Nainital Too Crowded? Here is the Ultimate Bhimtal Travel Guide & Itinerary
TravelTalk24 Team
Travel Experts
If you love the concept of Nainital—a beautiful lake surrounded by towering mountains—but despise the intense commercialization, traffic jams, and massive crowds, then Bhimtal is the answer. Located just 22 km from Nainital, Bhimtal retains the peaceful, soulful charm that Nainital had 20 years ago.
Bhimtal is the largest lake in the Kumaon region. It is all about slow travel, quiet boat rides, and breathtaking sunsets. Based on a fantastic travel vlog by 'Aam Yatri', here is your ultimate travel guide to exploring Bhimtal, eating authentic Kumaoni food, and taking side trips to Naukuchiatal.
Watch the Complete Bhimtal Travel Vlog
Top Sights & Experiences in Bhimtal
Bhimtal's attractions are perfectly suited for travelers looking for relaxation and natural beauty.
| Location | Highlights | Details & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Bhimtal Lake Boating | Peaceful boat rides without the chaotic rush of Nainital. | A standard boat ride costs around ₹350 per boat for half an hour. Bargaining is recommended. |
| Aquarium Island Cafe | A cafe situated on a small island right in the middle of Bhimtal Lake. | You take a boat to the island. Entry to the aquarium is ₹150 per person. Food is on the expensive side, but the 360-degree sunset views are unmatched. |
| Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple | An ancient temple linked to the Mahabharata. | Legend says Bhim struck the ground here with his mace to create the lake. The current temple was built in the 17th century by the Chand Dynasty. |
Where & What to Eat: A Culinary Journey
Bhimtal is a fantastic place to dive into the local food culture. Here are two absolute must-visit food joints:
- Authentic Kumaoni Thali at 'Belpatra': Located about 7 km from the main temple, this restaurant offers a massive, authentic Kumaoni platter. For ₹450, you get Black Soybeans cooked in iron pots, Bhaang (Hemp) Chutney, Kumaoni Raita, Ragi Roti, and local veggies. The ground floor also has a shop selling local handmade toys, rajma, and jams.
- Mushroom Momos at 'The Miniature Food Stall': While driving from Bhimtal to Naukuchiatal, stop at this tiny roadside joint. Their famous Mushroom Momos, paired with hot tea during a rainy afternoon, is an absolute delight.
Day Trips: Hanuman Temple & Naukuchiatal
If you have a 2-day itinerary, make sure you step slightly outside of Bhimtal to see these beautiful spots:
| Location | What to Expect | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 52-Foot Hanuman Temple | A massive, towering statue of Lord Hanuman visible from miles away. | A very quiet and peaceful temple ground where you can spend 15-20 minutes offering prayers. |
| Naukuchiatal | The 'Lake of Nine Corners', located just 8 km from Bhimtal. | Even quieter and more pristine than Bhimtal! It features beautiful Shikara-style boats. There are numerous boutique homestays and hostels located right on the lake edge. |
Where to Stay: Luxury & Views
Bhimtal offers excellent accommodations ranging from budget hostels in Naukuchiatal to high-end luxury villas. For an unforgettable experience, consider staying at 'Aalya Stays by Eliyas' (Eco by the Lake). These luxurious, conical villas offer 5-star interiors. The best part? You get uninterrupted views of the lake, paragliders flying overhead, and mesmerizing sunsets straight from your bedroom balcony.
“Skip the traffic jams of Nainital and embrace the slow, soulful pace of Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal. Let TravelTalk24 map out your peaceful escape seamlessly.”
— TravelTalk24 Team
Simplify Your Uttarakhand Road Trip
Figuring out the best Kumaoni restaurants, managing boat rides to the Aquarium Island, and booking the best lake-view stays can be tedious. To plan your routes and itineraries effortlessly, check out the travel planning app, TravelTalk24.
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