Bhimtal, nestled in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand, is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Nainital. But those who take a detour to this peaceful town are rewarded with serenity, scenic beauty, and surprises that lie beyond the touristy trail. While the Bhimtal Lake and aquarium island are commonly visited, there are several hidden gems in Bhimtal that remain offbeat and untouched.
In this blog, we uncover some of the lesser-known Bhimtal places and local secrets that you should explore if you're someone who loves going beyond the typical itinerary.
- Hidimba Parvat – Nature Meets Mythology
Located around 5 km from Bhimtal Lake, Hidimba Parvat is one of those places that even many locals don't talk about often. Named after the mythological character Hidimba (wife of Bhima), this serene hill offers breathtaking views of the valley and a peaceful trail for hikers.
It's also home to the Vankhandi Ashram, an eco-friendly retreat started by a monk and environmentalist. The calm here is unmatched, making it a great spot for meditation and nature photography.
Why visit: Offbeat trekking, spiritual vibes, peaceful nature walk.
- Karkotak Temple – A Serpentine Mystery
Perched on the Karkotak Hill, this ancient Nag temple offers a stunning 360-degree view of the Bhimtal valley and surrounding Kumaon Hills. Dedicated to the serpent deity Karkotaka, it's a pilgrimage site for locals but rarely visited by tourists.
The trek to the top takes about 1-2 hours, passing through dense pine forests and quiet trails — ideal for those looking for activities in Bhimtal that involve both culture and adventure.
Why visit: Spiritual energy, local legends, and incredible mountain views.
- Nal Damyanti Tal – The Story-Laden Lake
Located just a few kilometers from Bhimtal Lake, Nal Damyanti Tal is a small, lesser-known natural lake named after King Nal and Queen Damyanti from Hindu mythology. Locals believe the king's palace sank into the lake here.
What makes this place special is its untouched, raw beauty and complete silence. It's surrounded by forests and makes a great picnic spot or meditation zone.
Why visit: Mythological significance, hidden lake, zero crowd.
- Butterfly Research Centre – A Colorful Surprise
This one is perfect for families and nature lovers. Tucked away near the main Bhimtal area, the Butterfly Research Centre is Asia's fourth largest and Uttarakhand's only private butterfly sanctuary. It houses hundreds of rare butterfly and moth species.
Tourists often skip this place, but it's one of the most educational and fascinating Bhimtal places that you'll remember for years.
Why visit: Unique local attraction, perfect for kids and nature enthusiasts.
- Garg Parvat – Overlooking the Sacred Waters
Above the popular Bhimeshwar Temple lies Garg Parvat, an untouched viewpoint and forested area where you can enjoy a peaceful nature trail. Named after Sage Garg, this hill is considered sacred but rarely explored by visitors.
It's great for sunrise or sunset walks and offers panoramic views of Bhimtal and surrounding valleys.
Why visit: Peaceful walk, history, great view with no tourist crowd.
- Hidden Waterfalls in Bhimtal – Nature's Secret Showers
While most tourists rush to famous waterfalls like Corbett Falls or the ones near Nainital, Bhimtal itself hides a few secret waterfalls deep in its forests. These hidden waterfalls in Bhimtal are not on the regular map but can be reached with the help of locals or homestay owners.
One such small but beautiful fall is located en route to Sattal, where the stream cascades into a natural pool — perfect for a cool dip during summer months.
Why visit: Natural swimming spots, scenic forest hikes, secluded adventure.
- Folk Culture Museum – History Untold
Also known as Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya, this small museum located near Bhimtal Lake is often skipped by mainstream tourists. But for those who are curious about Kumaon's local traditions, tribal art, and history, this museum is a goldmine.
It has rare manuscripts, ancient tools, and folk paintings that narrate the story of the hills in their own silent way.
Why visit: Learn about Kumaon Hills culture, support local heritage.
Tips to Explore Hidden Gems in Bhimtal
- Stay in a local homestay – Hosts can guide you to secret spots not listed online.
- Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and get better lighting for photography.
- Carry water and snacks while exploring remote trails or waterfalls.
- Respect nature and local beliefs – many of these places are spiritually significant.
Final Thoughts
Bhimtal is not just about its lake. It's a quiet canvas of hidden stories, natural beauty, and unexplored serenity waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a hiker, photographer, spiritual seeker, or simply someone who loves activities in Bhimtal beyond the usual, these offbeat gems are sure to add magic to your journey.
So next time you plan a trip to the hills, go beyond the guidebook and uncover the hidden gems in Bhimtal — the kind that leaves you with memories, not just pictures.
