While planning a trip to Bhimtal, you'll discover a plethora of activities that will make your stay unforgettable. It is about 22 km from Nainital and has an elevation of 1,370 meters above sea level. One of the best things to do in Bhimtal is to visit the gorgeous Bhimtal Lake, which is surrounded by thick flora and provides a tranquil and peaceful environment. Bhimtal is an ancient settlement named after Bhima from the Mahabharata. The Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple, a historic Shiva temple on the banks of Bhimtal Lake, is thought to have been built when Bhima visited the area during the Pandavas' banishment (vanvas).
Amazing Things to Do in Bhimtal: Adventures One Must Not Miss
Take a boat trip in one of the ancient wooden boats known as shikaras and enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake against the backdrop of majestic mountains. Trekking is an exciting leisure activity that adventurers should not pass up. Whether you are a novice or an expert hiker, there are several routes to explore, each with its own distinct beauty and challenges. Not just that, there is an abundance of things to do in Bhimtal. Whether you are planning to relax on your trip or want to try adventure sports, our list will provide you with some great options.
Here is a list of fun things you can do in Bhimtal on your next trip:
- Aquarium Island Cafe
- Water Zorbing
- Paragliding
- Nature Walks and Hiking
- Boating and Fishing
- Camping and Stargazing
- Shopping
- Festivals
1. Aquarium Island Cafe: One-of-a-Kind Experience
A one-of-a-kind cafe in the middle of Bhimtal Lake is a must-visit for anyone planning to go to Bhimtal. The aquarium features over 40 varieties of fish, including exotic species from South Africa, Mexico, and beyond, providing a fascinating backdrop to your meal. The Aquarium Island Cafe by Lake Hill provides a blend of gastronomic excellence and stunning views of the Bhimtal Lake and the mountains around. Having a scrumptious meal made from fresh ingredients in the middle of Bhimtal takes the top spot on our list of things to do in Bhimtal. They serve a variety of mouthwatering meals, from local delicacies to international favorites, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Location: Aquarium Island, Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, 263136
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 7 PM
Nearby attractions: Bhimtal Lake; Victoria Dam
Hotels Nearby: Tiaraa Monolith Lake Resort; Lake Retreat Bhimtal; The Periwinkle Homestay
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Nainital: Where the Beauty of Nature Meets the Thrill of Adventure
2. Water Zorbing: Water Sports at Bhimtal Lake
If you enjoy water activities, Bhimtal Lake is the place to visit. Zorbing at Bhimtal Lake is a fun water activity and one of the top things to do in Bhimtal. In Water Zorbing, you'll be inside a large ball floating on a lake and must roll it around to move. This is a completely unusual and exciting 15-minute exercise above the lake. This fascinating water activity presented to Bhimtal visitors has recently gained popularity in India. Zorbing is a wonderful way to enhance your enjoyment of adventure activities in Bhimtal. Water zorbing is done under qualified specialists' supervision. It will undoubtedly leave you in splits and provide you with memories to cherish in the future.
Location: Bhimtal Lake, Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, 263136
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday - 9 AM to 7 PM
Nearby attractions: Aquarium Island Cafe; Victoria Dam; Paragliding; Camping and, Boating
Hotels Nearby: Royal Rosette by T&G; The Rosefinch Sarovar Portico Bhimtal; KMVN Tourist Rest House Bhimtal
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3. Paragliding: Floating in the Skies of Bhimtal
Have you ever wanted to fly like a bird in the majestic Himalayan skies? If so, then paragliding in Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, is for you. There are three types of paragliding that you can choose from, i.e., thermal flying, cross-country flying, and soaring. Paragliding provides an exhilarating experience and is one of the most adventurous activities to do in Bhimtal. The majestic Himalayan mountains' stunning vistas and the entire valley's overhead view provide an out-of-this-world experience. Paragliding allows you to soar up to 3,000 feet above sea level for 5 to 45 minutes. Set in the Kumaon mountains, Bhimtal is home to tiny, hidden lakes and deodar trees, making it an ideal location to try an exciting sport like paragliding.
Location: Do Bati Restaurant, Bhimtal, Jungliya Gaon Road, Bhimtal, Uttarakhand 263136
Open Hours: Summers – 7 AM to 6 PM; Winters – 9 AM to 4 PM
Ideal Duration:
Short fly: 30 to 90 seconds
Normal fly: 3 to 10 minutes
High fly: 15 to 45 minutes
Nearby attractions: Naukuchiatal; Bhimtal Lake; Rameela Ground; Aquarium Island Cafe
Tips: Check weather conditions; wear proper gear; wear sports shoes; keep paragliding essentials
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4. Nature Walks and Hiking: A Stroll in the Wilds of Bhimtal
Take a hike at Hidimba Devi through the beautiful landscape and visit the wildlife asylum called Vankhandi Ashram, developed by Vakhnadi Maharaj, who is a monk and environmentalist residing in the vicinity. This is one of the most offbeat places in Uttarakhand. You will find that there are three major lakes in Nainital – Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, and Sattal. The lakes are bordered by beautiful green forests and hills suitable for outdoor activities like hiking and trekking. Short walks across these beautiful hills are ideal for adventurers and environmental enthusiasts and are considered prominent among the things to do in Bhimtal. In addition to that, the migratory birds that may be seen here entice nature enthusiasts.
Location: 8GXF+35C, Sattal Rd., Suriyagaon, Bhowali Range, Uttarakhand 263136
Surface Elevation: 3,360 m above sea level
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM
Nearby attractions: Sattal Waterfall; Sattal; Purna Tal; Sattal Lake;
Hotels Nearby: YMCA Campsite cum program center; Getaway Jungle Camp; Sattal Forest Resort
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5. Boating and Fishing: Boat Rides to Fish in Magnificent Lakes
The Bhimtal region is home to three magnificent lakes: Bhimtal, Sat Tal, and Naukuchiatal. Tourists frequent these lakes to boat and fish. If you're wondering what to do in Bhimtal, boating is a great option. A boat ride to the Bhimtal island in the middle of the lake is surely a memorable experience. The island also has an aquarium, which is much more impressive. Expect a relaxing boat ride and a quietly fulfilling fishing experience when you visit these lakes, making your trip to town worthwhile. Boating is one of the most enjoyable activities in Bhimtal Lake. Reconnect with nature by casting your line and taking in the quiet serenity of this angler's paradise.
Location: Bhimtal Lake; Sattal Lake; Naukuchital Lake; Garur Tal
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday - 9 AM to 7 PM
Types of fishes: Snowtrout, Catla, Rohu, Silver carp, and Grass Carp
Nearby Attractions: Butterfly Research Centre, Bhimtal; Nal Damyanti Tal
Hotels Nearby: The Canadian Woods Resort; The Fern Hillside Resort; The Rosefinch Sarovar Portico Bhimtal
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6. Camping and Stargazing: Night Sky and Wilderness
Bhimtal has some of the best camping places for all adventure enthusiasts. In the surrounding region, you may camp near Bhimtal, near Dath, Hidimba Parvat, and many others in the surrounding region. Camping in the open is one of the most enjoyable pastimes in Bhimtal, things to do. Thanks to the good weather and healthy surroundings. Guests can gaze at the starry sky while camping to make the entire experience more engaging and interesting. There are several campsites where people enjoy setting up a tent and enjoying the starry night. Camping in the breathtaking mountains is something that every traveler should do because the enjoyment is unparalleled! Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Bhimtal with a camping trip.
Location: Dath; Hidimba Parvat; Bhimtal; Naukuchiatal
Popular Activities: Bonfire; Stargazing; Nature Walks
Camping Sites: Bhimtal Camps - Wildrife Adventures; The City Escape; Lake Valley Campsite; Balaji Riverside Camp
Tips: Watch Out for the Weather; Take Camping Essentials; Protective Creams from Insects; Power banks etc.
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7. Shopping: Street Markets, Souvenirs, and Local Handicraft
Street shopping is a crowd favorite when it comes to shopping on mall roads. Almost all places to visit in Uttarakhand have places where you can do street shopping. The city streets of Bhimtal and Mall Road in Nainital (22 km from Bhimtal) are dotted with tiny stores selling statues, carpets, jewelry, Garhwali art, handcrafted candles, and organic products. These things make fantastic keepsakes to take home. Enjoy street shopping in Bhimtal and along Nainital's Mall Road. Discover one-of-a-kind things on the streets of Bhimtal, like statues, carpets, jewelry, Garhwali paintings, handmade candles, and organic products that make perfect mementos. To make the most of your shopping experience, try some of the local cuisine!
Location: Mall Rd., Nainital, Uttarakhand, 263002, India
Open hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Specialties: Handmade Candles; Garhwali Paintings; Organic Products; View of Nani Lake; Pinecone Decorations; Bamboo Fabric; Jewelry and Accessories
Nearby Attractions: Nani Lake; Maa Naina Devi Temple; G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo; Tiffin Top
Nearby Hotels: The Willow Way; The Kumaon Retreat; Manu Maharani Regency
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8. Festivals: Celebrate and Rejoice the Kumaoni Way
Bhimtal is known for attracting tourists for its festivities, especially the Nandadevi Mela. Every year, the Nanda Devi Jat is celebrated in Nanda Devi temples around Garhwal and Kumaon. The event begins on the day set aside for Devi's visit to her maiti's or parents' home and ends with her return to her husband's home. This legacy is eloquently reflected in Uttarakhand's folk music. There are many such festivities and celebrations in places to visit in Bhimtal that will have you coming back year after year to take part in these grand celebrations. Another famous one is the Harela Mela, an annual fair that takes place from July 16 to July 21 on the RamLeela Ground in Bhimtal.
Location: 9H32+HQC, Block Rd., Block Road Area, Bhimtal, Uttarakhand 263136
Celebration Months: March, July, September, and October
Nearby Attractions: Suriyagaon; Nal Damyanti Tal; Lok Sanskriti Museum; Bhimtal Lake
Nearby Hotels: The Rosefinch Sarovar Portico Bhimtal; IVY, The Boutique Hotel by Sukhmani Resorts; The Apricity, Bhimtal; Morning Moon
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Bhimtal has an array of activities for every kind of mood. Whether you’re looking for peace from the daily hustle and want to relax or you want to indulge in thrilling adventure, there is no shortage of exciting things to do in Bhimtal. You can take a boat ride on the Bhimtal Lake or a hot-air balloon ride and take in the serene surroundings. You can take a paragliding lesson or go dirt biking; whatever you wish to do on your holiday, Bhimtal has something to offer you. From trekking to high-altitude temples and peaks to shopping till your heart’s fill, give yourself the treat you deserve. So, book yourself one of the Uttarakhand tour packages and let your heart soar to the skies and your mind capture some peace this summer.
Things to Do in Bhimtal FAQs
The ideal months to visit Bhimtal are March–June and September–December. The weather is ideal for adventure activities. Summers are a mix of cold air and warmth.
Bhimtal Lake attracts a lot of tourists who want to boat and fish at the lake. The lake has a one-of-a-kind Aquarium Island Cafe that's unlike anything in the region. You can find many adventure activities on the lake's shores.
There are three types of paragliding you can try in Bhimtal: thermal flying, cross-country flying, and soaring. You can also choose between flying for a few seconds or longer, about 45 minutes.
Visitors can explore the sanctuary's deep woodlands, which are home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. The sanctuary also supports a variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.
You can try dirt biking, ATV rides and racing, water zorbing, hot air balloon rides, and horseback riding. You can also try parasailing in Nainital, about 24 kilometers away from Bhimtal.
The nearest railway station is in Kathgodam, about 23 kilometers from Bhimtal. Kathgodam is closely connected to Indian cities such as Delhi, Dehradun, Kolkata, and Lucknow, which connects Bhimtal as well.
Pantnagar Airport is the town's nearest airport, located 58 kilometers from Bhimtal. This airport is well connected to Delhi by regular flights and is easily accessible from Bhimtal by road.
Uttarakhand has a lot of places that have been unexplored by most people. Some of the must-visit offbeat places include Naukuchiatal, Kakrighat, Kausani, Chopta, and Chaukori. If you are someone who likes to find hidden gems, then these places are for you.
Do you think one day is enough to explore the tals or lakes in the region? Absolutely not! Plan to spend at least 2–3 days touring the magnificent green terrains of Bhimtal. You might be surprised to learn that there are numerous locations to explore in Bhimtal's lush alpine valleys.
The town and lake are named after Pandava Bhima. The original Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple is thought to have been built when Bhima visited the country during the Pandavas' banishment. The former pedestrian trail near the lake was formerly part of the Silk Route.
