10 Places to Visit in Bhimtal 2025, Tourist Places & Attractions

Tourist Places in Bhimtal

Bhimtal Lake
Starscapes Observatory
Victoria Dam
Bhimtal Island Aquarium
Nal Damyanti Tal
Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple
Karkotak Temple
Garg Parwat
Hanuman Garhi
Butterfly Research Center

Fill your itinerary with the best places to visit in Bhimtal to take home the most spectacular memories of your vacation. A popular getaway for all the mountain lovers in Northern India, Bhimtal boasts of many stunning attractions where you can revel in nature or explore something never seen before. From the myths and legends of Mahabharata associated with Bhimtal Lake and Hanuman Garhi temple to the picturesque landscapes surrounding Victoria Dam, Bhimtal itinerary has got a lot to offer with so many interesting places.

The tourist places in Bhimtal never fail to excite the tourists as they have got a unique characteristic of their own to help you brighten up your day. While the Starscapes Observatory is an impeccable experience to help you discover more about the faraway galaxies and learn astrophotography, Bhimtal also has the Butterfly Research Centre to join in a guided tour and know more about these beautiful creatures. From religious attractions to adventure and from nature to photography spots, Bhimtal is a great getaway to explore a variety of places and get these memories etched in your brain.

Here is the list of best places to visit in Bhimtal:

Luxury Deals Explore All (5)

2D/1N

24 Ratings

Aamod Resort, Bhimtal | Luxury Staycation Deal

₹ 8,000 ₹ 6,000 per room

The Fern Hillside Resort, Bhimtal | Book Online @ 49% off

2D/1N
Bhimtal

46 Ratings

The Fern Hillside Resort, Bhimtal | Book Online @ 49% off

₹ 12,000 ₹ 6,050

2D/1N

78 Ratings

Aamod Resort, Bhimtal | Luxury Staycation Deal

₹ 4,956 ₹ 3,320 per room

2D/1N
Bhimtal

127 Ratings

Getaway in Bhimtal Resort Flat 34% Off

₹ 2,934 ₹ 1,934

01

Bhimtal Lake

Situated at a height of 1200 metres above sea level, Bhimtal Lake gives the name to the hill town Bhimtal. One of the largest lakes in the surroundings, this beautiful lake is named after Bhim, one of the five Pandavas in Mahabharata.

One of the prominent places to see in Bhimtal, this lake is believed to be the spot where the Pandavas visited during exile. It is said that once when Draupadi was thirsty, Lake emerged when Bhim had struck the ground with tremendous force, that a crater was formed and later miraculously filled with water. The holy lake has since then been a site of curiosity for both religious travellers and nature lovers.

02

Starscapes Observatory

Located 3 kms away from Bhimtal Lake, this place is well-known to satisfy your appetite for adventure. It is the second public observatory from Starscapes, this place is a haven to observe the night sky resplendent with a galaxy of stars and moon.

Here, all astronomy lovers will get a chance to learn Astro photography and indulge in understanding experimental physics by making rockets and cameras. It also organises a 45 minute show where you get a chance to identify constellations and gaze at other celestial bodies through the telescope. A unique getaway among tourist places in Bhimtal, this place is for all science enthusiasts to learn something new during their Bhimtal vacation.

03

Victoria Dam

Located on Bhimtal Lake, this is one of the most picturesque dams which you can see among tourist places in Bhimtal. Flanged by terraced flower gardens on both sides, this dam is a sight to behold for all the visitors among tourist places in Bhimtal.

It is located near the Bhimeshwar Temple, believed to be built in the 17the century. The dam is an ideal place to take a stroll around the lake and cherish some time away from the hustle and bustle of life. The dam is one of the best spots to indulge in photography and admire nature as the flower gardens are an added attraction to this place.

Homestays Explore All (8)

Kumaoni Hills Earth Homestay in Bhimtal | Staycation

2D/1N
Bhimtal

31 Ratings

Kumaoni Hills Earth Homestay in Bhimtal | Staycation

₹ 7,075 ₹ 4,875

2D/1N
Bhimtal

40 Ratings

Lakeview Stay in Bhimtal | Staycation

₹ 6,500 ₹ 5,300

2D/1N
Bhimtal

33 Ratings

Rustic Lakeside Villa Bhimtal

₹ 4,400 ₹ 3,200

04

Bhimtal Island Aquarium

Developed by the Nainital Lake Development Authority, this aquarium is a boat ride away from the famous Bhimtal. One of the top unique places to visit in Bhimtal, this aquarium is a sight of curiosity for all nature lovers and science enthusiasts.

Here, you can see a variety of fish. To enhance your experience, there is also a beautiful café where you can savour a cup of coffee and take home an amazing experience.

05

Nal Damyanti Tal

This is a quaint natural lake which you can visit at a distance of 2 km from Bhimtal. One of the best places to visit in Bhimtal, the lake holds high sacred value among the locals as it is believed to be the place where King Nal and his palace was submerged in the water.

It is known for its unique fishes which have burn marks on their skin as it is said that King Nala's wife Damyanti was frying the fishes during the time the palace was submerged. Apart from this legend, the temple is well-known for having a picturesque landscape as the lake is a perfect spot to admire the mountains. If you are looking to flex your muscles, you can also go for a relaxing nature walk around the lake.

06

Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple

Built to worship Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadev, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the top attractions among places to visit in Bhimtal. It is believed to be built in the 17th century by Baz Bahadur, king of the Chand Dynasty.

However, another myth says that it was built when Bhima, one of the sons of Pandavas, visited this place during their exile. The temple is very important historically and culturally and has many inscriptions that date back to another era. Tourists come here to worship and admire its stunning architecture. During the winters, the temple’s surroundings are adorned by a blanket of snow which makes it a special treat for the eyes.

Camping

2D/1N
Bhimtal

51 Ratings

Camping in Bhimtal | Get 10% off & Cashback of 500

₹ 2,500 ₹ 2,250

2D/1N
Bhimtal

40 Ratings

River View Camping in Bhimtal

₹ 3,000 ₹ 2,600

2D/1N
Bhimtal

25 Ratings

Riverside Camping in Bhimtal @ Inr 1800

₹ 2,000 ₹ 1,800

07

Garg Parwat

Located near Bhimeshwar Temple, Garg Parwat is an important tourist attraction among places to see in Bhimtal. This ancient hill is encompassed by lush green forests which gives all the nature lovers a brilliant panorama to witness during their vacation.

This hill is the source of river Gargi and best visited from the month of October to May. It offers a beautiful view of the Kumaon region and attracts all the nature lovers and photography enthusiasts to enjoy quality time and click many amazing pictures.

08

Hanuman Garhi

One of the prominent Hindu temples among places to visit in Bhimtal, Hanuman Garhi Temple is located near Mall Road. It was built by Neem Karoli Baba during the 1950s and dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

It is located atop a hill from where you can enjoy the most amazing views during sunrise and sunset. The temple also offers some splendid views of Tarai Valley. The temple complex also houses shrines of Shitala Mata and Ashram of Lila Sah Bapu. The temple is also known for organising special festivals during Ram Navami and Navratri.

09

Butterfly Research Center

Having the fourth largest collection of butterflies and moths in India, Butterfly Research Center is one of the most unique places to visit in Bhimtal. When you are here, you can take a guided tour and get to know more about India’s largest butterfly, the biggest insect in the world etc.

The guided tour also tells you more interesting facts about phenomena like mimicry, survival strategies etc. An ideal place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Butterfly Research definitely deserves a place on your list of things to do in Bhimtal.

10

Karkotak Temple

Located on Karkotak Peak, this famous temple is dedicated to Karkotak Nag Devta, also known as the Serpent God. Perched atop a height of 1290 metres, this temple attracts many tourists in Bhimtal. One of the top religious places to visit in Bhimtal, this temple is associated with a popular belief that if you pray here with an open mind, you will be free from the risk of snakes all your life.

The temple is located amidst a very beautiful scenery of nature and is well-known for its serene ambience. If you wish to see the festivities here, plan your visit during the festivals of Shiv Ratri and Nag Panchmi when a huge fair is held here.

Bhimtal Travel Guides

15 Resorts in Bhimtal

Bhimtal Reviews

07 November 2019

Kumar Nambeesan Sambhal Luxury Homestay

Excellent

We booked this homestay from Thrillophilia. I went on a trip with my family and we had a great time at the homestay. The food provided was delicious and the rooms were spacious and comfortable. The washrooms were well maintained. The staff was polite and friendly. The best part of the Thrillophilia package is that they don't just give stay but a lot of different activities and experiences were also included. We even went for boating and the bbq experience was amazing. Highly recommended!!

21 January 2020

Ujjwal Marar Mistletoe House Villa

Excellent

This was one of the best family trip experience. We all went to Bhimtal for spending some quality time and booked this entire villa from Thrillophilia. The staff is helpful and polite and the rooms and bathrooms clean as were the linen. The villa was so beautiful and well maintained. The stay was perfect and everything was taken care of. Highly recommended!!

20 December 2019

Upendra Chattopadhyay Mistletoe House Villa

Excellent

We booked this beautiful stay from Thrillophilia at the best online price available with instant booking confirmation. The resort is a beautiful property which gives you a very soothing feeling in between the greenery. The house stay is very comfortable and the staff is also very obliging. Do visit the Bhimtal lake the view is picturesque over there. You will not regret trying bird watching as you will come across a lot of varieties of various bird species at this place.

Brajesh Jain Hot Air Balloon In Bhimtal

Excellent

Booking with Thrillophilia was always smooth and affordable, professional staff, great crowd, the expereince on the air was something unexplainable.

Giriraaj Bandopadhyay Temple Tour in Bhimtal

Excellent

The very nice temple tour was just a half-day tour but it was very fulfilling and satisfying. Thank you thrillophilia

19 February 2020

Kumuda Shah Jilling Terraces

Excellent

This place is the most beautiful resort and it’s in the midst of all the forest and mountains if u want some time off from the hustle and bustle of life. Bhimtal Lake and Mahadev temple trip was memorable. The staff at the resort was helpful and have helped us with arranged of a taxi for sightseeing on request. Overall we enjoyed our stay.

17 December 2019

Aadidev Banerjee Jilling Terraces

Excellent

A complete package of soothing nature view, vintage property, friendly staff and delicious cooked food. The complementary nature trail was good and the Panyali Trek was so adventurous. The guide was friendly and supportive. We enjoyed our 6 hours trek with him. Our stay in Kafal was also good. A must try property and to avail the stay with activities Thrillophilia is the best online platform with best deals and offers of stay along with the activities to have the best time at the resort.

19 December 2019

Bhagwati Sinha The Fern Hillside Resort Bhimtal

Excellent

Property is very cozy, bathroom is well equipped and clean. The restaurant staff is very polite, and caring. Rooms are very spacious& clean.l with beautiful view. Staff is very friendly and food is good too. Situated in a peaceful location away from the crowds Nainital. Perfect place for rejuvenation.

17 January 2020

Giriraaj Somayaji The Fern Hillside Resort Bhimtal

Excellent

Resort has a beautiful scenic view and the staff was very helpful. We experienced activities like trekking and yoga session. Food was delicious and the stay was very comfortable. All thanks to Thrillophilia for discounted deals and instant booking confirmation on such short notice. Looking forward to trave with you again.

03 January 2020

Vishnu Dutta Sambhal Luxury Homestay

Excellent

I went to Bhimtal with my friends and we booked this homestay. The stay is quite well maintained, the rooms are nice, even the washrooms were clean and hygienic. The staff at the stay is quite frienldy and cooperative. The food was amazing. There we experienced activities like boating and trekking. Overall it was an amazing experience. Highly recommended for everyone