With its stunning mountainous views, picturesque lakefront and unique culture, Bhowali is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in India. Known for its vibrant landscape and array of activities to enjoy all year round, it’s no wonder so many people flock here every summer! But what sets this quaint hill station apart from other tourist spots? Here’s your guide to all things Bhowali – find out why you should add this charming destination to your travel plans.
What is Bhowali and where is it located?
Bhowali is a small town in India located near the Himalayan foothills in the state of Uttarakhand. The town offers breathtaking views of the mountains and is an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
What Should I Do there?
Bhowali offers a variety of activities for those looking for a peaceful getaway or an adrenaline-filled adventure. From hiking trips to riverside picnics, there are activities that appeal to all sorts of travelers. For those who prefer to stay close to nature, there are plenty of trails that offer stunning views of the Himalayas as well as nearby villages. Wildlife enthusiasts will be pleased to find diverse species such as leopards, bears, and wild boars in the area.
For those looking for something more thrilling, Bhowali also offers paragliding, rappelling, and camping opportunities. You can also visit nearby temples and explore local markets to get a taste of Indian culture. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous enough, there are several trekking routes available with varying degrees of difficulty. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in Bhowali!
What Makes it Special?
Bhowali is special because it has so much to offer in terms of beauty and activities—all while providing a feeling of seclusion from the hustle and bustle of city life. The mountain air is pristine and pure here; you can almost feel your stress melting away with each breath you take! Plus, its proximity to Nainital makes it easy to access if you’re planning a longer trip around Uttarakhand state.
Popular tourist attractions in Bhowali
With its lush greenery, breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and sparkling lakes, it’s no wonder Bhowali is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Let’s take a look at some of the attractions and activities you can enjoy when visiting this idyllic destination.
The Lakeside Town of Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal is a beautiful lake town situated on the outskirts of Bhowali. It is known for its emerald green lake and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Boating and fishing are popular activities here, while birdwatchers will find plenty to admire with over 500 species of birds observed around these parts. You can also explore nearby villages such as Sattal, Bhimtal and Kainchi Dham during your trip to Naukuchiatal.
Hiking Around Bhowali
If you’re an adventurous traveler looking for an adrenaline rush, then hiking around Bhowali is definitely worth considering. There are several trails available for all levels, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks across mountain passes. Popular trails include Kempty Falls – which offers stunning panoramic views of Mussoorie – as well as Tiffin Top – which offers excellent views of Nanda Devi Peak – and Tiger Falls – which takes hikers through pristine pine forests.
Visit Corbett National Park
No trip to Bhowali would be complete without visiting Corbett National Park – home to some of India’s most majestic wildlife including tigers, elephants and leopards. This national park offers plenty to do including safari tours where you stand a chance to spot rare animals in their natural habitat as well as educational walks with local guides who will teach you about the area’s rich flora and fauna.
Best places to eat in Bhowali
Between the beautiful views and the rich culture, there’s something for everyone here. But what really sets Bhowali apart is its food. The local restaurants here serve up some of the best dishes around, made with ingredients sourced from local farmers and prepared with centuries-old recipes. Here’s a look at some of the best places to eat in Bhowali.
Surya Dhaba
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Bhowali, then Surya Dhaba is your spot! This small restaurant serves up traditional Kashmiri fare like Rogan Josh and Dum Aaloo that will have your mouth watering from the moment it hits your plate. Plus, their prices are incredibly reasonable – so you can fill up on delicious food without breaking the bank!
Rajasthan Restaurant
For a slightly different take on local flavors, head to Rajasthan Restaurant. This eatery specializes in regional specialties like Kebabs and Tandoori Chicken that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. It’s also popular among locals due to its reasonably priced lunch buffet – perfect for those looking to save money while still getting a great meal!
Gol Ghar Restaurant
If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, then Gol Ghar Restaurant is the place for you! This elegant eatery serves up Indian classics like Butter Chicken and Malai Koftas that have been given a modern twist by master chefs. Plus, they offer an impressive selection of wines and beers – so if you’re feeling fancy, this is definitely worth checking out!
Best things to do in Bhowali
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled family holiday, there’s something for everyone in Bhowali. Here are five of the top things to do when visiting this magical place.
1) Take a stroll through Nainital Wildlife Sanctuary –
The Nainital Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of the most beautiful species of animals, birds, and plants. You can take a leisurely stroll around the sanctuary and observe some of the native species like leopards, tigers, deer, monkeys, and more! It’s also home to many rare medicinal plants and trees that are used in Ayurvedic treatments.
2) Explore the local markets –
The markets in Bhowali are full of life! From fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and souvenirs, you’ll find everything here at an affordable price. It’s also a great place to pick up local specialties like Kumaoni jewelry and traditional clothing items.
3) Visit Naina Devi Temple –
The ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. Located atop a hill overlooking the town of Bhowali, it offers stunning views of the valley below as well as religious significance. It’s worth stopping by if you’d like to learn more about Hindu culture or just admire its architectural beauty.
4) Check out Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple –
Another famous temple located near Bhowali is Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple which was built in 16th century by King Hari Chand Sisodia (Chand Dynasty). Located atop a hilltop, it offers stunning views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks as well as Bhimtal Lake below it. Also known as Lord Shiva Temple by locals, it’s worth visiting if you’d like to learn more about Hindu culture or just enjoy its beautiful architecture.
5) Go boating at Bhimtal Lake –
If you’re looking for something fun and relaxing to do during your stay in Bhowali then look no further than Bhimtal Lake! A visit here will let you explore its serene surroundings while enjoying activities such as boating or fishing on its placid waters. You can also take part in water sports activities such as kayaking or parasailing if you’re feeling adventurous!
How can I get to Bhowali
It’s known for its tea gardens and mountain views. But with its low profile, you may find yourself wondering how to get there. Here’s a guide to help you reach beautiful Bhowali.
By Airplane
The nearest airport to Bhowali is the Pantnagar Airport in Nainital district – about 50 km away from the town. You can take a flight directly to this airport and then hire a taxi or cab to reach your destination in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. A few airlines offer direct flights from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other cities nearby so you can plan your trip accordingly!
By Train
Kathgodam Railway Station is the nearest railhead which connects it with different cities of India like Delhi, Haridwar, Dehradun, etc. There are several trains that run between Kathgodam and major cities like Delhi daily; most of them take around 8 hours. After reaching Kathgodam railway station, you can hire a cab or taxi for reaching Bhowali which will take about an hour on road.
By Bus
Buses are also available from all nearby towns and cities such as Haldwani, Nainital and Almora. The buses from Haldwani to Bhowali are direct buses and they take around an hour on average to reach their destination. You can also board any bus going towards Almora or Nainital as both these places are close by; once at either of these destinations, you can hire a cab or taxi for reaching Bhowali in less than an hour.
All in all, Bhowali is a quaint little town that’s perfect for a weekend getaway. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, then Bhowali is the place for you.
With its scenic views, delicious food and array of things to do, there’s something for everyone in Bhowali. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head on over to this beautiful town!
