Bhimtal is a charming town in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. It is named after Bhima, one of the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, who is said to have created the beautiful lake that is the main attraction of the town. Bhimtal lake is located at an altitude of 1370 meters above sea level and is about 22 kilometers from Nainital, the popular hill station. Bhimtal offers a peaceful and picturesque getaway for nature lovers, history buffs, adventure seekers, and bird watchers.
Bhimtal Lake: The Jewel of the Town
The Bhimtal Lake is the largest lake in the Kumaon region and covers an area of 48 hectares. It has a small island in the middle, which can be reached by boat. The island has an aquarium that houses various species of fish and aquatic animals. The lake also has a 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple, on its bank. The temple was built by Baz Bahadur, a king of the Chand dynasty, who ruled over Kumaon. The lake offers boating facilities and other water sports for visitors. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and forests, which provide a stunning backdrop for the serene water.
Other Attractions in and around Bhimtal
Bhimtal has many other places of interest for tourists, such as:
- Nal Damyanti Tal: This is a small natural lake about 2 km from Bhimtal. It is believed that the palace of King Nala, a character from Mahabharata, sank into this lake. It is considered sacred by the locals.
- Sattal: This is a group of seven interconnected lakes about 5 km from Bhimtal. The lakes are named after the seven sages of Hindu mythology: Bhrigu, Pulastya, Pulaha, Kratu, Atri, Vasistha, and Bharadwaja. The lakes are nestled among dense forests and are home to a variety of birds and wildlife.
- Hidimba Parvat: This is a hill about 2 km from Bhimtal, where Hidimba, the wife of Bhima, is said to have lived. The hill offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area and has a temple dedicated to Hidimba.
- Stargate Observatory: This is an observatory located about 3 km from Bhimtal Lake, where visitors can enjoy astronomy shows and workshops. The observatory has a telescope and other equipment to observe the night sky and learn about celestial objects.
Adventure Activities in Bhimtal
Bhimtal is not only a place for relaxation and sightseeing, but also for adventure and thrill. Some of the adventure activities that visitors can enjoy in Bhimtal are:
- Paragliding: Bhimtal is one of the best places for paragliding in Uttarakhand. Visitors can fly over the valley and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the lake and the hills. The paragliding spot is near the lake and can be reached by a short trek.
- Trekking: Bhimtal offers several trekking and hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the rich flora and fauna of the region and discover hidden waterfalls and caves along the way. Some of the popular trekking routes are from Bhimtal to Naukuchiatal, from Bhimtal to Sattal, and from Bhimtal to Hidimba Parvat.
- Camping: Bhimtal also has some camping sites where visitors can stay close to nature and enjoy bonfires and barbecues. One such site is Padampuri, a village about 30 minutes away from Bhimtal. The village is surrounded by forests and has a river flowing nearby.
How to Reach Bhimtal
Bhimtal is well connected by road, rail, and air to other parts of India. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (about 55 km away), which has regular flights from New Delhi. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (about 21 km away), which has trains from Delhi, Lucknow, Kolkata, and other cities. Buses and taxis are available from both the airport and the railway station to reach Bhimtal. Alternatively, visitors can also drive to Bhimtal from Delhi (about 300 km away) or other nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit Bhimtal
Bhimtal has a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from April to June and October to December. The summer months are ideal for boating, paragliding, and other outdoor activities. The winter months are perfect for bird watching, stargazing, and enjoying the snowfall. The monsoon months (July to September) are also beautiful, as the lake fills up and the greenery becomes more vibrant.
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Conclusion
Bhimtal is a hidden gem in the Himalayas that offers a blend of nature, culture, history, and adventure. It is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a tranquil and scenic vacation. Bhimtal has something for everyone, whether it is a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a solo trip. So, pack your bags and head to Bhimtal for an unforgettable experience.