Bhowali Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and tips for travelers to Bhowali, located in the beautiful Kumaon region of India's Uttarakhand state.


Introduction to Bhowali

Nestled in the breathtaking Himalayan mountains of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand, Bhowali is a small yet charming bastion of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Surrounded by lush greenery, soaring peaks, and sparkling lakes, Bhowali offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to boating and fishing. The town is also dotted with numerous historical landmarks, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the region.

List of Places to Visit in Bhowali

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bhowali is home to several museums and historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. One of the must-visit places is the Golu Devta Temple, which is believed to be a source of divine power and worshipped by locals. Visitors can marvel at the intricately carved wooden doors and painted walls inside the temple.

Natural Attractions of Bhowali: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Bhowali. The town is home to the Bhimtal Lake, one of the largest natural lakes in the region, which offers a range of water activities such as boating and kayaking. The scenic Khurpatal Lake is also a popular spot for boating and fishing. In addition, Bhowali is surrounded by several mountains that offer great hiking and biking trails, such as the Naini Peak, Snow View Point, and Tiffin Top.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bhowali

For those who enjoy exploring the great outdoors, Bhowali boasts several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning scenic vistas. Some of the popular trails include the Nainital-Bhowali Trek, which winds through lush forests and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range, and the Khurpatal Lake Trek, which takes visitors up to the scenic Khurpatal Lake.

Best Things to Do in Bhowali: Activities and Tours

Aside from outdoor adventures, Bhowali offers a range of activities and tours that cater to all interests. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Golu Devta Temple, explore the local bazaars, attend cultural festivals such as the Nanda Devi Mela, or take a cooking class to learn about the region’s traditional cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bhowali

Day 1: Visit Golu Devta Temple and explore the local bazaars.

Day 2: Take a boat ride on Bhimtal Lake and visit the Butterfly Research Centre.

Day 3: Hike to Naini Peak and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Day 4: Take a cooking class to learn about the region’s traditional cuisine.

Day 5: Visit the Khurpatal Lake and enjoy a picnic lunch by the water.

Day 6: Explore the town’s museums and historical landmarks.

Day 7: Take a guided tour of the town’s cultural festivals.

Food and Drink Scene of Bhowali

Must-Try Dishes

Bhowali is known for its traditional cuisine, which features a range of bold flavors and spices. Some of the must-try dishes include baadi, a type of local bread, and bhatt ki daal, a lentil soup made with local grains. The town is also famous for its fruit orchards, which produce a variety of fruits such as apples, peaches, and apricots.

Local Beverages

Bhowali is also known for its many teas, herbal infusions, and hot beverages, which are perfect for cold Himalayan evenings. Visitors can try the locally produced herbal tea, adrak chai, and masala chai.

Where to Stay in Bhowali: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options available in Bhowali, ranging from budget hostels to luxurious resorts. Some of the popular guesthouses include the Whispering Pines Himalayan Retreat, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains, and the Shervani Hilltop Resort, which has a swimming pool and other facilities for guests.

What to Buy in Bhowali: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Bhowali can take home several souvenirs and locally produced products. These include handmade candles, locally produced fruit jams and juices, and traditional handicrafts such as carved wooden items and handwoven textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Bhowali

The local culture of Bhowali is heavily influenced by the region’s native Kumaoni people. The town is known for its elaborate festivals such as the Nanda Devi Mela, which celebrates the goddess Nanda Devi. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs such as removing shoes before entering holy places, dressing modestly, and seeking permission before taking photographs of people or sacred objects.

Best Time to Visit Bhowali

The best time to visit Bhowali is between March and June, and between September and November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season, between July and August, should be avoided as frequent rains can disrupt outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bhowali

Do:

  • Respect local customs and cultures.
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting holy places.
  • Try local cuisine and drinks.
  • Carry your own reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs or sacred objects.
  • Wear revealing clothing or excessive jewelry in holy places.
  • Litter or leave trash in the town’s natural areas.
  • Take photographs without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bhowali

Bhowali is generally considered a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, visitors should be cautious when traveling alone at night and avoid carrying large amounts of money or valuables.

Health in Bhowali

Visitors to Bhowali should carry insect repellent and sunscreen, as the town is situated at a high altitude with strong sun rays. It is also advisable to take precautions against water-borne diseases by drinking only bottled or boiled water.

Getting to Bhowali: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bhowali is well-connected by road and can be reached via buses or private taxis. The nearest airport is the Pantnagar Airport, which is approximately 63 kilometers away. The town is also accessible by train, with the nearest railway station located in Kathgodam.

Airports Near Bhowali

  • Pantnagar Airport (63 km)

Bus Stations Near Bhowali

  • Haldwani Bus Stand (12 km)
  • Nainital Bus Stand (11 km)

Other Options

  • Private taxis

How to Get Around in Bhowali

Bhowali is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also hire taxis to get around for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Bhowali: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bhowali serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby scenic destinations such as Nainital, Ranikhet, and Mukteshwar. Visitors can also take a day trip to Jim Corbett National Park, which is famous for its tiger population and other wildlife.

Conclusion

Bhowali is a hidden gem nestled in the Himalayas, offering a range of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. From the richness of the local cuisine to the intricate architecture of the temples, Bhowali has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their trip to this beautiful town and explore all the wonders it has to offer.