Nondescript destinations of Kumaon – Bhimal

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Nondescript destinations of Kumaon – Bhimal

View of Bhimtal lake and township during sunset

Bhimtal is the biggest lake in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand.  This lake has been in existence since ancient times, being a gateway to the plains below for people moving in from present day Pithoragarh and Tibet etc. for trade during historic times.  It was discovered by the British only in 1841 and developed to some extent by them.  Folklore of the region say that the Pandavas had visited the place and Draupadi was thirsty, so Bhima struck the ground and water flowed forth in this place that formed a lake and since then the water continues of replenish the lake perennially, thus, the lake is named after him as Bhimtal.  An ancient Shiva temple, known as ‘Bhimeshwara Mahadev’ temple is also located in Bhimtal, which as per folklore is touted to have been built by Bhima and has been standing there since centuries.  The present temple was renovated in the 17^th Century A.D by Kumaon King Baz Bahadur of Chand dynasty.

Bird's eye view of Bhimtal - all buildings cramping up the place

Panoramic view of Bhimtal lake

                 

As the clouds envelope Bhimtal lake during monsoon

Another view of Bhimtal lake during monsoon

        Geographically, Bhimtal is located about 22 Kms. from Nainital and about 20 Kms. from the last railhead Kathgodam.  It is perched at an altitude of 1370 meters and enjoys a salubrious climate the year round.   Bhimtal is situated at the base of Karkotaka mountain, named after the famed mythological Snake.  At present Bhimtal has become a hub of housing activity all across this mountain, with several individual and apartments coming up in the region.  The tourists get to enjoy boat ride in the lake and also angling facility.  During the recent past the adventure of para gliding has also been added in the list of activities that the tourists can enjoy.  The STD Code for Bhimtal is – 05942 and the Pin Code of Bhimtal is – 263136.

 Here is a short video of the destination –

© S Roy Biswas