Aaroham The Watergate Hotel- Best Hotel in Bhimtal, Nainital (Bhimtal)

Aaroham The Watergate Hotel sits on the Nainital-Haldwani road in Bhimtal, backed by views of the Pir Panjal ranges and surrounded by deodar forest. It has a detailed, published pet policy - one of the more thorough ones you'll find at a Uttarakhand hill resort - which means the staff have genuinely thought through what it means to have dogs on property. Dogs under 50 lbs are welcome in rooms subject to management approval, and there are designated walking areas on the grounds.

What the pet setup actually looks like

The hotel has designated areas specifically assigned for pets, and dogs must be on leash whenever they're outside the room. Pets are not permitted at the pool, restaurant, or other public areas, so you'll be walking your dog along the property grounds and designated paths rather than having free run of the whole resort. The property suggests bringing your own pet bedding, food and water bowls, and clean-up towels - they're not providing in-room pet amenities, so pack accordingly. Housekeeping will only service your room when you are present with the dog, or when the dog is out of the room - plan your day around that.

Check-in and paperwork

Tell the front desk at check-in that you have a dog. You'll sign a pet policy agreement and there is a room cleaning charge of Rs. 2,500 per day. Management will then assign you a pet-appropriate room - you don't get to choose. Up-to-date vaccination records must be available on request, so carry a copy of your dog's vaccination certificate. One dog per room is the firm limit, and the dog cannot be left alone in the room or in any public area at any time - plan for company coverage if you want to dine at the restaurant without your pet.

The surroundings and why Bhimtal works for dogs

Bhimtal is quieter and less crowded than Nainital, which makes it a genuinely good base if you're road-tripping through Kumaon with a dog. The resort is set on the Bhowali road with mountain views, a garden, and bonfire facilities - that kind of open evening space with your dog in the hills is hard to find at a proper hotel in this region. The property also offers treks, nature walks, and scenic drives as activities, which suit dog owners looking to do more than sit on a balcony. The multi-cuisine restaurant is on-site, though pets are not permitted inside it.