Bhimtal Lake: The Largest In Kumaon: The crown jewel of the lake city and the first on any traveler’s list of places to visit at Bhimtal, Bhimtal Lake is the largest in Kumaon and about 20 kilometers from Nainital. It’s incredibly picturesque and one of the best ways to spend the day while in the city is to go boating across the lake. There are numerous opportunities for photography. In fact, you’ll find picture-perfect spots almost everywhere you look and won’t be able to put down your camera!

Victoria Dam: A Mini Paradise: Victoria Dam, located on one end of Bhimtal Lake, is among the best places to visit in Bhimtal. Terraced flower gardens create a mini paradise while panoramic views let you take in the lake and its surroundings. Close to the dam is a 17th century Bhimeshwar Temple dedicated to Shiva. Although regularly visited by devotees, it comes alive during Shivratri.

Folk Culture Museum: Learn About Culture: Also called Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya, the Folk Culture Museum is the best place to learn about the history and culture of Uttarakhand. It was founded in 1983 and has a collection of treasured exhibits including paintings and wooden artifacts. It’s located near Bhimtal Lake and can be visited in one day along with Victoria Dam.

Hidimba Parvat: For Nature Lovers Nature lovers eager to explore the lake city’s lush green landscape should head to the hillock, Hidimba Parvat. It’s one of the most popular places to visit in Bhimtal Uttarakhand. It’s an easy hike to the top and stretches for just two km. Once you summit, make your way towards the Vankhadi Ashram set up by Vankhandi Maharaj. An environmentalist, the monk is said to have built the ashram as a shelter for the animals in Hidimba Parvat.

Nal Damyanti Tal: Enjoy The Tranquility Venture out the city and you’ll find tranquil places to visit near Bhimtal such as Nal Damyanti Tal. The small natural lake is often eclipsed by the much larger Bhimtal Lake but it still holds its own. The best way to spend your time is to relax along the lake’s edge and enjoy the tranquility and beauty. Instead of taking a taxi to the lake, hike your way there through neighborhoods with traditional Kumaoni architecture. Beautiful Sattal with its group of seven lakes can also be seen farther ahead.

Butterfly Research Center: Largest Collection: Travelers with a love for entomology should head to the Butterfly Research Center near Bhimtal Lake. It has the fourth largest reference collection of both butterflies and moths in the country. Guided tours can be arranged where guests are given an insight into the types and behavior of the winged creatures. They’re part of workshops that also include nature walks. With so much to see, it’s one of the best places to visit in and around Bhimtal.

Pines Old Cemetery: Serene Place: Old, full of history and wonderfully serene, Pines Old Cemetery is a great place to visit near Bhimtal Uttarakhand. British-era gravestones dating back to the 1800s and ruins create a lovely setting for a leisurely walk. Explore the grounds and visit the small waterfall nearby.

Naina Peak: For A Satisfying Journey: Naina Peak is one of the most famous places to visit in Bhimtal and Nainital. It’s the highest hilltop and offers splendid views of Nainital town and the mighty Himalayas. The best way to get to it is to hike six kilometers up a steady incline. Although a short hike, it will leave you satisfyingly out of breath. Don’t forget to carry a camera and capture shots of nature at its best.

Bhimtal Island Aquarium: Amazing Displays : Situated in the island within the Bhimtal Lake, an aquarium is present. Developed by the Bhimtal Lake Development Authority where fishes from South Africa, China and Mexico take shelter. You must definitely hire a boat and give yourself the chance to see the displays. What’s better is that you reach here by getting on a boat, which means additionally getting a boat ride.

Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple: Legend Has It: The temple is named after Bhim, one of the Pandavas from Mahabharat fame. In fact, the whole of Bhimtal is dedicated to him. So, the temple is one of the numerous spots which Bhimtal is famous for. Built in the 17th century, the temple although named after Bhima is devoted to Lord Shiva. The architecture is pristine, simple and praised by locals and worshipers.

Karkotak Temple: Meditate Peacefully Are you looking for another of the best places to visit in Bhimtal? The answer to your question is Karkotak Temple. Visit here for one very important purpose and that is, meditation. Imagine yourself sitting on a snake head and feel like a god! On top of that you get the unspoiled views of the Himalayas. What better way to rejuvenate on top of a hill. In fact, very close to this temple is the spot for paragliding in Bhimtal. Engage in the sport and then relax here or vice-versa, the choice is yours.

Garg Parwat: Trek To The Limits: Located near the Bhimeshwar temple, Garg Parvat is a pristine hillock revered by the Hindus. This lush terrain and green valleys surround this destination. Adorned as one of the most beautiful tourist places in Kumaon region, the hill truly refreshes your senses in the snowy state. Perhaps, you can plan a hike in the Parwat, considered one of the top things to do in Bhimtal.

Naukuchiatal: A Serene Valley: One of the best places to visit in Bhimtal is Naukuchiatal, otherwise very popular as the “lake of nine corners.” Bhimal, in itself is a very small town and just 8 km away from here lies Naukuchiatal. It is a beautiful and serene lake which impresses you. The lake is located in a namesake town. BThe town is pretty much surrounded by hills with trees and shrubs.The valley presents amazing opportunities for angling and birdwatching.