Bhimtal is a town and a nagar panchayat in Nainital district in the state of Uttarakhand, India, situated at an altitude of 1370 meters above sea level and is about 22 kilometers from Nainital. The major attraction in Bhimtal is the Bhimtal Lake, which has an island at its centre. Besides tourism, Bhimtal has also now become a mini district headquarters since most of the district administration offices have been shifted to the newly constructed Vikas Bhawan, the building complex for district administrative offices. Near the Bhimeshwar temple is one of the source of river Gargi known as Gola Nadi in the region and originates from Garg Parvat or village Gagar in Nainital District. About 2 km from Bhimtal is Nal Damyanti Tal, a small natural lake. It is believed that the palace of famous king Nala drowned into this lake. It is a very sacred place for the dwellers of the region. About 5 km from Bhimtal is the famous group of lakes known as Sattal, which is a place of attraction for nature lovers. Clear water of lakes surrounded by thick forest and voice of birds is a wonderful experience. Hill near the lake known as Hidimba Parvat. It gets its name from demon Hidimba of Mahabharata. Vankhandi Maharaj, a monk and environmentalist lives on the hill now, and has created a sanctuary for the wild animals around the hill. The area is known as Vankhandi Ashram. The hill of Karkotaka is supposed to be named after Karkotaka, a mythical cobra. The hill is famous for its Nag temple in the region and on every Rishi Panchami thousands of people visit the temple and worship the Nag Karkotaka Maharaj. This is one of the famous nag temples situated in Uttarakhand region. Sayad Baba ki mazar is a place where people from different part of Bhimtal and near around places come for worship on every Thursday. It is an example of unity in diversity as people from different religions (Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian) visit this place, apart from this the centre of attraction of this mazar is its location. You can see the whole lake, dam and the island from their and also near around places like Jhangaliyagaon, Nakuchiyatal. Bhimtal is just 22 kilometers from Nainital, a famous hill station and tourists destination of India. Tourist can enjoy here boating in the lake, horse riding, mountain biking, hang gliding. There are many mid-budget hotels, resorts and guest houses are available for tourists. The BIAS ( Birla Institute of Applied Science ) is also there. Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd. an Uttarakhand Govt. undertaking, Govt. organization provides budgetary accommodation at Bhimtal and near by places.