Bhimtal, Nainital
Bhimtal, Nainital is one of the famous lake towns of the Kumaon region. Bhimtal lake is situated at an altitude of 1370 meters above sea level. Even older than Nainital city, This place is named after the legendary character Bhima of Mahabharata. This place offers majestic natural beauty to its visitors.
The major attraction of this place is a small island situated in the middle of the lake, which also houses a large aquarium. This place beckons with extraordinary views and vistas of Mother Nature and the place is a paradise for nature lovers. The pristine blue lake and several temples across the mountains make it one of the best places to visit for those who want to relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the city yet stay close to it.
Historical significance of Bhimtal, Nainital
After the Anglo-Nepalese War, also known as the Gurkha War of 1814–1816, This place came under British rule. There are still then-used pedestrian routes, connecting Kathgodam and other Kumaoni regions. These routes also lead to Tibet and Nepal and are believed to be part of the ancient Silk Road.
The famous Shiva temple situated on the banks of Bhimtal Lake is believed to have been built by Baj Bahadur, the king of Kumaon and ruler of the Chand dynasty, in the 17th century AD.
Mythological significance of Bhimtal
Bhimtal was earlier known as “Bhimsarovar Lake” after the famous character Bhima of Mahabharata. According to legend, This place was the feeding ground of the Pandavas, where they used to go during their exile. The lake is the result of Bhima striking the ground with his ‘Gada’ to develop a source of water to quench his thirst. Hence the Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple was built here as a tribute to Bhima.
Festivities in Bhimtal
July is a good month if you want to be a part of the festivals and carnivals in This place. Harela festival is celebrated here on 16th July which is a celebration of a good harvest. At the fair, cultural performances and a bike and car show at the Death Well are some of the festival activities. This festival throws light on the cultural and historical importance of This place and brings you very close to the life of the local people.
Things to do at Bhimtal
Boating and Fishing
One of the primary activities that attract a large number of tourists is boating and fishing. You can go fishing in these lakes and take your fish back home for a delicious meal. This place is home to three beautiful lakes – Bhimtal Lake, Sattal Lake, and Naukuchiatal Lake. The most magical experience is provided by Bhimtal Lake wherein you can visit the island situated in the middle of the lake. The view is quite picturesque and provides a vivid experience to its visitors.
Trekking and Hiking
This place is surrounded by thick green forests on all sides, which provide a wonderful place for trekking and hiking. There are both long and short trails in the mountains of This place. You can also spot various migratory and resident birds on these mountains while trekking.
Dirt Biking and Paragliding
Soar high over the mountains and forests of Bhimtal while paragliding if you want to experience a bird’s-eye view of the valley. Naukuchiatal is a place famous for activities like paragliding and dirt biking, which is just 4 km from This place. If you want to feel the adrenaline running through your veins, then dirt biking is the game for you. Explore the beautiful yet adventurous mountains from a new angle and check any one of these adventure sports off your list.
Stargazing and Camping
This is especially for those who live in Delhi or other metro cities, are full of pollution, and have not seen a clear sky in ages. Nestled amidst the lush green forests of the mountain range of This place, the camp offers an extraordinary experience to tourists and campers. You can enjoy gazing at the sky full of stars and freshen up in the natural fresh air provided by this place.
Best time to visit Bhimtal
Bhimtal welcomes its tourists at almost all times of the year. This place fully blooms in the months of March, April, and May, and is covered with snow in October, November, and December month. these are the best months to enjoy in Bhimtal.
How To Reach
By Air: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport which is 70 km away. You can travel to This place via NH 109 by private or shared taxi from the airport.
The nearest railway station to Bhimtal is Kathgodam Railway Station which is 35 km away.
You can book private or shared taxis from the station to reach Bhimtal. Buses also ply from the railway station to Bhimtal.
Bhimtal is just 22 km from Nainital city. You can drive yourself to This place or hire a taxi cab. There is a regular bus service from Bhimtal to Nainital and vice versa.
NOTE:- In this article, we cover all the important details regarding Bhimtal like the best time to visit and Activities you can do in Bhimtal, Still If you have any other queries you can visit the gov official website of Uttarakhand Tourism. And If you want to know the best places to visit in Uttarakhand then visit our website uttarakhandeyes.com.
