Skip to content
Bhimtal

Bhimtal

India

The calm Kumaoni lake town that lets you breathe.

2 Group Tours·1 Operators·from ₹12,000

Bhimtal is a quieter, more laid-back cousin of Nainital, centered around a larger lake with an island aquarium. It's a favorite weekend escape from Delhi and a base for exploring t...

Best forCouplesFriendsFamilySolo travelersNature loversBudget travelersWeekend getaways
Easy
|Moderate. You should be comfortable walking on hilly terrain and climbing stairs.
Updated today

Top Operators

Tourtrekholidays
Tourtrekholidays
2 trips · ✓★ 5.0

Upcoming (2)

spiritual

Uttarakhand Scenic & Spiritual Escape: Nainital, Kausani & Bhimtal

Tourtrekholidays5.0(44)
Nainital•Delhi
6 days•Next: On request
₹15,500 / person
mountain

Uttarakhand Escape: Nainital & Bhimtal Lake Tour

Tourtrekholidays5.0(44)
Nainital•Delhi
4 days•Next: On request
₹12,000 / person
See all 2 trips in Bhimtal

Explore Nearby

If you like Bhimtal, you might also enjoy these destinations.

Nainital
Nainital
6 trips
Jim Corbett Waterfall
Jim Corbett Waterfall
1 trips
Ranikhet
Ranikhet
1 trips
Jageshwar Dham
Jageshwar Dham
1 trips
Gaumukh
Gaumukh
2 trips

Trips by Departure City

Find Bhimtal trips departing from your city.

From Delhi
2 trips available

What to Expect

Expect a relaxed lakeside atmosphere, with the main activity being boating on Bhimtal Lake. The town is spread around the lake, so you'll do a fair amount of walking. There are a few cafes and restaurants with lake views, and the pace is slow. You'll find more families and couples than the backpacker crowd. Evenings are quiet, and the stars are visible.

Things to Do

Boating on Bhimtal Lake
1-2 hours·₹200-₹500 per boat
Group
Visit the Island Aquarium
1 hour·₹50-₹100 per person
Group
Trek to Hidimba Parvat
3-4 hours round trip·Free
Group
Victoria Falls
2-3 hours·Free
Group
Day trip to Nainital
Full day·₹1000-₹2000 per person (including transport)
Group
Mukteshwar Temple and Sunset Point
Half day·₹500-₹1000 per person (including transport)
Group
Jim Corbett Waterfall
3-4 hours·₹200-₹400 per person (entry + transport)
Group
Birdwatching at Sattal
Half day·₹500-₹1000 per person (including guide)
Group

Plan Your Trip

How to Reach

By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar (about 60 km). From there, take a taxi or bus to Bhimtal. By Train: Kathgodam is the nearest railway station (about 50 km). From Kathgodam, you can take a taxi or shared cab. By Road: Regular buses from Delhi (via Ramnagar) and Nainital. Driving from Delhi takes about 7-8 hours via NH9.

Travel Tips
1Book accommodation in advance during peak season (Oct-Jun) and on weekends.
2Carry cash, as ATMs may be scarce and cards not accepted everywhere.
3Use local shared taxis to save money; they are a common mode of transport.
4Start your day early to avoid crowds at popular spots.
5Respect the environment; don't litter and avoid single-use plastics.
6If you're prone to motion sickness, carry medication for the winding roads.
7Check road conditions before traveling during monsoon.
8Learn a few Hindi phrases; it helps in bargaining and interacting with locals.

Local Guide

Food & DiningVeg Friendly

Eat where the locals eat. Look for small joints that serve fresh, home-style Kumaoni food. Avoid fancy restaurants that cater only to tourists, as they can be overpriced.

FAQs

Is Bhimtal better than Nainital?
If you want a quieter, less commercialized lake experience, Bhimtal is better. Nainital has more attractions and a bustling mall road, but it's crowded and noisy. Bhimtal offers a peaceful retreat with a bigger lake.
Can we swim in Bhimtal Lake?
Swimming is not recommended due to water quality and safety. Boating and paddle boating are the main activities.
How far is Bhimtal from Nainital?
About 22 kilometers, roughly a 45-minute drive. You can take a shared taxi or local bus.
What is the best time to visit Bhimtal?
October to June is ideal. Monsoon (July-August) is scenic but risky due to landslides.
Are there good cafes with a view?
Yes, several cafes along the lake offer great views. Try 'Pine Wood' or 'Bhimtal Lake View Cafe' for decent food and ambiance.
Is Bhimtal safe for solo female travelers?
Generally yes, but like any hill town, avoid isolated areas after dark. Stick to well-lit places and use reputable transport.
What are the must-do activities in Bhimtal?
Boating on the lake, visiting the island aquarium, trekking to Hidimba Parvat, and exploring nearby waterfalls like Victoria Falls.
How many days are enough for Bhimtal?
2-3 days is sufficient to cover the lake and nearby attractions. Add more if you plan to visit Nainital or Mukteshwar.
Can we do a day trip from Delhi to Bhimtal?
It's possible but very rushed. The drive takes about 7-8 hours one way. Better to stay overnight.
Are there ATMs and medical facilities?
Yes, there are a few ATMs and a small hospital. For major medical emergencies, Nainital is the nearest big town.

Group Trips to Bhimtal

Looking for a peaceful hill station near Delhi? Bhimtal is your answer. This quiet lake town in Uttarakhand offers a perfect weekend getaway for groups of friends, couples, and families. With a larger lake than Nainital, it's ideal for boating and relaxing by the water. Group tours to Bhimtal often include visits to nearby attractions like Nainital, Mukteshwar, and Jim Corbett Waterfall, making it a great base for exploring Kumaon. The best time to visit is from October to June, when the weather is pleasant. Whether you're on a budget or looking for luxury, there are plenty of options for group accommodation and activities. So, if you're planning a trip with friends, consider Bhimtal for a laid-back, scenic escape that won't break the bank.

Destination data helps you shortlist trips quickly. Refreshed periodically.