Overview: The Tranquil Gateway to Kumaon
Nestled in the lush green hills of the Kumaon region, Bhowali is a quaint and offbeat hill station that offers a perfect escape from the bustling crowds of Nainital. Located just 11 kilometres from Nainital towards Ranikhet, this serene town serves as a strategic gateway to major Kumaon hill stations like Bhimtal, Mukteshwar, Almora, and Ranikhet.
Perched at an average elevation of 1,654 metres (5,427 feet) above sea level, Bhowali is renowned for its salubrious climate, breathtaking natural beauty, and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Once a prominent health resort during the British colonial era, today Bhowali is famous as the “Fruit Basket of Uttarakhand” — a vibrant hub for exotic fruits like apples, peaches, plums, apricots, and strawberries.
Whether you are a nature lover, a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or a traveller looking for a peaceful weekend getaway, Bhowali promises an experience that stays with you forever.
Key Information at a Glance
History of Bhowali
The Colonial Era and the TB Sanatorium
Bhowali’s history is deeply intertwined with the establishment of the King George Edward VII Sanatorium in 1912. This was India’s first tuberculosis sanatorium, spread over 18 hectares of largely pine-forested land. The land for the complex was generously donated by the Nawab of Rampur, after his wife died of untreated TB.
During the colonial era, the sanatorium attracted patients from all over India and became a renowned health resort. Some of the noted personalities who sought treatment here included:
- Kamla Nehru (wife of Jawaharlal Nehru)
- Subash Chandra Bose — the legendary freedom fighter
- Kundan Lal Sehgal — the legendary singer
- Poet Gaya Prasad Shukla, Kailash Nath Katju, and writer Yashpal
The Fruit Basket of Uttarakhand
Over the years, Bhowali evolved into a major fruit hub, supplying exotic fruits to the entire Kumaon region. The town’s rich soil and conducive climate favour fruit farming, and the region is now famous for its apple, peach, plum, apricot, and strawberry orchards.
The Seat of Bhowali Tehsil
Today, Bhowali serves as the seat of Bhowali tehsil, one of the eight subdivisions of Nainital district. The town has a population of 6,309 (2011 census) and continues to thrive as a small but vibrant community hub.
Geography of Bhowali
Location and Topography
Bhowali is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas. It lies at coordinates 29°23′N 79°31′E at an average elevation of 1,654 metres (5,427 feet) above sea level.
The town is situated on a ridge and serves as a natural gateway to many places in the Kumaon division, including Almora and Bageshwar, for people coming from the Haldwani route.
The Lakes
Bhowali is surrounded by several beautiful lakes, making it a haven for nature lovers:
Flora and Fauna of Bhowali
Flora — A Botanical Paradise
Bhowali is blessed with rich and diverse vegetation, including:
- Lush pine and deodar forests — covering the hillsides
- Fruit orchards — apples, peaches, plums, apricots, and strawberries
- Tea gardens — the famous Shyamkhet Tea Gardens
- Exotic plants and herbs — cultivated in greenhouses
The town’s orchards and tea estates create a stunning landscape that changes with the seasons — from blooming flowers in spring to the golden hues of autumn.
Fauna — Wildlife in the Region
The forests around Bhowali are home to a variety of Himalayan wildlife:
Mammals:
- Himalayan Goats and Deer
- Wild Cats and Large Cats
- Bears
- Wolves and Foxes
- Jackals and Kakkar (Barking Deer)
Birds:
- Himalayan Eagles
- Pheasants — including the colourful Himalayan Monal
- Prey Birds — including the Golden Eagle
Religious Beliefs and Sacred Sites
Golu Devta Temple (Ghorakhal)
The Golu Devta Temple, also known as the Ghorakhal Temple, is one of the most important religious landmarks in the region. Dedicated to Lord Golu, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the temple is often called the “temple of bells” because of the thousands of brass bells hanging from all around.
The temple is located near Bhowali, next to the Sainik School, Ghorakhal. According to local legend, Golu Devata used to travel far distances on his horse, hear the problems of the people, and help them in every way possible. Devotees from across the region visit the temple to offer prayers and hang bells as a mark of their fulfilled wishes.
Kainchi Dham (Neem Karoli Ashram)
Situated approximately 9 km from Bhowali on the Nainital–Almora Road, Kainchi Dham is a renowned spiritual ashram and temple complex dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Established in the 1960s by Neem Karoli Baba (also known as Maharaj-ji), the ashram is a centre of devotion and faith for devotees from India and abroad.
The ashram gets its name from the two famous hairpin bends (kainchi) on the road here. Surrounded by hills, trees, and a small flowing river, Kainchi Dham exudes positive energy and is an ideal spot for meditation, retrospection, and spiritual retreat.
Other Sacred Sites
- Neem Karoli Maharaj Temple — part of the Kainchi Dham complex
- Bhimeshwar Temple — a 17th-century temple near Bhimtal, dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Naina Devi Temple — located in nearby Nainital, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas
How to Reach Bhowali
By Air — Nearest Airports
| Airport | Distance | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pantnagar Airport | ~79 km | Nearest airport; connected to Delhi |
| Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi | ~285 km | Major international hub |
From Pantnagar Airport:
- Hire a taxi to Bhowali (approx. 2–3 hours)
By Train — Nearest Railway Stations
| Station | Distance | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Kathgodam Railway Station | ~30–34 km | Nearest station; well-connected to Delhi |
| Haldwani Railway Station | ~40 km | Alternative station |
Popular Trains to Kathgodam:
- Ranikhet Express (15013) — daily train from Delhi
- Bagh Express (13019) — connects Kathgodam with Kolkata, Lucknow, and other cities
From Kathgodam to Bhowali:
- Taxi or bus: approximately 1 hour
By Road (Most Popular)
| Route | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi → Bhowali | ~285–320 km | 5–8 hours |
| Nainital → Bhowali | 11 km | 20–30 minutes |
| Kathgodam → Bhowali | 34 km | 1 hour |
Route from Delhi:
Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital → Bhowali
Transport Options:
- Private Taxi: Most convenient and flexible
- State Transport Buses: Available from Delhi, Kathgodam, and Nainital
- Self-Drive: Well-maintained roads via NH-9; drive cautiously on hilly stretches
Travel Tip: Bhowali is just 11 km from Nainital, making it easily accessible by taxi or local bus.
Distance from Major Cities
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Climate Overview
Bhowali enjoys a pleasant temperate climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 7°C and 31°C.
Seasonal Breakdown
Best Time to Visit by Season
| Season | Months | Suitability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring & Summer | February–June | ⭐ Best | Pleasant weather, fruit orchards, sightseeing |
| Autumn | September–October | ⭐ Best | Clear skies, comfortable temperatures |
| Monsoon | July–September | ⭐ Moderate | Lush greenery, but slippery trails |
| Winter | December–February | ⭐ Moderate | Cold weather, fewer crowds |
Travel Tip: The best times to visit Bhowali for warm-weather activities are from late April to late June and from late September to early October.
Nearby Places to Visit
Things to Do in Bhowali
1. Explore the Fruit Orchards
Bhowali is famous as the “Fruit Basket of Uttarakhand”. Take a walk through the orchards, especially during the harvest season (May–August), and enjoy fresh fruits straight from the trees. The fruit market in Bhowali is one of the most active markets in the region.
2. Visit the Shyamkhet Tea Gardens
Located near the Golu Devta Temple, the Shyamkhet Tea Gardens produce renowned organic Uttaranchal tea. Visitors can buy a variety of teas, including organic tea, and enjoy the serene plantation landscape.
3. Seek Blessings at Golu Devta Temple
Visit the Ghorakhal Golu Devta Temple, also known as the “temple of bells”. The thousands of brass bells hanging from the temple create a unique and spiritual ambience.
4. Find Serenity at Kainchi Dham
Spend time at the Kainchi Dham ashram, established by Neem Karoli Baba. The ashram is perfect for meditation, retrospection, and spiritual retreat.
5. Explore the Historic TB Sanatorium
Visit the historic King George Edward VII Sanatorium, established in 1912. Though now in need of revival, the sanatorium’s colonial-era architecture and historical significance make it worth a visit.
6. Visit Nearby Lakes
Explore the beautiful lakes surrounding Bhowali:
- Bhimtal — with its island aquarium and 17th-century Bhimeshwar Temple
- Sattal — with seven interconnected lakes
- Naukuchiatal — with nine corners
7. Photography
From the panoramic Himalayan views to the lush tea gardens and vibrant fruit orchards, Bhowali offers endless photography opportunities.
8. Shop at the Fruit Market
Bhowali’s fruit market is famous for its fresh produce — apples, peaches, plums, apricots, and strawberries. Don’t miss the local fruit products like jams, spreads, and pickles.
Accommodation Options
| Type | Location | Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotels | Bhowali town | Comfortable stays, scenic views | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 |
| Guesthouses | Bhowali | Basic amenities, budget-friendly | ₹800 – ₹2,000 |
| Homestays | Bhowali area | Authentic local experience | ₹1,000 – ₹2,500 |
| Resorts | Nearby (Bhimtal, Nainital) | Luxury stays, lake views | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000+ |
Recommended Stay:
- Sarthak Inn — located on Ramgarh Road, a 5-minute drive from the town centre, offering rooms, dormitories, and cottages
Travel Tip: Since Bhowali is just 11 km from Nainital, many visitors choose to stay in Nainital and visit Bhowali as a day trip.
Local Cuisine — A Taste of Kumaon
Bhowali offers a taste of authentic Kumaoni cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Aloo Ke Gutke | Spiced fried potatoes, a Kumaoni speciality |
| Bhatt Ki Churkani | Black soybean curry |
| Chainsoo | Protein-rich black gram curry |
| Mandua Roti | Finger millet flatbread |
| Gahat Ki Dal | Horse gram lentil soup |
| Bal Mithai | Famous chocolate-like sweet from Kumaon |
Where to Eat
- Local dhabas — authentic Kumaoni food
- Hotels and guesthouses — multi-cuisine options
- Fruit market — fresh fruits and local produce
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Questions
Q1: What is Bhowali famous for?
Bhowali is famous for being the “Fruit Basket of Uttarakhand” with its orchards of apples, peaches, plums, apricots, and strawberries. It is also known for the historic King George Edward VII Sanatorium (established in 1912), the Golu Devta Temple, and the Shyamkhet Tea Gardens.
Q2: What is the altitude of Bhowali?
Bhowali is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,654 metres (5,427 feet) above sea level.
Q3: What is the best time to visit Bhowali?
The best time to visit is from February to April and September to October when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Q4: How far is Bhowali from Nainital?
Bhowali is just 11 kilometres (6.8 miles) from Nainital.
Q5: How far is Bhowali from Delhi?
Bhowali is approximately 285–320 km from Delhi, taking about 5–8 hours by road.
Q6: What is the nearest railway station to Bhowali?
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, approximately 30–34 km from Bhowali.
Q7: What is the nearest airport to Bhowali?
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 79 km from Bhowali.
Q8: What are the must-visit attractions in Bhowali?
Must-visit attractions include Golu Devta Temple, Kainchi Dham, Shyamkhet Tea Gardens, the historic TB Sanatorium, Bhimtal, and Sattal.
Q9: Is Bhowali a good place for a weekend getaway?
Yes, Bhowali is an excellent choice for a peaceful weekend getaway away from the crowds of Nainital. Its serene environment, fruit orchards, and proximity to lakes make it an ideal destination.
Q10: What is the PIN code of Bhowali?
The PIN code of Bhowali is 263132.
Travel Logistics
Q11: How can I reach Bhowali from Delhi?
You can reach Bhowali by:
- Road: ~285–320 km, 5–8 hours via NH-9
- Train: Take a train to Kathgodam (Ranikhet Express or Bagh Express) and then a taxi/bus
- Air: Fly to Pantnagar Airport and then take a taxi/bus
Q12: Is there a bus stand in Bhowali?
Yes, Bhowali has a local bus stand, and regular buses connect it to Nainital, Kathgodam, and other nearby towns.
Q13: Are there accommodation options in Bhowali?
Yes, Bhowali offers hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. For more luxury options, you can stay in nearby Nainital or Bhimtal.
Q14: What languages are spoken in Bhowali?
The official languages are Hindi and Kumaoni. English is understood in tourist areas.
Practical Information
Q15: What should I pack for a visit to Bhowali?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen, a camera, and valid ID proof. For winters, bring warm clothes. For the monsoon, carry a raincoat.
Q16: Is Bhowali safe for tourists?
Yes, Bhowali is one of Uttarakhand’s most peaceful and safe destinations. Travel with a trusted operator like Discover Uttarakhand for a hassle-free experience.
Q17: What is the local cuisine like in Bhowali?
Bhowali offers authentic Kumaoni cuisine, including Aloo Ke Gutke, Bhatt Ki Churkani, Chainsoo, and Bal Mithai.
Q18: Are ATMs available in Bhowali?
Yes, ATMs are available in Bhowali town.
Q19: How can I book a tour to Bhowali?
Tours can be booked through:
- Local tour operators in Nainital and Kathgodam
- Discover Uttarakhand for customised travel packages
Plan Your Bhowali Visit with Discover Uttarakhand
At Discover Uttarakhand, we’ve been organising unforgettable Himalayan journeys since 1997. As a trusted local operator with deep knowledge of the Kumaon region and its hidden gems, we offer:
✅ Customised Bhowali and Kumaon tour packages (2 to 5 days)
✅ Combined itineraries covering Bhowali, Nainital, Bhimtal, Sattal, Kainchi Dham, and Ranikhet
✅ Comfortable transport with experienced hill drivers
✅ Verified accommodations in Bhowali and nearby towns (budget to luxury)
✅ Local guides for temple visits and sightseeing
✅ 24/7 customer support throughout your journey
Recommended Packages
| Package | Duration | Starting Point | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bhowali & Nainital Escape | 2 Nights / 3 Days | Kathgodam | Bhowali fruit orchards, Naini Lake, Mall Road |
| Kumaon Hidden Gems | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Kathgodam | Bhowali, Bhimtal, Sattal, Kainchi Dham |
| Nainital, Bhimtal & Bhowali Delight | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Delhi | Bhowali, Nainital, Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal |
| Complete Kumaon Explorer | 5 Nights / 6 Days | Delhi | Bhowali, Nainital, Ranikhet, Kausani, Almora |
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91-9997187178, 9760222178, 8171977178
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