Bhimtal
About the city
History
The origin of this small town is obscure. Bhimtal got its name from Bhim, one of the legendary personalities and central characters mentioned in the Indian epic of Mahabharata.Bhimtal - A jewel of a lake
Situated at a cool, comfortable 1371 m above sea-level, Bhimtal is the largest lake of the Kumaon hills. Bhimtal retains its pristine glory with its crystal clear waters and quaint hills surrounding it on all sides.Here, you will experience a silence and tranquility missing at other hill stations. The climate is good all year round and you would be surprised to know the wonderful offbeat opportunities for a memorable holiday.According to legend, Bhimtal came into existence when the mighty Bhim of the Pandavas dug the earth to get water for quenching their thirst during their vanvas. A lake got formed at the place where he dug the earth. The place, where he put his vessel, became the small island in the middle.
This connection with Bhim, lent its name to the lake 1677 m long 454 m wide and 26.6 m deep.An ancient temple dedicated to Bhimeshwar Mahadev exists to this date on the shore of emerald green lake.