Bhimtal Lake
Bhimtal Lake, one of the most famous lakes in India, is located in the Bhimtal town of the north Indian state of Uttarakhand. An island at the centre of the Lake is a famous tourist attraction and also houses an aquarium with a variety of fish species and a temple. In the Kumaon region, which is also known as the Lake district of India, the Bhimtal lake is the largest lake and supplies drinking water to the town and supports aquaculture in the region. Today, the lake has been opened for tourists and has a variety of activities in and around the lake. Morning walks are especially recommended for those who want to avoid the tourist crowd. The tranquil atmosphere of the lake is sure to make you want to come back again and again.
Situated 22 kilometers from Nainital, at an altitude of 1,370 metres, Bhimtal is a small town in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. It is named after Bhim, one of the five Pandavas mentioned in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. With its intimate association with history and interesting tourist spots, Bhimtal is a popular tourist destination, with the most prominent attraction being the ‘Bhimtal Lake’, which is larger than the famous Naini Lake. The emerald green waters of the Bhimtal Lake mirror the lovely greenery of the surrounding hills and conjure a striking view. Spread over a vast area, Bhimtal Lake is home to a rich diversity of aquatic life.
During the winter months, the lake is visited by migratory birds. Boat cruises are an excellent way to soak in the beauty of the place. Located on the banks of the lake is the famous Bhimeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Bhim actually constructed the temple himself. However, the temple was reconstructed in the 17th century by Baz Bahadur of the Chand Dynasty.
Close to the temple lies a small hill called the Garg Parvat, which is the source of the Gargi River. Another famous spot in Bhimtal is the hill of Karkotaka, known for its ‘Nag Temple’, visited by devotees on the auspicious day of Rishi Panchami, to seek the blessings of ‘Nag Karkotaka Maharaj’. About five kilometres from Bhimtal is a small hill known as ‘Hidimba Parvat’, named after Bhim’s wife, Hidimba. Today, the hill houses a beautiful wildlife sanctuary, known as Vankhandi Ashram. Within a range of two kilometres from Bhimtal, lies a small natural lake called and locals consider this place to be sacred. Apart from that, the Nal-Damyanti Tal is also known for being a popular picnic spot
Nainital Monuments
There are so many Monuments Nainital can be visited in Nainital and is more famous for being the best place to be visited in Nainital. But a lot of people do not know that it is also home to some of the most famous historical Monuments in the country. These were built at various times in history and have withstood wear and tear over centuries to look as majestic as they still do today.
There are many old Monuments which were primarily built around the year 1545 by Sher Shah Suri .Every evening there is a light and sound show that is organized here which is something you must not miss out on. There is also the Zoo which is situated in close proximity and you would see a wonderful collection of animals and birds there.
There are lots of historical Monuments in Nainital. Innumerable people tangled in the history and heritage of Nainital; make it a point to visit the Monuments of Nainital. The Monuments round Nainital make for fine picnic sites as well. In detail, travelling to one of the Monuments beside Nainital is a superb way of blending chronicled sightseeing and family picnic.
There are such Monuments located in Nainital which are very frequently visited by people and these were dedicated to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country during the First World War. It was built not too long back but it holds a special place in the hearts of people who come and visit this beautiful structure.
