If you’re planning your first visit to Bhimtal, you’re in for a peaceful and enriching experience. Located just 22 km from Nainital, Bhimtal is known for its scenic lake, serene atmosphere, and hidden gems that most tourists miss.
Here’s a curated list of the top 10 things to do in Bhimtal—perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, or anyone seeking a quieter Himalayan retreat.
List of The Best Things You Can Do in Bhimtal
There are many things that you can enjoy in Bhimtal but here are the most popular activities people like to do in their Bhimtal tour.
Boating on Bhimtal Lake
Nothing defines Bhimtal better than its iconic lake. Unlike its crowded cousin Nainital, Bhimtal Lake offers a more serene boating experience with options for pedal boats, rowboats, and shikaras.
- Why it’s special: Largest lake in Kumaon with an island aquarium in the middle.
- Best time: Morning or sunset hours.
Read more: Bhimtal Lake – History, Facts & Travel Guide
Hike to Karkotak Nag Temple
If you enjoy short hikes, the trail to Karkotak Nag Temple is perfect. This scenic spot offers panoramic views of the valley and is dedicated to a serpent deity.
- Distance from Lake: ~3.5 km uphill
- Best Time: Sunrise hike
Hidimba Parvat Trek is also one of the most popular trek points in Bhimtal.
Read about Karkotak Nag Temple
Paragliding Near Bhimtal
Looking for adventure? Try paragliding at nearby sites like Naukuchiatal. It’s a thrilling way to view the Himalayas from the sky.
Naukuchiatal is one of the perfect places for paragliding, it is the right spot with ample space to soar and make a perfect landing.
Popular Paragliding places in Naukuchiatal, Bhimtal are Flying Bird Adventure, Sky Bird Adventures, and Paragliding Naukuchiatal.
- Best Season: March to June, Sept to Nov
- Average Cost: ₹1,800–₹3,000
Visit the Folk Culture Museum
Step into the world of Kumaoni heritage with rare art, crafts, manuscripts, and paintings curated by Dr. Yashodhar Mathpal.
- Location: Mehragaon Road
- Entry Fee: ₹50 (Approx)
- Pro Tip: Ideal for photographers and culture lovers.
Related: Folk Culture Museum – A Heritage Experience
Explore the Nal Damyanti Tal
A peaceful and sacred lake believed to be the site where King Nala’s palace drowned—this spot offers a blend of myth, nature, and silence.
- Best for: Spiritual seekers, morning walkers
- Mythology: Linked to Mahabharata
Take a Nature Walk around Victoria Dam
Located at the end of Bhimtal Lake, this dam is known for its flowering gardens and walking trail.
- Great for: Morning strolls, peaceful reflection
- Nearby: Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple
Visit the Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple
An ancient Shiva temple believed to be built during the Mahabharata era. A powerful spiritual site located beside the lake.
- Time Needed: 30 mins
- Tip: Pair it with your lake visit
Indulge in a Lakeview Cafe
Whether you’re a solo traveler journaling your experience or a couple looking for cozy time, Bhimtal’s growing cafe scene won’t disappoint.
- Popular picks: Aquariam Island Cafe, The Kumaoni Farm Cafe, Cafe By the Lake
- Cuisine: Continental, Kumaoni, and fusion options
Related read: Best Cafes in Bhimtal – For Work or Chill
Visit the Butterfly Research Centre
This underrated spot houses over 2,500 butterfly specimens and offers workshops on biodiversity.
- Location: Jones Estate, Bhimtal
- Why go: Unique, educational, offbeat
Local Market Walk
Wrap up your day by strolling through the Bhimtal market for local produce, handcrafted goods, and warm interactions with locals.
- What to buy: Handmade soaps, local pickles, woollens
Final Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Where to Stay: Explore Homestays in Bhimtal or Book Hotels & Resorts
- Getting There: Closest railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station
- Ideal Duration: 2–3 days for a relaxing trip
Related Guides
- Complete Travel Guide to Bhimtal
- Car Rental Services in Bhimtal
- Tour Packages from Delhi to Bhimtal
- History of Bhimtal
- Solo Travel in Bhimtal – Tips & Guide
Planning your first trip to Bhimtal?
Let us help you with stay, travel, and activities—contact us for customized packages and local insights.
Once you’re done with the activities in Bhimtal, you can plan for more adventure thrill around Bhimtal. Here is the list of the best places to visit near Bhimtal.