Bhimtal is a picturesque lake located in the lake district of Uttarakhand state i.e in Nainital district. Bhimtal is perched at an elevation of 1,370mts above sea level. Named after the legendary Bhima of Mahabharata, Bhimtal is a beautiful lake centered amidst green mountains.
The lake is at a scenic spot with a small island at its centre on which there is a beautiful large aquarium which was previously a restaurant. Bhimtal affords splendid views and visual vistas of nature's beauty. There is an ancient Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple on the banks of Bhimtal which was built by Bhima during the exile period of the pandavas. The present temple was renovated by Baz Bahadur of Chand Dynasty in the 17th century.
Bhimtal Lake :
Bhimtal is one of the largest lake around Nainital named after Bhima of Mahabharata. The beauty of Bhimtal is enhanced by a small Island surrounded by crystal blue water that can be approached only by a boat and at present it has an Aquarium there. A gaggle of ducks has made the lake their home and give company to the lake visitor.It can also be made as a center for exploring the surrounding lakes. There is a large Victorian dam at one end of the Bhimtal lake and terraced flower gardens can be found on either side.
Other attractions :
Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple
Victorian dam
Fish Aquarium on Island
Butterfly Museum
Nag Temple at Karkotaka Hill (5 Km trek)
Pilot Baba Ashram at Gethiya
Folk Art Museum - by Dr. Mathpal
Naukuchia Tal :
The beauty of Naukuchiatal is its tranquiiity. Surrounded by green oak forests from all sides this beautiful lake is aiimented by an underwater spring. The first sight of this tranquil lake is mesmerizing and eye-soothing, sure to leave you wanting for more.
Naukuchiatal is also famous for a local belief as per which you can attain Nirvana if you see all nine corners of Naukuchiatal Lake from a Single Point.
Naukuchiatal is a must-visit for those who love getting lost in the serenity of nature. The captivating surroundings and varied biodiversity that can be seen in the area within 10 km radius of Naukuchiatal gives it the perception of virtual heaven. It is the place where you can enjoy compilations of colorful butterflies and the beautiful variety of Himalayan birds.
A pretty deep clean lake with its nine corner is a captivating site. Length of lake is 983 mts. breadth is 693 mts & depth 40.3 mts. It is within an enchanting valley offering an opportunity of angling and bird watching. There is ample scope for rowing, paddling or yachting.
Other attractions :
Adventure activities like Paragliding, Angling, Hiking, Cycling, Boating
AEPAN - NGO Centre
Bhakti Dham - Hanuman Temple
Sat Tal :
Sattal is a unique, unforgettable spot having cluster of lakes placed amidst the oak forest. It is comparable with Westmoreland of England. As one approach toward Sattal first lake is old Nal Damyanti Lake. On moving ahead there is the ashram of Stanley Johns an American Missionary. Next lake is Panna or Garude lake. As we move down there is a cluster of three lakes, these lakes are Ram, Laxman and Sita lake.
Other attractions :
Fishing in Sattal
Adventure activioties near Suicide Rock
Birding in Sattal
Visit to Mystery Lake - Garur Tal
Methodist Ashram
St. John Church
Kainchi Dham : This place has achieved recognition owing to the ashram of the famous Neem Karoli Maharaj.
Tea Gardens : Tea gardens at Shyamkhet are famous for its organic Uttrakhand tea exported worldwide. It is a beautiful serene place to visit a box of Uttrakhand tea is a must buy.
Ghorakhal temple : Ghorakhal temple famous for the temple of Lord Golu worshipped by hill people