Located 22 km from Nainital, Bhimtal Lake, lies at an altitude of 1370 meters. It is surrounded by the Kumaoun hills and falls in the northern region of India. The Lake is named after the second pandava called Bhima of the famous epic Mahabharata. It is most famous tourists place near Nainital. It is one of the largest lakes in the Nainital and the second largest lake in Kumaoun. There is an island in the middle of the lake and the restaurant is located atop it. Tourists reach this places by boats. The total distance of the island from the lake shore is around 91 meters. The best time to visit the lake lies from April to July and from September to October.
Flora
and Fauna of Bhimtal Lake : According to the geologist the Lake was created by the series of faults caused by the movements in the Earth crust. Surface drainage was somehow blocked which resulted in the formation of the Bhimtal lake. The lake has rich flora and fauna around it. Thick forests of pine and oak cover the hill slopes around the lake. The lake supports the large variety of aquatic life and is the home to the number of migratory birds in the winter months. Some of the famous species found in the area includes bulbul, wall creeper, Emerald Dove, Black Eagle, and Tawny fish owl. Tourists can also explore the area by foot. Make a visit to the 40 feet high Victorian Dam at the end of the lake and the terraced flower gardens on its both sides. The lake provides the excellent opportunity for boating in its water. You can also engage in fishing/angling around the lake.
In and Around Bhimtal Lake :
Bhowali :
It is the most beautiful scenic destination located near the Lake at the height of 1706 meters above the sea level. Bhowali enjoys the healty and pleasant climate through out the year and is covered by the forests of pine, oak, deodar and rhododendrons from all the sides. Apart from the gardens and orchards, glittering snow capped mountains add charm to its beauty. It is popularly known as the Hill fruit mart. Bhowali provides some of the excellent views of the Himalayan peaks.
Kainchi :
Situated on the Almora road, Kainchi is the famous pilgrimage spot. It is known for the temple built by a sage of the twentieth century called Karauli Baba. The temple is extremely beautiful and the deities are absolutely divine. It is located at an altitude of 1400 meters. The temple is visited by thousand of tourists every year.
Gorkhakhal : Gorkhakhal is known for the temple of Lord Golla, worshiped by the people of hills. Tourists can also make a visit to the famous Sainik school in this area.
Bhimeshwar temple complex :
Another famous attraction of the place is the Bhimeshwara temple on the bank of the lake. It is old Shiva temple, built when Bhima visited the place during the vanvas period of the Pandavas. Tourists can also visit Hanuman Garhi nearby lake, which is 4 am high Hanuman statue.
