Bhimtal Lake in Bhimtal Uttarakhand
Bhimtal Lake is one of India’s most famous lakes, and is located in the town of Bhimtal in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand. An island in the middle of the lake is a popular tourist destination, housing an aquarium with a variety of fish species as well as a temple.
The largest lake in the Kumaon region, also known as India’s Lake District, is Bhimtal Lake, which supplies drinking water to the town and supports aquaculture in the region. Today, the lake is open to tourists, and there are a variety of activities available in and around the lake. Morning walks are particularly recommended for those who want to avoid the tourist crowds.
The Bhimtal Lake is located in the Nainital district at an elevation of over 4500 feet. It is a ‘C’ shaped lake with a surface area of 47 hectares. The otherwise clear lake water turns brown due to infused animalcule during some months of the year. Locals believe that the brown color disappears and the water clears only after the lake claims a victim.
The surroundings of Bhimtal Lake are well maintained and clean, providing a pleasant experience to all who visit. During dawn or dusk, one can go boating or take a long walk along the banks and feed the ducks. The atmosphere, which is completely tranquil and serene, will captivate you as you wind down a busy vacation day at the lake.
Entry Fee and Timings of Bhimtal Lake
History of Bhimtal Lake
The lake and town are named after Bhima, one of Mahabharata’s Pandavas. This location is said to have been visited by him. Following the Anglo-Nepal war, the dam was built in 1883 by the British Raj. In the 17th century, Raja Baj Bahadur Chand of Kumaon Kingdom built a temple on the dam’s banks.
The Bhimtal Lake covers approximately 48 hectares and has a storage capacity of approximately 4.6 million cubic meters. It is located in Nainital, Uttarakhand, at an elevation of over 4500 feet above sea level. The lake formed as a result of numerous faults caused by the shifting of the earth’s crust, which caused a blockage of the overland flows and thus resulted in the formation of the lake.
According to research, the Lake water is highly polluted as a result of sewage disposal directly into the water from the residential complexes that surround it. As a result, it is classified as a Mesotrophic lake. A project is currently underway to trap and treat wastewater instead of dumping it into the lake.
The region has mostly tropical and subtropical climatic conditions and receives a lot of rain during the monsoon season (July and September). The steep banks of the C-shaped Lake are home to a variety of flora and fauna. The banks are covered in grass and bushes, and some densely forested areas around the lake are home to Oak, Chir Pine, and other deciduous trees that thrive in the environment.
Boating in Bhimtal Lake
Boating in the tranquil waters of the Bhimtal Lake is an activity that everyone should try. The panoramic view of the dense forests and the glistening waters of the lake under clear blue skies are breathtaking. Boating is the only way to get to the famous Bhimtal Aquarium, which is located in the center of the lake.
Pedal boating is a fun way for couples and families to explore the lake. There are also provisions for canoeing and kayaking if you want to explore the lovely Lake waters on your own. Boating is available every day between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with prices starting at INR 150 per person.
Bhimtal Lake Aquarium
The Bhimtal Lake Aquarium is located on a tiny island in the middle of the pristine waters of Bhimtal Lake. The aquarium has approximately 12 large tanks and is home to a variety of fish. It is an ideal picnic spot in the enthralling valley of Bhimtal.
Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride and stop at Bhimtal Lake Island to see the fish in the aquarium. Fish from Mexico, China, and South Africa have been introduced. The entry fee is INR 60 per person, and the museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Activities to do in Bhimtal Lake
1. Paragliding:
About 4 kilometers from Bhimtal Lake is Naukuchiatal, where thrill-seekers can go paragliding for a bird’s eye view of the breathtaking scenery.
2. Water ball:
This is a similar activity to Zorbing, but it is only done on the water. Visitors must walk or run on the surface of the water while inside one of these water balls.
3. Cycling or mountain biking:
Visitors can cycle through the Bhimtal Lake’s surroundings to explore the beautiful scenery.
4. Trekking:
The Bhimtal Lake is surrounded by dense forests, and there are numerous trekking trails that circle the lake. From a distance, the view of the picturesque valleys and the tranquil lake is worth the trek.
5. Horseback Riding:
The Bara Patthar route in Bhimtal is a popular horseback riding route.
