Introduction

A trip to Nainital is literally incomplete without a visit to the majestic Bhimtal Lake, which apparently is named after Bhima of the five Pandavas. Recorded as the largest lake in Nainital district and the second largest in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Bhimtal rests poetically flanked by the serene Kumaon hills. Situated 22 kilometers (13.6 miles) away from Nainital, Bhimtal rests at an altitude of 1370 meters (4495 feet) and is a major tourist attraction in the district. What makes Bhimtal more fascinating is the existence of a small island (91 meters from the shore) right in the middle of this multifarious fish-filled lake. This island - the erstwhile resting ground for a restaurant that was the toast of tourists who would flock to grub at a most unusual and beautiful eating joint - is now home to a grand island aquarium. This transformation, an initiative by the Nainital Lake Development Authority, is the result of an uncontrollable dumping of leftovers by tourists that was choking the lake and its inhabitants. Today, the aquarium plays host to a large variety of aquatic life from places like South Africa, Mexico and even China and easily compensates as an equally popular tourist attraction.

Besides aquatic life, the area also abounds in flora and fauna. You can catch sight of such exotic species of birds as the emerald dove, rufous-bellied bulbul, wall creeper, tawny fish owl and Himalayan speckled piculet, which so to say, can be a birdwatcher’s delight. Boating, kayaking and angling also make up for other popular activities here, although you are expected to carry along your own fishing rod and need to collect a permit from the local authority. A walk towards the 40 feet high Victorian Dam with terraced flower gardens on either side can particularly rejuvenate your mind. Other places of tourist interest are the Bhimeshwara Temple, the Godhakhal Temple and the Museum of Folk Culture (Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya).

Just a little away from Bhimtal Lake (about 4 kilometers or 2.4 miles), calmly sleeps Naukuchiatal, the nine-cornered lake. Naukuchiatal, the deepest lake around, attracts a large group of migratory birds every year just before autumn and offers a spectacular display for bird watchers in the endless azure expanse. This enchanting lake is rhythmically complemented with a pristine blanket of green slopes and forests that provide the perfect setting for your rendezvous with nature. And if you wish to take along a teaser of nature’s romance with Naukuchiatal, don’t forget to buy some fruits and jams from one of its many orchards. Here you can indulge in some serious adventure sports like paragliding, parasailing, horse riding and trekking, besides just boating in the lake.

Another interesting lake near Bhimtal is Sattal (about 12 kilometers or 74 miles away), which literally means seven lakes because that’s what it is actually – a group of seven smaller lakes. These seven lakes converge at a point in the Mehragaon Valley to form the Sattal Lake, which incidentally is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers due to its picture-perfect countenance. Bird watching, boating and simply taking languid nature walks can be best enjoyed here.

Once you are done with your fill of lakes, birds and adventure sports, you have to sample a bit of the local flavor. That’s when you head over to Bhowali, a major export centre for apples, apricot, plums, pears and peaches besides being a scenic extravaganza. Here, you can visit the Golu Devta Temple in nearby Ghorakhal, which houses the local deity. This temple is one of the most famous places that Bhowali can boast of.

Special Attributes

The island aquarium on Bhimtal Lake is the single-most uniquely charming attraction here. The scenic beauty of Bhimtal and the serenity engulfing it have a mesmerizing effect on anyone who visits the place.

Nuisance

None. The place is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in comfortable outfits

Connectivity

Buses, Taxis and Auto Rickshaws

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

Like much of the Kumaon region, Bhimtal too has an Alpine weather Bhimtal, with mild summers and really cold winters, characterized by less exposure to the sun with chilly winds around the lake site

Avoidable Season

August, December, January and February

Facilities

Boating, Fishing, Life Jackets, Paragliding chutes, kayaks

Things Not Allowed

No such restrictions.

Tip

Gear up for a busy day and embark as early as possible in the morning to indulge in most of the activities available in Bhimtal and around it. Life jacket is mandatory. Yacht can be booked from the boat club.

Type of site

Activity