Bhimtal is a place where time stops, and you start meeting yourself again. The simplicity of the mountains, the depth of the lakes and the moisture of the air will blow your mind away. Want to experience the tourist destinations and not just see them? Then, Bhimtal is the perfect place for you. Today, we will see the top places to visit in Bhimtal as a tourist who loves to explore nature in its rawest form!
Top Places To Visit In Bhimtal For Nature Lovers
From the serene lakes to the dense deodar forests, each place has a unique energy. You can listen to the chirping of birds while boating in the lake. Or else, you can watch the clouds touch the mountain tops. In this article, we will introduce you to 12 such places in Bhimtal. These places not only thrill every nature lover but will also fill them with a deep sense of peace. They are also special from the cultural, religious and historical point of view along with natural beauty. Now, let’s start exploring these Bhimtal visit places one by one!
1. Bhimtal Lake – A mirror in which the mountains look at themselves
Looking at Bhimtal Lake feels like someone has placed a piece of the sky on the ground. The surface of the lake is so calm and clear that even the mountains and clouds smile seeing their reflection in it. Bhimtal lake is a part of the Bhimtal hill station of Uttarakhand, India.
When the first light of the morning falls on the lake, it feels like nature is waking up. When you sit in a boat and go out in the middle of the lake, you won’t find silence but peaceful vibes. Coming here, you realize that the real journey is not outside, but inside.
Location: In the middle of Bhimtal town, around 22 km from Nainital
What to do?:
- Enjoy paddle boat and rowing boating
- Walk along the lake and do photography
- Go by boat to the island in the middle of the lake
- Capture the sunset
2. Victoria Dam – Where water does not just flow, it tells stories
Standing near the Victoria Dam and listening to the sound of falling water is a blissful experience for every tourist. The surrounding flower-filled gardens look as if nature has decorated itself with colors. Sitting here and quietly watching the waves of water, is like calming something within your mind as well. Victoria Dam does not just give you a view, but an experience. So, it is one of the best places to visit in Bhimtal.
Location: At one end of Bhimtal Lake, on the southern bank of the lake
What to do?:
- Spend quiet time in the gardens near the dam
- Meditate while listening to the chirping of birds
- Take photographs with colorful flowers
- You can also visit the temples built nearby
3. Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya – Where even the walls speak
This is not an ordinary museum, but a living saga that preserves the soul of Uttarakhand. Old utensils, traditional clothes, tools made of wood, and everything here reveals a hidden story. You can experience the culture, lifestyle, and many other things about the locals of Uttarakhand after visiting this place. So, it is one of the top visiting places in Bhimtal for every traveler.
Location: Near Victoria Dam, around 500 m from Bhimtal bazaar
What to do?:
- See Uttarakhandi costumes and folk art
- Study historical weapons and paintings
- Get an understanding of traditional culture
- Listen to museum stories from local guides
4. Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple – Where every bell becomes a prayer
This Shiva temple, located in the lap of the mountains, is not only deep from a religious point of view but also spiritually. As soon as you come here, a different kind of peace enters the heart. It is said that Bhim, one of the Pandavas, had built it.
When you stand there, it really feels that history is still breathing there. So, it automatically features in our Bhimtal best places to visit list.
Location: Near the lake, 200 meters from the main market of Bhimtal
What to do?:
- Worship Lord Shiva
- Admire the craftsmanship and antiquity of the temple
- Feel the peace in the flowing water near the temple
- Meditate in the religious atmosphere
5. Hidimba Parvat – Where the fragrance of divinity dwells in the forests
The air feels different while climbing this mountain, it’s cold, soothing, and refreshing for both the mind and body. There is no movement in the forests here, but it seems as if there is a dialogue with every tree. Institutions like ‘Vana Prasthalaya’ are trying to save these forests. Therefore, as a nature lover you must be careful and not try to harm any tree or plant here. Due to its scenic spots, it is Bhimtal’s sightseeing marvel!
Location: Located on the uphill trail, around 5 km from Bhimtal
What to do?:
- Go trekking to the top of the mountain
- Visit the botanical centre run by ‘Vana Prasthalaya’
- Identify rare birds and plants
- Do photography and birdwatching
6. Hanuman Garhi – Where the Sun himself bows down to God
Hanuman Garhi is a temple located approximately 6400 feet above the sea level. Ascend this height early in the morning. Witness the miracle when the first rays of the sun fall on the statue of Hanuman ji!
Here you do not just have darshan but coming here spreads some light inside you too. The view of the valley is such that you keep looking at it by putting down the camera. Therefore, while exploring the Bhimtal travel guide, you will definitely find this place mentioned in all of them.
Location: Around 4 km from Bhimtal, on Kathgodam road
What to do?:
- Visit the huge statue of Lord Hanuman
- Watch the sunrise and sunset from a height
- Ideal place for yoga and meditation
- Enjoy the panoramic view of the valley
7. Nala-Damayanti Lake – A love story that still flows in the water
Visiting this lake is not just a natural experience, it is an emotional journey. The story of King Nala and Queen Damyanti is associated with this place. If you look carefully, it seems as if the waves of the lake are repeating their story themselves.
Sitting here, time slows down, and the heart gets lost in some old memories. Looking for places to see at Bhimtal to refresh your mind and soul? Then, Nala-Damayanti Lake is the best place for you!
Location: 2 km from Bhimtal, near Jones Estate
What to do?:
- Take a peaceful walk near the reservoir
- Meditate and observe nature
- Learn facts related to the legend
- Observe birds and aquatic life
8. Pines Old Cemetery – Where silence speaks the deepest
This is an old cemetery from the British era. It is not scary but rather a place that makes you stop and wonder. The tall pines and the stone graves covered in mist, make you think about the uncertain nature of this life. The soul feels a different level of peace here. So, we couldn’t ignore it while compiling the list of the top places to visit in Bhimtal Uttarakhand.
Location: Around 3 km from Bhimtal, near Sattal road
What to do?:
- Visit British era tombs
- Spend time in the serene atmosphere
- Learn old stories and history
- Enjoy mysterious photography (especially black and white)
9. Naina Peak – Where you can shake hands with the clouds
When you reach this highest peak while trekking, it feels as if your hard work has rewarded you with the whole sky. The thrill of seeing the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas together amazes you. So, it is one of the most recommended Bhimtal local sightseeing spots for the tourists.
Location: Around 10 km from Nainital, around 25 km from Bhimtal
What to do?:
- Trek to the peak
- Get a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks
- Enjoy the sunset and sunrise
- Get close to nature on the forest trails
10. Bhimtal Island Aquarium – A small world, a big surprise
Bhimtal Island Aquarium is one of the best spots to see the exotic fishes. Going by boat to this island in the middle of the lake is a small adventure. Witnessing the colorful fishes there feels like stepping into a magical world. For children, it is like a fairy tale, but this world surprises even adults. This shows that small places to visit in Bhimtal are also beautiful.
Location: Island in the middle of Bhimtal Lake
What to do?:
- Go to the island by boat
- See rare fish species
- Have an interesting experience with kids
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere in the middle of the lake
11. Karkotaka Temple – Where the Snake God protects your journey
A little climb and you reach a place where even the air seems sacred. This temple dedicated to Karkotaka snake is full of ancient and mythological energy. The view from here is such that you feel that you have discovered a hidden gem. So, if you are looking for religious places near Bhimtal to visit, don’t forget this temple!
Location: Around 3.5 km uphill from Bhimtal
What to do?:
- Worship the Naag Devta
- Experience trekking
- View the valley and lakes from a height
- Experience the local culture on Naag Panchami
12. Grag Mountain – Where the earth itself sits in a meditative pose
Far from the crowd, the calm and secluded Grag Mountain is a place where you feel as if nature itself is meditating. It happens to be one of Bhimtal’s best places to visit. There is no noise, just the rustling of leaves and the sound of the mind. Not just photographs but memories are made here.
Location: Around 8 km from Bhimtal, less crowded area
What to do?:
- Go trekking and nature walks
- View the valleys and lakes from the high point
- Meditate at a peaceful place
- Spend some time alone in the lap of nature
If you are planning a visit to Bhimtal, don’t forget to book your hotel in advance. Moustache Bhimtal Luxuria is one of the best hotels in Bhimtal you can find to stay with your friends and family. It has incredible amenities along with comfortable room options.
FAQs of Places to visit in Bhimtal
1. How many days are enough to explore places in Bhimtal?
Approximately two to three days are enough for covering all Bhimtal visiting places.
2. What are the top Bhimtal things to do?
Enjoy boating on Bhimtal Lake, explore the lake’s island’s museum, visit Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple, and trek through scenic trails.
3. Where is Bhimtal lake situated?
Bhimtal Lake is located in the town of Bhimtal in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India.
4. Which Dam is situated near Bhimtal?
The Bhimtal Dam, built on Bhimtal Lake, is a major attraction surrounded by scenic attractions.
5. What is the best time to visit Bhimtal?
The best time to visit Bhimtal is from March to June and September to December, offering pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
6. How far is Bhimtal from Nainital?
Bhimtal is approximately 22km away from Nainital, about a 45 – minute drive.
7. How tall is the Naina peak in feet?
Naina Peak, also recognized as China Peak stands at 8, 579ft.
8. What is the famous regional food in Bhimtal?
Aloo Ke Gutke and Bhatt ki Churdwari are both popular dishes to relish.
9. Is there any market near Bhimtal?
Yes, you can shop in mallital market near Bhimtal is famous for handicrafts, woolen and local stalls
