Bhowali is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kumaon, Uttarakhand. It is widely known for its lush green scenery and pleasant weather. The vibrant flora of the Bhowali Sanatorium, a peaceful boat ride at Bhimtal Lake, or simply soaking up the local culture at Golu Devta Temple are some activities you would want to indulge in.  Bhowali is ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway and those who enjoy the outdoors. There are serene areas and lovely vistas. In this article, we’ll discover some familiar places to visit in Bhowali.

Top 7 Places To Visit In Bhowali

This travel guide details the top 7 places to visit in Bhowali. It also highlights the experiences and views that will be eternal: lush green tea gardens, spiritual temples, and bustling local markets—Bhowali’s attractions are highly diverse.

Picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural heritage offer much to Bhowali’s visitors. Plan a visit to these top destinations and witness this beauty and serenity together, wrapped up in the folds of Bhowali.

1. Bhimtal Lake

Serene view of Bhimtal Lake surrounded by mountains, one of the best places to visit in Bhowali.

Image Credit: Mihir P Sah for Wikimedia Commons

Bhimtal Lake is around 11 miles from Bhowali. It’s a gorgeous setting surrounded by green hills. It’s ideal for sailing, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors. The lake contains an island with an aquarium. This significantly enhances its appeal. It’s larger and calmer than Naini Lake.

Tip: Make sure to visit early in the morning. This way, you can witness the mesmerising sunrise.
Major Attraction: Boating and the island aquarium.
Location: near Nainital city in Nainital district of Kumaon

Also Read: Yamunotri Temple

2. Ghorakhal Temple

A serene view of Ghorakhal Temple with its intricate architecture.

Image Credit: Ritesh Sagar for Wikimedia Commons

Ghorakhal Temple is a significant religious destination in Bhowali. This temple of Golu Devta is well known for offering bells to the deity. Many devotees visit this temple seeking blessings. The serene surroundings and beautiful architecture make this temple a must-visit place in Bhowali. The temple lies on an elevated ridge, commanding a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. According to the devotees’ firm faith, Golu Devta is an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and if one offers a bell to the deity, their wishes are granted. Thus, you will find thousands of bells of all sizes around the temple, creating a unique spiritual ambience.

Tip: Take a bell as an offering when visiting the temple.
Major Attraction: The different bells offered at the place and the tranquil atmosphere.
Location: Ghorakhal, Uttarakhand 263156

3. Sattal

Picturesque view of Sattal with its lakes and green vegetation chain one of the top places to visit in Bhowali.

Image Credit: Sushant Mohanta Sin for Wikimedia Commons

About 12 km from Bhowali, Sattal is a secluded retreat from the city’s madding mobs. It is a paradise for migratory birds and an excellent location for birdwatchers. Adventure seekers can enjoy various sports in this area: kayaking, fishing, and trekking. The lakes’ surroundings, with dense green forests, make for excellent nature walks, exploration, and wildlife observation.

Tip: Explore the neighbouring trails with binoculars for up-close views of the local wildlife.
Major Attraction: Bird watching and nature trails.
Location: Bhimtal S.O NAINITAL, UTTARAKHAND

Related Post: Sitabani In Uttarakhand

4. Kainchi Dham

The holy Kainchi Dham Ashram is situated amidst the green

Image Credit: 25 Cents FC for Wikimedia Commons

Kainchi Dham is an ashram under the great reverence of Neem Karoli Baba. Thousands of devotees come to this spiritual place yearly for peace and blessings. The surroundings of the ashram are stunning and offer a peaceful retreat for its visitors. Located about 17 kilometres from Bhowali, Kainchi Dham today commands international attention due to the high-profile visitors like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg to the ashram with an avid interest in spiritualism. Their campus is very well maintained, with green gardens and tranquil pathways. This ashram temple is a shrine of Lord Hanuman and attracts devotees from across the globe.

Tip: Visit during the annual Bhandara to experience the vibrant festivities.
Major Attraction: The annual Bhandara festival and the peaceful ashram environment.
Location: Kainchi Dham, Uttarakhand 263132

5. Ramgarh

The panoramic view of Ramgarh

Image Source: Facebook

Ramgarh is a beautiful hill station located about 6 km from Bhowali. It is famous for its orchards and scenic beauty. The place provides fabulous views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, making it ideal for trekking and nature walks. Ramgarh, 14 km from Bhowali, is a quiet getaway renowned as the ‘Fruit Bowl of Kumaon’ for its extensive apple, apricot, and peach orchards.

Tip: Plan your trip during the fruit season to enjoy fresh apples, apricots, and peaches straight from the orchards.
Major Attraction: Fruit orchards and panoramic Himalayan views.
Location: NAINITAL, UTTARAKHAND, 263137

Related Post: Kanatal In Winter

6. Nainital

Naini Lake of Nainital bustles amidst hills and colourfully done-up markets.

Image Credit: Abhishekkaushal for Wikimedia Commons

Located a few kilometres from Bhowali, Nainital is one of the famous hill stations, and many are attracted to it because of its beautiful lakes and lively markets. Some of the main places around this town are Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road, etc., which turned this place into a must-visit spot near Bhowali.
Nainital is about 11 km from Bhowali, another famous hill station with emerald-hued Naini Lake that offers boating and yachting. More than that, it has a crowded Mall Road with local handicraft shops, great street foods, and many cafes. Other attractions include the Snow View Point, a panoramic view of snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas, and the Naina Devi Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine.

Tip: Take a boat ride on Naini Lake and shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs on Mall Road.
Major Attraction: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, and the bustling Mall Road.
Location: Uttarakhand, 263001

7. Mukteshwar

The majestic view from Mukteshwar which is one of the best places to visit in Bhowali.

Image Credit: Sanjoyg for Wikimedia Commons

One of these serene destinations is located at a higher altitude, giving one a magnificent view of the Himalayas: Mukteshwar. This place is visited for its ancient Mukteshwar Temple, which lies amidst dense forests and abounds in rock climbing and rappelling activities. Thus, Mukteshwar presents itself as an ideal spot for those pursuing tranquillity and adventure in equal measure.

Tip: Visit the Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow for breathtaking views of the region.
Major Attraction: Mukteshwar Temple, adventure activities, and panoramic views.
Location: Nainital district at a distance of 51 km from Nainital

You May Also Like To Read: Camping In Bhimtal

Though hidden, Bhowali forms the essence of the Kumaon district, offering just the right blend of natural beauty, adventure sports, and spirituality. Now that you have the list of the best places to visit in Bhowali ensure you include these scenic spots and hidden gems in your itinerary. So, plan your trip to Uttarakhand today for an enriching experience.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.

Cover Image Credit: Abhimanyu7793 for Wikipedia

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bhowali

What are the best places to visit in Bhowali?

Some of the best places to visit in the Bhowali list include Bhimtal Lake, Ghorakhal Temple, Sattal, Kainchi Dham, Ramgarh, Nainital, and Mukteshwar.

Are there any adventure sports available in Bhowali?

Yes, various adventure sports, such as trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling, are carried out in areas like Mukteshwar and Nainital.

What is the best time to visit Bhowali?

The best time to visit Bhowali is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and best for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

How to Reach Bhowali?

It is well connected by road, and buses or taxis are readily available from major cities like Delhi and Dehradun. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, while the nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport.

What are the cultural activities in Bhowali?

Yes, various cultural activities and festivals are organised in Bhowali. Famous spiritual places like Ghorakhal Temple and Kainchi Dham often organise activities that present a glimpse into the local customs and traditions.

People Also Read:

Category: Places To Visit, Uttarakhand

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best Places To Visit Outside India By Month