Bhimtal should be on your winter travel wishlist; here’s why

As the name suggests, Bhimtal, located in the state of Uttarakhand, is mostly known for its serene lakeside setting. This small tourist town is a calmer version of Nainital. If you feel that Nainital is too mainstream and you are in the mood for something offbeat, head to Bhimtal.

Just like Nainital, Bhimtal is also a tourist destination, mainly known for the tranquil freshwater lake and the historic Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple. People visit this hill town for the temple and pay their respects to the deity and the lake. However, these are not the only things to do in Bhimtal. For those interested in nature and adventure, Bhimtal is one of the best places in Uttarakhand.

The hill town boasts a beautiful lake called Bhimtal. The lake gets its name from the legend that states that Bhima, one of the five Pandavas, visited this place during this years of exile and created this lake.

There is a lakeside Shiva temple called Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple which is believed to have been built by Bhima. He dedicated the temple to the Hindu deity Shiva and for as long as one can remember, this place has been a centre of pilgrimage for many believers.

Boating is a fun activity that you can do while visiting the lake. The lake is serene and the surrounding lush greenery and the distant hills add to the relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Bhimtal is very scenic to begin with. There is no dearth of photo opportunities when at the lake Whether you are taking selfies or clicking the surroundings, one thing is for sure, the lake offers stunning views and background.

Bhimtal is one of those hill destinations that enjoys mild climate during the summer days and bearable cold chill during the winters. Overall, the climate is pretty enjoyable throughout the years and that’s also one of the reasons why visitors love to visit this quaint town and just explore the outdoors.

Bhimtal is just 24 km away from the crowded Nainital. Even when the distance is so less, the difference in these two destinations is quite big in terms of tranquillity. Bhimtal provides a peaceful ambiance, perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat.

The forests that surround Bhimtal are home to diverse bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. It’s common to see several species of birds on your drive to Bhimtal.

The town has a rich Kumaoni cultural heritage. Visit the nearby villages to see the local traditions and customs, and to experience traditional Kumaoni cuisine too.

If you are visiting Bhimtal, you are very close to Nainital (24 km), Sattal (14 km) and Pangot (40 km). With these destinations located nearby, if you feel the need to take a break from the town for a change of scenery, you can simply take these short and fun drives.

Bhimtal is more than just its lake and temples. There’s paragliding too! Yes, Bhimtal is one of the few destinations in the region where you can enjoy paragliding. The view from up top is pretty good, we hear.