Often viewed as a day trip from Nainital, Bhimtal has now carved out its own space to become a unique destination in its own right. Until a couple of years ago, the main draw here at Bhimtal was its lake created by the earth-dam built in 1883. Regular boating and sightseeing apart, Bhimtal has now come to be associated with adventure activities like kayaking and paragliding. Now known for so much more, Bhimtal Lake also offers fantastic angling opportunities.
Kayaking at Bhimtal
Contentment is paddling across the largest lake in Kumaon and watching the still untainted nature here go about its beautiful routine. Enjoy the frequent cool breezes as they cradle you while caressing the serene waters of the vast greenish-blue on which you float ever so gently. You wouldn’t want to explore this beautiful lake any other way.
Paragliding at Bhimtal
There are seldom few in this world who are not envious of the birds when they soar through the endless skies basking in their unhampered freedom. For the rest, paragliding offers a temporary dreamscape of gliding along with these envied beings, hovering above the tree tops over mind-numbing views of the mountains and the beautiful valley.
Angling at Bhimtal
One of India’s very few lakes that permit angling, Bhimtal lake is not just an average ‘boat and go’ experience. With perfect insight about the changing seasons and temperatures, he will help you find the right spots around the lake with higher chances of a catch. Recommended as a de-stressing activity, angling can turn pretty addictive, so expect to spend longer than you anticipated here and come back for more.
March to June is the popular tourist season when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities and quite pleasant. If you’re the type to lace up your adventure boots, this is the time to visit here with paragliding, trekking, camping and rafting all up for grabs.
July to September sees heavy rainfall and quite a drop in visitors. On the up side the rains make the hills more luxuriant and if you’re the kind who prefers dripping weather and lonesome hikes, this time has your name all over it.
October to February gets chilly and January brings in snowfall too.
Although Bhimtal is a year-round destination, the activities open to you may vary based on when you visit. So, plan accordingly.
Pack as light as possible given the amount of road travel involved here.
• Cotton clothing for summer and a light jacket would work for when evenings get cooler. If you’re un[travel]ling in winter, warmer clothes complete with thick socks and warmer jackets. Carry your windcheater and umbrella if you’re here in the monsoons as well.
• Sturdy walking shoes, mandatory if you’re hiking, make sense given the amount of walking involved here.
• Sunscreen, especially if you’re going up to the higher reaches. Usual prescription medications.
• Mobile and tablet electronic chargers.
• Monolith Resorts, Bhimtal
• Fisherman’s Lodge, Bhimtal
• The Retreat, Bhimtal
• Country Inn, Bhimtal
• Aamod, Bhimtal
Book trips for the rest of India here.
