Bhimtal is a town situated at a distance of 22kms from Nainital district of Uttarakhand.It is the largest lake in the district of Nainital, Bhimtal lake covers an area of 1701 metres by 265 metres. The lake known for its magnificent majesty is situated at an altitude of 1371.6 metres above sea level. Bhimtal is an ancient place named after Bhima of Mahabharata. Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple, an old Shiva temple in the bank of Bhimtal lake, is believed to have been built when Bhima visited the place during the banishment (vanvas) period of pandavas.Bhimtal is older than nearby Nainital as the city of Nainital is just 150-160 years old. But Bhimtal has been a stoppage for the travellers of the region from hills to plains or vise versa for a long time. The old pedesterial road is still in use here and this road connects nearby Kathgodam to all Kumaun region and even to Nepal and Tibet.

EXCURSIONS

Sat Tal:
Originally a cluster of seven lakes, now reduced to five (since two have dried up), Sat Tal (21 km from Nainital) has all it takes to veil the place in a kind of mystique-densely wooded hills, roads that glide under a canopy of gossamer green oak trees, pines and dark brooding firs, little creeks along the shores of the lakes and boat rides on the placid waters.

Naukutchia Tal: 
24 km from Nainital, it is the deepest and by far the most picturesque lake in the Kumaon region and derives its name from the nine corners which came together to form it. It is a tranquil, pleasant expanse of water, reflected green by the low, wooded hills cradling it and surrounded by 70 acres of predominantly oak forests which, after the monsoons, show the innumerable hues of the Himalayan forest. 

Ramgarh:
25 kms  from Nainital, it is a picturesque hamlet in the heart of orchard land in the foothills of the Himalayas. Many writers and thinkers have been drawn to the beauty of Ramgarh and it is an ideal place for long walks, to let your creative juices flow or just unwind or introspect.    Click here for accommodation options.

Mukteshwar:
45 kms from Nainital, at 8000 ft, this is an idyllic sojourn in the lap of the mountains and rolling meadows. Surrounded by fruit orchards and thick coniferous forest it provides a majestic view of the Himalayas. It is popular for the century old Shiva Temple, Chauthijalli rock formations, Angora wool sheep farm, rejuvenating forest walks and enchanting sunsets.

ACCESSIBILITY

Rail: Nearest railhead is Kathgodam, 23 kms.
Road: 23 kms from Kathgodam, 22 kms. from Nainital and 11 km s from Bhowali. Regular bus service links Bhimtal with Kathgodam. Private taxies are available from Nainital, Bhowali & Haldwani.

 
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