When you think of Bhimtal, the first thing that comes to your mind is the iconic lake named after Bhima from the epic Mahabharata. Of course, the Bhimtal lake is the best option to explore. But, when it comes to exploring Bhimtal, the lake is just as if you are scratching the surface.
Yes, there are several attractions that make Bhimtal a city to explore. This blog is about offering you the best offbeat places to visit in Bhimtal and the surrounding areas.
Best Offbeat Places you can Search in Bhimtal
Well, we have visited places like Bhimeshwar Temple and Kainchi Dham near Bhimtal and explored their glory. We will now turn our attention to a few offbeat places in Bhimtal.
Garg Parvat
Are you in awe of sunrise views and a silent getaway? Garg Parvat should be the best you can think of. Located near the Bhimeshwar Temple, the Parvat is the source of Gargi River. The river is also known as Gola Nadi.
You would love the captivating foliage and the natural vista of the Garg Parvat.
Why it’s worth your steps:
- Serene and uncrowded
- Picture-perfect views
- A nice place to reflect or meditate
How far is it from Chirping Hills Resort
The location is just around 1 to 1.5 km from Garg Parvat.
Nal Damayanti Tal
If you love legends, the Nal Damayanti Tal is a region you will never wish to miss. Just around 2 km from the main town of Bhimtal, the Tal is surrounded in mystery and stories. Legends say that the palace sank a few centuries ago under mysterious circumstances. You’ll love the peaceful atmosphere here.
What makes it special?
- Off-the-beaten-path picnic spot
- Great for reading, journaling, or just zoning out
- Locals still talk about the ancient tale—ask them!
How far is it from our resort?
We are located just around 4.8 km from the Tal. It should take around 12 minutes to reach here.
Victoria Dam
I always call it a dam ready for Instagram. You will find it at one end of the Bhimtal lake. The dam does not resemble other dams you may have seen. It is surrounded by flowers and Victorian-style architecture around. In fact, it is one such place that you cannot stop clicking photos at.
Why should you hang around it
- Lovely for evening walks
- Chill lake views without the crowds
- Ideal for a quick picnic or a read
How far is it from our resort
It is around 2 km from our resort. You can take a cab from our resort to reach here.
Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya
Are you a culture buff? Then the Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya or Folk Culture Museum should be the best choice for you. It a perfect home for ancient tools, paintings, manuscripts, and more. In fact, I would consider it to be akin to a crash course in the local culture.
Never miss it out if –
- You love learning about traditions
- Museums give you goosebumps (the good kind)
- You want to support local initiatives
How far is it from the resort?
The museum is located just around 400 metres from the Chirping Hills Resort.
Jangalia Gaon
The Gaon (village) is a region forgotten by the time. Located quite close to Bhimtal, it a very quaint and unexplored village that would appear as if it has stood still in time. You will be able to explore the slice of village completely away from modern life.
Check the village for
- Unique architecture
- Houses made from mud and straw
How far is it from the resort?
Located around 8 km away, you can reach here in 20 minutes
Garur Tal
Also known as Grud Tal, it is known for the pristine look and appearance. Located around 16 km away from Bhimtal, the lake is quite unexplored. It is surrounded by pine and Oak trees. Unlike other lakes in the region, Garur Tal is not commercialised and thus provides you a pristine look of the nature. If you love a quiet retreat, this one should be the perfect pick.
Why should you visit it –
- Best option to camp by the lake and spend the night under stars.
- You can also indulge in fishing here
- You may also explore a few trails around the lake
How far it is from the resort?
The lake is just around 1 lm from the resort, It can be a great pick for an evening walk from the resort.
Chanfi village
The Chafni village is located around 15 km from Bhimtal. It should be an excellent choice for anyone looking forward to adventures. The region is surrounded by waterfalls, rivers and dense forests. You can check out the region for several activities like trekking, rock climbing and rappelling.
What makes it a worthy visit?
- Plenty of adventure activities to explore
- You can indulge in the Japanese practice of forest bathing
- You may also explore the medicinal plants available aplenty here.
How far is it from our resort?
The village is located at around 12 km from our resort. You can reach here in around 30 minutes.
Hidimba Parvat
Best known for trekking, Hidimba Parvat is known for its scenic beauty and adventure options. The hill is named after Hidimba, a character from Mahabharata who was married to Bhima. It is also home to a wildlife sanctuary named Vankhandi Ashram. The Hidimba Parvat offers you an excellent view of the Bhimtal lake and the surrounding areas.
Why should you visit it?
- It offers you an excellent view of the mountains.
- An excellent choice of trekking options
How long is it from our resort?
The resort is around 7 km away from Hidimba Parvat. You can get here in around 18 minutes of driving.
Tips for exploring these regions
Remember that these places are off the beaten track. That makes them lacking clear signages or guidance to reach. A few tips may help you explore them without getting lost.
- Research the routes before visiting and have a clear map at hand. You can download offline maps as the regions may lack connectivity.
- Carry essentials like water, first aid kit, snacks etc.
- Hire local guides to ensure that you do not wander away and lose your track back home
Where to stay
Bhimtal is known for several attractive options for accommodation. Of course, we at Chirping Hills Resort stand out because of our proximity to nature. We offer you a tranquil abode in the midst of nature.
We are known to be one of the most prominent and luxurious resorts in Bhimtal. In fact, if you have planned a weekend trip, Chirping Hills Resort provides you scenic beauty and a refreshing environment to refresh your mind and body.
We offer accommodation that suits all your practical needs – be it a Family Suite, or a Deluxe room, we make sure that you have a chance to soak in the glory of the valley.
We also offer homestays, and Nature’s Nest options to stay close to the nature and the chirping of birds – true to our name.
Final Thoughts
Bhimtal may look sleepy on the outside, but if you know where to go, it opens up like a storybook. These hidden gems don’t shout for attention—they whisper. And that’s exactly why you’ll remember them long after your trip is over.
So next time you’re planning a getaway, skip the obvious. Discover Bhimtal—the real Bhimtal. Your stay at Chirping Hills Resort should make it even closer to nature.