Discover Bhimtal: Kumaon's Serene Lake Town
Bhimtal lies in a verdant valley of the Kumaon Himalayas, just 22 km from Nainital, at an altitude of 1,370 metres. The town takes its name from the Mahabharata hero Bhima, who is said to have rested here during his exile, and the large Bhimtal Lake is attributed to his handiwork. The lake itself is considerably larger than Nainital's famous Naini Lake, yet far less crowded, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking quieter, more authentic hill experiences.
The Bhimtal Lake is the centrepiece of this small town. It measures approximately 1.67 km in length and 447 metres in breadth, with an average depth of 15–50 feet. In the middle of the lake sits a small island that houses an aquarium — the first and only island aquarium in India — making it a fascinating stop for families. The lake is surrounded by gentle hills covered with oak and rhododendron forests, and the reflections of the surrounding mountains in its still waters are simply breathtaking at dawn.
Bhimtal has emerged as a preferred destination for nature photographers, birders, and travellers seeking wellness retreats. The forests around Bhimtal are part of the Nainital Cantonment and Wildlife Sanctuary, harbouring leopards, civets, porcupines, and over 200 bird species. The area is especially rich in migratory waterfowl during winter months — tufted ducks, bar-headed geese, and brahminy ducks are commonly spotted.
The surrounding area includes several gems within easy reach: Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls (5 km), a picturesque cascade through dense forest; Saat Tal (21 km), a cluster of seven interconnected lakes that is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Kumaon; Naukuchiatal (4 km), the nine-cornered lake famous for its paragliding; and Sattal, a paradise for anglers with abundant mahseer fish. The drive from Bhimtal to any of these satellite lakes passes through spectacular mountain scenery.
Bhimtal is also famous for its handicrafts, particularly its carved wooden artefacts and hand-knitted wool products. The weekly market (held every Sunday) draws artisans from surrounding villages and is a wonderful place to pick up authentic Kumaoni souvenirs. The town's small but charming bazaar has several cafes serving local pahadi cuisine, including bal mithai (Kumaon's famous chocolate-coloured sweet made from roasted khoya), singori, and fresh mountain fruits.