Bhimtal which was earlier known as Bhimsarovar is a town about 23 Kms away from Nainital at an altitude of 1370 mtrs and was named after Bhima who was a pandava king in the Hindu mythology of Mahabharata.  It came under british rule when Nainital became the summer capital of the province during the colonial era. The biggest attraction of the place is Bhimtal Lake. The lake has an island at the centre and can be approached by boat and it has a beautiful aquarium that was converted from a restaurant. The old pedestrial road at bhimtal is still in use and even connects to Nepal and Bhutan.

Duration of stay: A minimum of three day stay is recommended.

Things to do:

·         Bhimtal Lake: The main attraction of the place is Bhimtal lake. It measures 1700 meters by 250 meters and has an old dam at one end. About 91 metres from the banks of the lake, there is a island at the center. The main activities in the lake are boating and aquarium which lies within the island. The aquarium consists of a variety of fishes from South Africa, Mexico, China, etc. 

·         Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple: Bhimeshwara Mahadev temple which is dedicated to lord shiva lies on the banks of the Bhimtal Lake. According to hindu mythology, the temple was built by Bhima during the banishment period of the pandavas. 

·         Garg Parvat: It is a small hill near the bhimeswar temple and is a source of the river gargi. It is also known as Gola Nadi by the locals. 

·         Hidimba Parvat: About 5 km from Bhimtal is a hill known as Hidimba Parvat. It is named after the demoness Hidimba of Mahabharataname from demon Hidimba of Mahabharata. Sadhu Vankhandi Maharaj who is an environmentalist has established a small wild life sanctuary around the area called Vankhandi Ashram. 

·         Karkotaka Hill: Karkotaka hill derives it names from Karkotaka, a mythical Cobra,. The hill has a nag (Snake) temple that attracts many devotees especially during the festival of Rishi Panchami. This is one of the famous nag temples of Uttaranchal. 

·         Nal Damyanti Tal: It is a small natural lake about 2 kilometres from bhimtal. It is believed that the palace of famous king Nal damayanti drowned into this lake. The lake is considered to be very sacred in the region. 

How to reach:

• Air: Jollygrant - 201 kms
• Rail: Kathgodham – 60 Kms.
• Road: Nainital – 23 Kms