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Town and municipal council in Nainital district, Uttarakhand, India
Photo: Uttarakhand Judicial and Legal Academy, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Bhowali is a picturesque hill station in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an altitude of 1,706 meters, it lies just 11 km from Nainital on the road to Ranikhet. Because of its central location, Bhowali serves as the vital gateway and main transport junction to all major Kumaon hill stations, including Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Ranikhet, and Almora. Historically known for its highly oxygenated pine forest air, it is famous for the revered Golu Devta Temple at Ghorakhal, the prestigious Sainik School, and its bustling regional fruit market.
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Named after Bhima from the Mahabharata, this lake sits at 1,370 meters. It offers boat rides and an island at the center with an aquarium. Near the 40-foot dam is the historic 17th-century Bhimeshwar temple.
A modest museum housing one of India's largest collections of preserved moths and butterflies, offering educational courses and guided tours.
An interconnected group of seven freshwater lakes set amidst dense oak and pine forests. A paradise for migratory birds and nature photographers.
A world-renowned ashram established in 1964. It famously inspired Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. Annual Mela held every June 15.
Dedicated to the "God of Justice" in Kumaon. Famous for thousands of brass bells hung by devotees.
One of India's most prestigious military boarding schools, situated on the historic estate of the Nawab of Rampur.
A lush, serene tea estate offering a peaceful escape and locally produced organic tea.
Established in 1912, this is one of India's oldest sanatoriums. Kamala Nehru was famously treated here.
A peaceful spiritual retreat dedicated to Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
Walk the forested roads toward Shyamkhet or Gethia, known for oxygenated air and bird watching.
Visit local orchards in season (May-Aug) to pick apples, peaches, and apricots.
Sattal is perfect for quiet kayaking; Bhimtal offers larger rowboats.
Tandem paragliding offering aerial views of the Kumaoni hills.
Try Aloo Gutke (spicy potatoes) and hot chai at these authentic local eateries.
Taste authentic Bal Mithai (chocolate-like fudge) and Singhauri (wrapped in Mallu leaf).
Enjoy steaming Masala Chai while overlooking the valley.
Offers rooms, dormitories, and cottages.
Provides comfortable amenities in a mountainous setting.
Established in 1956. Heritage jeweller specializing in traditional Kumaoni and Garhwali jewellery (Tehri Nath, Gulband). Sustainable gold recycling.
Famous Kumaon fruit hub. Buy fresh Himalayan apples, peaches, and plums in season.
By train
The nearest major railway station is Kathgodam (about 35–45 km away), which serves as the railhead for the Kumaon region and is well-connected to major Indian cities.
By bus
Regular state-run (UTC) and private Volvo buses run overnight from ISBT Anand Vihar in New Delhi to Haldwani.
By plane
The nearest domestic airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH) (about 65 km away). Most international travelers fly into New Delhi (DEL) and take a train or taxi up to the hills.
Bhowali is a compact town best explored on foot. For nearby excursions, the local taxi stand at the main crossroads is the hub for shared jeeps and private taxis that run to all surrounding lakes and hill stations.
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Pantnagar · Regional · PGH
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