Nestled serenely in the Kumaon hills, away from the hustle-bustle of Nainital tourists, Bhimtaal is a “must do” on the itinerary for the region. For those who like a dose of historical relevance, Bhimtal offers legendary tales from the days of Mahabharata. The Bhimtal Lake, named after the mighty Pandava, Bhima, houses an island in the middle and a much revered temple on its banks. A prevalent ritual in the hills, many devotees tie bells in the temple, which is said to be over 300 years old.
As one leaves the lake and heads upto the more elusive villages, spectacular scenery emerges. The Kumaon hills tower over the lake and are home to many shy villages, untouched by the clamour of the towns. Many religious treks are suggested by the locals. The meandering hills are abundant with countless trails for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Having been the summer capital for the British for a long time, Nainital had an immense spill-over of charming colonial architecture. A perfect getaway for many, Bhimtaal is now slowly opening to visitors and one can see a definite upsurge in tourists choosing to stay in this alluring little town rather than the more popular destinations of Kumaon.
The other places to visit from Bhimtal are Naukuchiyataal, Nanda Devi, Nainital and Almora.
Practical Information
- Season – April to October is the best time to visit Bhimtal, though the winters have their own misty charm. The winter seasons are extremely cold as the whole of North India is plunged into the freezing winds from snowy mountains.
- Single/ Female Travellers – One can avoid travelling late in the evening, as the sun sets early. The distances are seemingly long in the hills, so one needs to plan time accordingly.
- Connectivity – Bhimtal is about 23 kilometres from Nainital. Plenty of buses and cabs ply between the towns. Nainital is further connected by rail (Kaatgodam) and road.
- Not to miss – A little island in the middle of the lake is a charming spot to just imbibe the nature. The small villages overlooking the lake as you head up to the pristine villages in the hills.