Bhimtal as a perfect weekend getaway
In contrast to Nainital that is always bustling with activity and crowd, Bhimtal is more of an idyllic place which is less crowded. This scenic lakeside destination is a treat for the love birds as they can enjoy boating, paddling, birding, nature walks and adventurous trekking here.
To make the aura divine, Bhimtal also nestles some of the holy temples where many devotees flock for paying obeisance. One of the prominent places of faith in Bhimtal is the 17th-century Bhimeshwar temple, showcasing its intricate architecture.
The tourists can also bask at the island bedecked in the midst of Bhimtal and enjoy the rays of glittering sun beaming over their faces. For excursions, one can visit Nainital, Nakuchiatal, Sattal that are at a stone throw’s away.
Why Visit Bhimtal Hill Station?
Bhimtal, unlike Nainital as is a peaceful and quite place which adds charm to the stay at here. Bhimtal provides ample water sport opportunities for amateurs with paddling and boating facilities.
The island amidst Bhimtal is 91mts from the shore of the Bhimtal Lake. Bhimtal covers larger area than Nainital and thousands of tourists visit every year to enjoy the serene and pristine beauty of this place. Bhimtal is the favorite excursion of the travelers who visit Nainital and Haldwani.
Best Experiences in Bhimtal
- Boating in the peaceful Bhimtal Lake
- Visiting the island aquarium in the middle of the lake
- Relaxing at lakeside cafes and stays
- Watching sunset over the surrounding hills
- Kayaking and adventure activities
- Exploring nearby forest trails
- Photography during misty mornings
- Weekend road trips from Delhi and Kathgodam
Staying in Bhimtal
The lake town of Bhimtal, which is just 20 kms away from Nainital, is flocked with lot of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to economical budget guesthouses that a tourist can choose according to their budget. Due to its proximity of Nainital, Bhimtal attracts lot of tourists during the winter season and the rates go through the roof during the tourist season in Nainital and hence staying at Bhimtal is a good option.
Bhimtal Food Guide
Bhimtal has quite a few restaurants and eating joints which offer multi-cuisines ranging from Chinese, continental to the scrumptious Indian cuisine – both North Indian and South Indian. Apart from that, one can also enjoy street food like Momos which are available all over the place and sip a coffee by the lake side. The resorts and high-end hotels have in-house restaurants and bar.
History of Bhimtal
Bhimtal came under the British rule after the Anglo-Nepalese War also known as Gorkha War of 1814-1816. The pedestrian roads are still in use and are connected to Kathgodam along with different regions of Kumaon and also, Nepal and Tibet. It is speculated that the connecting routes might be a part of the ancient silk route.
Many researchers believe that Bhimtal is older than Nainital which is around 150-160 years old. There is also a famous Shiva temple adorned alongside the Bheemtal lake which was built in the 17th century by Baz Bahadur (1638-78 AD), the King of the Chand Dynasty and also the Raja of Kumaon.
Mythology about Bhimtal
Bhimtal has been named after the mythological character, Bhima of Mahabharata. It is believed that the famous lake of Bhimtal was formerly known as the ‘Bhimasarovar lake’ which used to be the stomping ground of the Pandavas As per the Hindu legends, Bhima and the other Pandava brothers visited this place during their exile.
It is said that during this time, they were unable to find any water resource in the region to quench their thirst, so the mighty Bhima came to the rescue and made a sudden blow on the ground with his mace or 'gada.' Thereby, creating an opening or cavity in the ground that contained underground water. Hence, the Bhimeshwar Mahadev temple was built along the Bhimtal lake in the memory of Bhima.
Bhimtal in Different Seasons
Summer (March to June)
Summer offers pleasant weather and is ideal for boating, sightseeing and relaxing vacations near the lake.
Monsoon (July to September)
Bhimtal becomes lush green and extremely beautiful during monsoon with misty hills and fresh mountain air.
Winter (October to February)
Winter in Bhimtal is peaceful and chilly, making it perfect for cozy lakeside stays and quiet weekend getaways.
Quick Facts about Bhimtal
Near Bhimeshwar temple, there is the source of Gargi River also known as Gola Nadi which originates from Garg Parvat or the Gagar village in the Nainital district. Some of the touristy places of Bhimtal include the Victoria Dam, Aquarium on the Bhimtal Island and the Butterfly Museum that shouldn’t be missed at any cost.
Bhimtal Weather
Check out the Bhimtal weather report for May
Bhimtal Weather in May
The minimun and maximum temperature in May in Bhimtal is 22°C and 35°C respectively. The weather is generally sunny and clear in May and you would feel pleasant throughout the day. Summer Clothes clothes are recommended for Bhimtal in May.
What is Bhimtal famous for?
Bhimtal is famous among tourist as Lake, Hill Station, Honeymoon Getwaway, Weekend Holidays.
Bhimtal is recommended destination for Corporates, Couples, Family and Kids, Foreigners, Groups, Solo.
Bhimtal is popular destination for following activities/ interests - Boating, Christmas and New Year, Destination Wedding, Hill Station, Honeymoon Destination, Leisure, Weekend Getaway.
Ritika Joshi
14 May 2026
Stayed at a lakeside hotel in Bhimtal for a weekend and really loved the peaceful atmosphere. Boating in the lake, relaxing cafes and cool weather made the trip very refreshing. We also visited nearby Sattal and Naukuchiatal which added more beauty to the experience. Perfect destination for a quiet mountain getaway.
Mohit Tiwari
13 May 2026
Bhimtal felt much calmer and more relaxing compared to Nainital. The lake views during evening were absolutely beautiful.
