Bhimtal – picturesque town of India

Bhimtal is a small town situated in the north part of Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) state in the northern region of India. Being located at an altitude of 1,371 km above sea level amongst the Kumaon hills, Bhimtal is just 23 km from Nainital. In Bhimtal, the weather is alpine. Summers are mild and the winters are cold.

History:
The history of this small town is vague. The town obtained its name from one of the legendary personalities and central character, called Bhim of the great Indian epic, Mahabharata.

The lake at Bhimtal is surrounded by peaceful, lush green meadows and hills. This picturesque locale pulls lots of tourists towards it. The lake is also the major attraction in Bhimtal. Being one of the largest lakes in Nainital district, this lake offers a good scope for water sports to the travelers. A beautiful island along with a restaurant is situated in the middle of the lake. Tourists can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and the luxuriant surroundings from this island. Adventurous travelers can enjoy trekking though the quiet forest around this lake. The lake has a large dam, called Victorian dam on one side. Terraced flower gardens can be seen on either side.

Bhimtal is famous for its lovely dappled paths decorated with dog rose and wild raspberry. Tourists can enjoy their vacation staying in the farmhouses, which are set among the terraced fields and the citrus tree laden with fruits. Travelers should not miss the folk culture museum in Bhimtal. It houses rare collections of artifacts and information on the hill districts of the Uttarakhand or Uttaranchal state in India. It also has a sizable collection of reproductions and photographs of rock art.

Nearly four km away from Bhimtal, tourists can see Naukuchiatal lake. This lake has nine corners. Tourists can enjoy the quiet verdant environment around this lake. Also this tree-fringed lake is ideal for boating. Sat Tal (Seven lake), a cluster of seven lakes is situated seven km away from Bhimtal. Here travelers can have fun boating and fishing. These lakes have densely wooded hills and little creeks along their shores. This picturesque view is a perennial attraction to the tourists. Spiritual travelers should visit the Godhakhel temple which is three km away from Bhimtal.

The nearest airport to this town is at Pant Nagar (55 km) and the nearest railway station is at Kathgodam (23 km). This town is well connected with Nainital and Kathgodam by roads. Tourists can hire taxis from Nainital and Kathgodam. The best times to visit this town, is from mid-April till mid-July and from mid-September to October. Altogether Bhimtal offers tourists a peaceful vacation and facilities for water sports.