Bhimtal

Bhimtal is a lake town adjoining the popular hill station Nainital in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Bhimtal is located at an elevation of 4706 meters above sea level. It is a mesmerizing destination soaked in history. The majestic town is named after Bhima- one of the Pandava brothers of Mahabharatha. It is believed that during their exile Pandavas visited this area to quench their thirst but were unable to find water, so Bhima- the strongest of all Pandavas, decided to hit the ground with his Gada and created an opening for underground water, and eventually, Bhimtal lake was formed. Bhimtal is said to be older than Nainital as its road that is connected to Kumaon Hills, Kathgodam, Nepal, and Tibet is believed to be a part of the world-famous and ancient Silk Route.

The C-shaped Bhimtal Lake, is the largest lake in the Kumaon region, which has a small island at its center. The beautiful big aquarium on the island is a picturesque spot that is visited by many tourists. At the end of the lake is the Victorian Dam which was built by Britishers in the 19th century. The dam is surrounded by a terraced flower garden creating a panoramic view for the viewers. There is an ancient Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple on the banks of Bhimtal Lake dedicated to Lord Shiva. Behind the temple is Garg Parvat, which is the source of the Gargi River (locally known as Gola Nadi).

Unlike Nainital, Bhimtal is an unpopulated and pollution-free town, where you can find peace and tranquility. One can explore the various attractions of the town along with indulging in the numerous adventure activities that Bhimtal offers to its visitors.

How to Reach Bhimtal:

Located on the Kathgodam- Naukuchiatal road, Bhimtal is situated at a distance of 22 km from Nainital and 9.5 km from Bhowali. It is easily connected by motorable roads with all the nearby destinations of Uttarakhand.

Bhimtal by Air

The nearest airport to reach Bhimtal is Pantnagar Airport which is at a distance of about 54km. You can hire a taxi/ cab from the airport to reach Bhimtal.

• Regular flights of Indigo, Air India, Spicejet operate between New Delhi and Pantnagar.
• Time taken by the fastest flight is: 2h 15m approx
• Regular flights of Air India operate between Mumbai and Pantnagar.
• Time taken by the fastest flight is: 7h approx

Bhimtal by Rail

The nearest railway station to reach Bhimtal is Kathgodam Railway Station which is at a distance of 20km approx. Cab/ Taxi is easily available from the station to reach Bhimtal.

• Regular trains from New Delhi to Kathgodam are Ndls- Kgm Shatabdi Express, Ranikhet Express, Uttranchal Sampark Kranti Express, etc
• Regular train from Mumbai to Kathgodam is BDTS- RMR Weekly SF Express, etc

Bhimtal by Road

Bhimtal is situated on NH-109 which runs in Uttarakhand connecting the entire Kumaon region to the state and the country. The nearest bus stand to reach Bhimtal is the Nainital Bus stand (20 km approx). Bhimtal is well connected by road to the various cities of the Kumaon region.

Best time to visit to Bhimtal

The weather during Summers (March to June) and Winters (October to February) in Bhimtal remains pleasant and soothing, making it the best time to visit Bhimtal.