fishing, bird watching and nature walks that you can indulge in during your stay in Bhimtal. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventurous trip to this beautiful hill station!
Festivals and Events in Bhimtal
Festivals and events in Bhimtal are an integral part of the town's culture and tradition. They provide an opportunity for locals and tourists to come together and celebrate, making the town a vibrant and festive destination throughout the year. From religious festivals to cultural events, there is always something to look forward to in Bhimtal. Here are some of the most popular festivals and events in Bhimtal:
Nanda Devi Mela (September): This is one of the most significant religious festivals in Bhimtal, celebrated in honor of Goddess Nanda Devi. The festival involves colorful processions, devotional songs, and traditional dances.
Bikhauti Mela (April): This is another important religious festival that marks the victory of Lord Shiva over demon Bhasmasur. The festival includes processions, folk music, dance performances, and a fair.
Holi (March): Like everywhere else in India, Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Bhimtal. People smear each other with colored powder or water, sing Holi songs, and enjoy sweets.
Uttarayani Fair (January): This is a popular winter fair that takes place every year in Bhimtal. The fair features cultural performances, stalls selling handicrafts and local delicacies, and various sports competitions.
Bhimtal Summer Festival (June): This is a week-long festival that celebrates the onset of summer season in Bhimtal. The festival includes various cultural programs like music concerts, dance performances, food fairs etc.
These festivals and events not only bring joy but also provide an insight into the rich culture and traditions of Bhimtal. They attract tourists from far and wide who come to experience the unique flavor of these celebrations.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Bhimtal
- Plan your trip around the festivals and events - Bhimtal hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Bhimtal Mahotsav and the Nanda Devi Fair. Make sure to check the dates of these events before planning your trip so that you can experience the local culture and traditions.
- Pack for all seasons - Bhimtal experiences different weather conditions throughout the year. Summers are pleasant, while winters can be quite chilly. Make sure to pack warm clothes if you're traveling during winter months, and comfortable shoes for walking around the town.
- Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations - While there are many popular tourist spots in Bhimtal, such as the Bhimtal Lake, there are also lesser-known destinations that are worth exploring. Consider visiting places like Hidimba Parvat or Karkotak Temple for a unique experience.
- Try local cuisine - Bhimtal is known for its delicious North Indian cuisine, with dishes like dal makhani and butter chicken being popular options. Make sure to try out some of these dishes at local restaurants or street food vendors for an authentic taste of the region.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions - As with any travel destination, it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions while in Bhimtal. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, remove your shoes before entering temples, and always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals. By being respectful, you'll have a more enjoyable trip while also showing appreciation for the local culture.
FAQs
What is Bhimtal?
Bhimtal is a picturesque town located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. It is named after Bhima, one of the Pandavas from the Indian epic Mahabharata. The town is known for its serene Bhimtal Lake, which is surrounded by lush green hills and offers various water activities.
How to reach Bhimtal?
The nearest airport to Bhimtal is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 58 km away. The Kathgodam railway station is the closest railhead to Bhimtal, which is about 22 km away. One can also reach Bhimtal by road from Delhi, which takes around 7 hours.
What are the popular tourist attractions in Bhimtal?
Apart from the Bhimtal Lake, other popular tourist attractions in Bhimtal include the Butterfly Research Centre, Victoria Dam, Hanuman Garhi temple, and Karkotak temple. One can also visit nearby places like Nainital, Sattal, and Mukteshwar.
What are some adventure activities one can do in Bhimtal?
Bhimtal offers various adventure activities like paragliding, trekking, boating, camping and angling. One can also enjoy nature walks and bird watching in the lush green forests surrounding the lake.
What are some good places to stay in Bhimtal?
There are various accommodation options available in Bhimtal ranging from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. Some of the popular ones include The Fern Hillside Resort, Pine Crest Inn & Cottages, Neelesh Inn - A Luxury Lake Resort and Country Inn -Bhimtal.
When is the best time to visit Bhimtal?
The best time to visit Bhimtal is between March to June when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. However, one can also visit during September to November when the monsoon season ends and winters begin.
Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for tourists visiting Bhimtal?
Yes. Tourists visiting Uttarakhand need to follow certain guidelines as per government directives such as wearing masks in public places and maintaining social distancing norms. It's also mandatory for tourists to carry a negative RT-PCR test report not older than 72 hours or proof of complete vaccination status while entering Uttarakhand.
