Bhimtal -most prominent attraction being the ‘Bhimtal Lake’
Situated 22 kilometers from Nainital, at an altitude of 1,370 metres, Bhimtal is a small town in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. It is named after Bhim, one of the five Pandavas mentioned in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. With its intimate association with history and interesting tourist spots, Bhimtal is a popular tourist destination, with the most prominent attraction being the ‘Bhimtal Lake’, which is larger than the famous Naini Lake. The emerald green waters of the Bhimtal Lake mirror the lovely greenery of the surrounding hills and conjure a striking view. Spread over a vast area, Bhimtal Lake is home to a rich diversity of aquatic life.
During the winter months, the lake is visited by migratory birds. Boat cruises are an excellent way to soak in the beauty of the place. Located on the banks of the lake is the famous Bhimeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Bhim actually constructed the temple himself. However, the temple was reconstructed in the 17th century by Baz Bahadur of the Chand Dynasty.
Close to the temple lies a small hill called the Garg Parvat, which is the source of the Gargi River. Another famous spot in Bhimtal is the hill of Karkotaka, known for its ‘Nag Temple’, visited by devotees on the auspicious day of Rishi Panchami, to seek the blessings of ‘Nag Karkotaka Maharaj’. About five kilometres from Bhimtal is a small hill known as ‘Hidimba Parvat’, named after Bhim’s wife, Hidimba. Today, the hill houses a beautiful wildlife sanctuary, known as Vankhandi Ashram. Within a range of two kilometres from Bhimtal, lies a small natural lake called and locals consider this place to be sacred. Apart from that, the Nal-Damyanti Tal is also known for being a popular picnic spot
Hotspots of Bhimtal
Garg Parvat is an immaculate hillock situated close Bhimeshwar temple which is adored by the Hindus.
Nal Damyanti Tal is a small natural lake located about 2 km from Bhimtal. This placid lake is besieged with natural foliage.
A beautiful hill, located just 5 km from Bhimtal gets its name from the Hidimba, wife of Bhima of Mahabharata.
A boat ride in Bhimtal Lake to the island in the middle of it is quite a ride. But lays ahead is even more awe-inspiring.
Bhimtal is a picturesque lake located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Named after the legendary Bhima of Mahabharata.
Named after the powerful Mahabharata character Bhim, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple is situated at Bhimtal.
Victoria dam is located at one end of Bhimtal Lake and has terraced flower gardens that are placed on either side of the dam.
Hanuman Garhi is located some 3.5 kms from the Tallital or South End bus stop, at an altitude of 6,401 ft above sea level.
Named after a mythical cobra, Karkotaka hills are quite well known for the Nag Temple