While Nainital gets all the attention, the cluster of quieter lakes just 20–30 km away — Sattal, Bhimtal, and Naukuchiatal — offer the same Kumaon beauty with a fraction of the crowds.
The Kumaon lakes district around Nainital has far more to offer than its famous namesake. Sattal (Seven Lakes), Bhimtal, and Naukuchiatal (Nine-cornered Lake) each have a distinct character — and all three can be explored in a single day from Nainital or as a standalone trip from Bareilly.
Bhimtal (22 km from Nainital)
The largest lake in the cluster, set in a wide green valley. It has an island in the middle — accessible by rowboat — with an old Bhimeshwar Mahadev temple and a freshwater aquarium. Far quieter than Nainital and equally beautiful.
Naukuchiatal (26 km from Nainital)
The deepest lake in Kumaon (40m). Named for its nine corners (though they're hard to count from the shore). Excellent paragliding launch site. Very peaceful — almost no tourist infrastructure, which is its charm.
Sattal (22 km from Bhimtal)
Seven interconnected forest lakes surrounded by dense oak and rhododendron jungle. India's finest freshwater birding destination — over 500 species recorded. The Sattal Christian Ashram on the lakeside is a century-old peaceful retreat.
Getting There from Bareilly
Bareilly → Haldwani → Bhowali → Bhimtal: 155 km, 4 hours. From Bhimtal, all three lakes are within 15 km. An SUV makes the forest roads around Sattal comfortable.