Lucknow to Bhimtal Distance: Your Complete Travel Guide

If you are on the lookout for a scenic and spiritual getaway in the lap of the Himalayas, Bhimtal is the right choice for all your practical needs. Are you from Lucknow and want to explore the best scenic route from Lucknow to Bhimtal? This comprehensive travel guide is just for you.

We will explore the route, Lucknow to Bhimtal distance, and everything you need to know about this exciting road trip.

Lucknow to Bhimtal Distance – What to Expect?

The Lucknow to Bhimtal distance by road is approximately 370 to 386 kilometres, depending on the route you take. The journey should ideally take around 7 to 8 hours under normal traffic conditions.

The Lucknow to Bhimtal route takes you through the plains of Uttar Pradesh before ascending the picturesque Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand.

The distance between Lucknow and Bhimtal may change slightly based on your starting point in Lucknow and the exact route you take. Many travellers prefer it as a one-day journey. However, you may also undertake a relaxed journey with stops at the intersecting locations along the route.

Best Route from Lucknow to Bhimtal

As we already mentioned, the Lucknow to Bhimtal route offers different options.

The recommended Lucknow to Bhimtal route

The most popular route from Lucknow to Bhimtal takes the following path:

Lucknow → Sitapur → Shahjahanpur → Bareilly Bypass → Rudrapur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Bhimtal

The route takes the National Highway number 30 (NH30) for most of its length, and connects to many other state highways across the states. The highway passes through several towns and offers a mix of flat and hilly terrain as you approach the Kumaon region.

The breakdown of the route can be done as follows:

Alternative route between Lucknow and Bhimtal

Some travellers opt for a route through Pilibhit, which passes through scenic jungle areas. However, this route is more isolated with fewer facilities available, making it better suited for experienced drivers.

Lucknow to Bhimtal Travel time

The expected travel time

Under ideal conditions, the Lucknow to Bhimtal trip should take around 7 to 8 hours. However, the exact time taken may be dependent on multiple conditions.

The conditions that affect the travel time can include the weather conditions, travel situations, number of stops taken and the duration for these stops, road conditions and driving speed.

Tip: It is recommended to start early in the morning so that you can reach Bhimtal by afternoon.

Highlights of the journey

The drive offers diverse landscapes that transform as you progress. The initial plains of Uttar Pradesh gradually give way to the verdant Kumaon foothills, with increasingly dramatic mountain vistas. The final stretch from Kathgodam to Bhimtal is particularly scenic, featuring lush oak and rhododendron forests, winding mountain roads, and glimpses of the Himalayan peaks.

Transportation options for the Lucknow to Bhimtal journey

Now that you have decided to choose a road trip from Lucknow to Bhimtal, there are several options that you can choose from.

Self drive

Driving your own vehicle should provide you with the maximum benefit. The road conditions are comfortable enough. You have well-lit and proper signboards. However, there may be landslides during the monsoons.

Hiring a cab

The taxi services from Lucknow to Bhimtal are readily available. Fares range from Rs 4900 to Rs 6600, depending on the vehicle you choose.

All major cab aggregators and local taxi operators offer this route.​

Trains

If you prefer train travel, it would be partially by train and partially by taxi. You can take a train from Lucknow to Kathgodam. Kathgodam is the nearest railway station to Bhimtal.

From Kathgodam, you will need to take a taxi to Bhimtal or a public transport bus. From Kathgodam, hire a taxi for the remaining 22 km to Bhimtal. This option takes around 8-9 hours total, including transfers.

What Makes Bhimtal Special?

After your journey from Lucknow, Bhimtal rewards you with its tranquil beauty and serene atmosphere. This charming Kumaon lake town offers a peaceful alternative to the more crowded Nainital.

Bhimtal Lake

Bhimtal Lake is the heart of Bhimtal. It is larger than Naini Lake. It also features an aquarium and several nature adventure options. Boating on the calm waters surrounded by forested hills provides a perfect end to your road journey.​

Nearby Lakes

Bhimtal’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Kumaon lake district. Within a short distance, you can visit:

• Naukuchiatal (4 km) – The nine-cornered lake
• Sattal (8 km) – A cluster of seven interconnected lakes
• Nainital (22 km) – The famous hill station

Where to Stay in Bhimtal?

Bhimtal offers accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. For a truly memorable stay that complements your scenic journey, consider Chirping Hills Resort, a premier lakeside property that perfectly captures the essence of Kumaon hospitality.

Located amidst serene natural surroundings, Chirping Hills Resort offers comfortable rooms with stunning views, multi-cuisine dining, and easy access to Bhimtal Lake and other local attractions. After your long drive from Lucknow, the resort provides the perfect retreat to unwind and explore the beauty of the Kumaon hills.

The Lucknow to Bhimtal distance of approximately 370-386 km translates into more than just numbers on a map. It’s a journey that takes you from the cultural heartland of Uttar Pradesh to the peaceful lakes and forests of the Kumaon Himalayas.

For those seeking a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty, the drive from Lucknow to Bhimtal represents an ideal hill station escape. And when you arrive at destinations like Chirping Hills Resort, you’ll find that the journey was absolutely worth every kilometre travelled.