Bhimtal is a small town in Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. This place is named after Bhima of Mahabharata. Bhimtal is known for Bhimtal Lake. At the banks of this lake, visitors can see Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple. It is believed that this was built by Bhima when he was visited this period during their exile. After Anglo Nepalese War this place came under the rule of Britishers.
Visitors can enjoy the beauty of this place. Climate is so pleasant throughout the year. Boating is one of the major attractions of this place. Other activities of this place are Paragliding, Rappelling, Trekking, and Angling. Fishing can be enjoyed here. Worth buying things of this place are Wood carvings and handmade candles. Unique designs of bead Jewellery can be seen here. Other shopping attractions of this place are carpets, statues, Garhwali Paintings.
What to see in Bhimtal:
Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that this was built by Bhima, one of the brothers of Pandavas. But present temple was built by Baz Bahadur with the help of Raja of Kumaon in 17th century. Baza Bahadur was the king of Chand dynasty.
Folk Culture Museum: In this museum information about rituals, traditional rites, stone implements is available. Major attractions of this place are reproduction of rock art, Photographs, artefacts. Other name of this museum is Lok Sanskriti Sangrahlaya.
Victoria Dam: It is located on Bhimtal Lake. On either side of the dam one can see beautiful flower gardens. Near to this , visitors can find Bhimeshwar Temple. Visitors can have a walk at huge forests. Height of the dam is 40 feet. Wild flowers used to decorate gorge. Thousands of the tourists come to this place every year.
Aquarium on the Island on Bhimtal: Bhimtal Lake has an Island. Earlier one restaurant located in this island. Now it was closed due to pollution reasons. At present aquarium was created in that place. Fishes of the aquarium brought from Mexico, South Africa and China.
What to see around Bhimtal:
Hanuman Garhi: It is located in Nainital of Tallital which is located 21kms away from the town. Main deity of this temple is Lord Hanuman. Sun set over Himalayan can be seen from this place.
Hidimba Parvat: It is located 5kms away from Bhimtal. This place is named after Hidimbi who was the demon wife of Bhima (one of the Pandavas). Vankhandi Maharaj developed refuge for wild animals. He was a monk and an environmentalist.
Nag Temple: During Rishi Panchami thousands of devotees come to this place. In Uttarakand this is one of the Nag Temples. It is located 2kms from Bhimtal.
Sat Tal: It is located 14kms away from the town. This is compared with Westmoreland area of England. Hill near this lake is known as Hidimba Parvat.
Nal Damyanti Tal: It is natural and most sacred lake which is located 2kms away from the town. It is believed that King Nal lost his palace into this lake.
Getting to Bhimtal: Bhimtal is well connected with road and railways. From Kathgodam, Delhi private and government run buses are available to reach Bhimtal. From Hyderabad, Agra, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, Delhi etc trains come to this place. Nearest airport is located at Pantnagar which is 56kms away from the town.
Getting around Bhimtal: Dollies, Cycle rickshaws are available to visit the place of Bhimtal. Private Taxis are available to visit the surrounding places of Bhimtal.
Best time to visit Bhimtal: Best time to visit Bhimtal is between March to June and between September to December.
Where to stay in Bhimtal: Good accommodations are available to stay in Bhimtal including luxury hotels. Near Satvik Sadan, midrange hotels are available.
Where to eat in Bhimtal: Plenty of eating options in Bhimtal. Indian, Italian, Chinese, Continental cuisines are available.