Bhimtal: A Picturesque Hill Station in Kumaon, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Bhimtal is a hill station teeming with natural beauty and vistas. With its picturesque lake, lush greenery, and pleasant weather, Bhimtal is a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand.
Bhimtal: An Overview
Bhimtal is a small hill station located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, close to Nainital. It is 22 km away from Nainital and is known for its serene atmosphere and tranquil environment. Bhimtal is also known for its beautiful lake, which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the region.
The lake is named after Bhim, one of the five Pandavas from the Mahabharata. According to legend, Bhim stopped at Bhimtal and dug a lake here. The lake has a small island in the middle, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge.
Things to Do in Bhimtal
Being a popular tourist destination, Bhimtal has plenty of activities and attractions to offer. Here are some of the top things to do in Bhimtal:
- Boating – Enjoy a delightful boat ride on the lake and explore the nearby islands.
- Trekking – Take a trek to nearby spots and explore the beautiful countryside.
- Nature Walks – Go on a nature walk and admire the stunning natural beauty of Bhimtal.
- Shopping – Visit the local markets and buy some souvenirs as a reminder of your trip.
- bird watching – The lake is home to many species of birds, so don’t forget to bring your binoculars and bird watching book.
- Adventure Sports – Indulge in some adventure sports such as paragliding, rappelling, and rock climbing.
Places to Visit in Bhimtal
Apart from the lake, Bhimtal has plenty of other attractions that are worth checking out. Here are some of the best places to visit in Bhimtal:
- Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple – Located on the banks of the lake, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Nal Damyanti Tal – This is a small lake located in the Bhimtal region.
- Sat Tal – This is a cluster of seven lakes located close to Bhimtal.
- Hanuman Garhi – Home to a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Mukteshwar – Located at an altitude of 2,285 meters, this is a beautiful hill station near Bhimtal.
Best Time to Visit Bhimtal
The best time to visit Bhimtal is from October to June. The weather during this period is pleasant and perfect for exploring the attractions of the region.
How to Reach Bhimtal
- By Air – The nearest airport to Bhimtal is Pantnagar Airport, which is located at a distance of 56 km.
- By Train – Kathgodam Railway Station is the closest railway station to Bhimtal and is located at a distance of 23 km.
- By Road – Bhimtal is well connected to major cities and towns via a network of roads and highways. There are regular bus services from cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Nainital to Bhimtal.
Conclusion
Bhimtal is a stunning hill station located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature or thrilling activities to indulge in, Bhimtal has something for everyone. With its serene lake, lush surroundings, and plethora of attractions, Bhimtal promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Plan your visit to this picturesque hill station and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing charm of Bhimtal.