BHIMTAL

At a distance of about 22 km from Nainital, in the state of Uttarakhand in North India, is located a town called Bhimtal. Bhimtal derives its name from Bhima from Mahabharata fame, who is said to have visited this place during Vanvas of the Pandavas in olden times.

Bhimtal town is famous for its lake. The lake has an island in its centre. The lakes is surrounded by mountains full of green trees. At one side of the lake is an old Shiva temple called Bhimeshwara Mahadev temple, which is believed to be built by Bhima. The island in the centre of the lake has an aquarium.

Bhimtal is older than Nainital. It is a smaller but much more serene place with far lesser tourists. It makes for a very pleasant place to stay.

Ferry boats take you for a ride along the lake.One can also enjoy horse riding along the lake.

The scenic beauty of this place is well picturised in this photo.

An island in the center of the lake. There used to be a cafetaria once. Now there is an aquarium in its place.

There are a few places one can visit from Bhimtal. Hidimba Parvat, named after Bhima's wife Hidimba, is one such. It is a moutain at 5km distance from Bhimtal. It has a wild life sanctuary.

Another beautiful place about 2km from Bhimtal is Nal Damayanti Tal. It is a small lake named after the famous king, Nala.

Garg Parvat is a hillock, which is the starting point of the river Gargi or Gaula river which flows in this part of Uttarakhand state.

A short stay at Bhimtal is highly recommended for relaxation and enjoying the clean, chilly air.