Bhimtal

Bhimtal is a small town in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, India. Its main attraction is Bhimtal Lake, surrounded by wooded hills. The town is also a useful base for visiting Sattal, Naukuchiatal and other places in the Kumaon region.

Bhimtal is quieter than Nainital and is spread around the lake. Most visitors come for the lake, the surrounding countryside and the nearby temples and lakes.

The town has accommodation and restaurants around the lake and along the main roads.

Buses and shared vehicles connect Bhimtal with Haldwani, Kathgodam, Bhowali and Nainital.

Taxis are readily available in Haldwani, Kathgodam and Nainital. A taxi is also convenient for visiting the nearby lakes.

Kathgodam is the nearest railway station. From there, take a taxi or bus to Bhimtal.

Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport with scheduled flights. Continue by road.

The lake area can be explored on foot. Auto-rickshaws, shared vehicles and taxis are useful for longer distances.

For Sattal and Naukuchiatal, a taxi is the easiest option.

• 29.34305679.5591671 Bhimtal Lake. The main attraction of Bhimtal. The lake is surrounded by wooded hills and has boating facilities.  (updated Aug 2026)
• 29.34280579.5632692 Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple. A Shiva temple on the eastern side of Bhimtal Lake. The present temple is associated with the 17th century. Local traditions connect the shrine with Bhima and the Pandavas.  (updated Aug 2026)
• 29.34303379.5627583 Bhimtal Lake Dam. The dam at the southern end of Bhimtal Lake.  (updated Aug 2026)

Boating on Bhimtal Lake is one of the main activities in town. Availability, operating hours and prices may vary with weather and local conditions.

The lake and surrounding roads make for an easy walk, with views of the water and hills.

The lake is popular for photography, particularly in the morning and late afternoon.

There are small shops around the lake and in the town centre selling snacks, everyday goods and souvenirs.

Restaurants and cafés are concentrated around the lake and along the main road.

Local Kumaoni dishes are worth trying when available.

Bhimtal has hotels, guesthouses, homestays and resorts. There are options around the lake as well as in the surrounding hills.

Hill roads can be narrow and winding. During the monsoon, rain can cause slippery roads and occasional landslides.

Take care near the lake and follow local instructions when boating.

Follow local instructions when boating. Take care near the water and on roads around the lake, particularly during rainy weather.

• Sattal
• Naukuchiatal
• Nainital
• Bhowali
• Mukteshwar
• Haldwani