There are numerous breathtaking places to visit in Pokhara, making it an ideal and vibrant destination for tourists of all ages and interests. Nestled in the heart of Nepal, Pokhara stands as a testament to the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures that this country has to offer. Known as the “Gateway to the Annapurna Circuit,” Pokhara is a destination that caters to all types of travelers, from nature enthusiasts to thrill-seekers, providing an unforgettable experience that lingers in the heart and soul.
Wherever you choose to wander, you’ll encounter breathtaking landscapes that stretch in every direction. While Pokhara is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering an array of trekking and adrenaline-pumping sports, it also provides ample opportunities for those seeking a more leisurely experience.
Whether you’re drawn to the serenity of a temple visit, the relaxation of a spa day, or the excitement of a night out in the town combined with cultural insights from museums, the city caters to diverse preferences. Pokhara’s charm lies in its accessibility for all, offering experiences that suit every traveler.
Notably, what makes this city even more appealing is its affordability compared to other destinations. Here’s a compilation of the most popular tourist attractions in Pokhara, cherished by a majority of visitors.
A Glimpse into the uniqueness of Pokhara: Places to visit in Pokhara
Pokhara offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural exploration. Here’s a summary of what life as a traveler in Pokhara might be like:
- Natural Beauty: Pokhara’s main attraction is its breathtaking natural beauty. The iconic Phewa Lake reflects the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountains, creating picturesque views that are perfect for relaxation and photography.
- Adventure Activities: For the adventurous souls, Pokhara offers a plethora of activities. Paragliding is a highlight, allowing you to soar over the city and enjoy panoramic vistas. Trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit and Ghorepani Poon Hill trek cater to various skill levels and offer glimpses of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
- Lakeside Ambiance: The Lakeside area of Pokhara is the heart of the city’s tourism. It’s filled with numerous cafes, restaurants, shops, and accommodations catering to all budgets. This vibrant area is a great place to unwind, enjoy live music, and meet fellow travelers.
- Cultural Exploration: Beyond its natural beauty, Pokhara provides opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture. Visit ancient temples and monasteries, such as the World Peace Pagoda and Bindabasini Temple, to gain insight into Nepali spiritual practices and traditions.
- Day Excursions: Pokhara serves as a gateway to various day excursions. Explore the Seti River Gorge, Devi’s Fall (also known as Patale Chhango), and the Gupteshwor Cave to experience the region’s geological wonders.
- Relaxation: Whether it’s practicing yoga, enjoying a massage, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the lakeside, Pokhara offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Shopping: The local markets are perfect for picking up souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Nepali clothing. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to intricately designed carpets.
- Cuisine: Experience the local flavors by indulging in Nepali cuisine, as well as international options. Don’t miss the chance to try momos (dumplings), dal bhat (traditional meal), and other local delicacies.
- Festivals and Events: Depending on when you visit, you might have the chance to participate in local festivals and events. Dashain and Tihar are two major Hindu festivals celebrated with enthusiasm and traditional rituals.
- Community and Connection: Pokhara has a strong community of travelers, which provides a sense of camaraderie and connection. Sharing travel stories and experiences with fellow adventurers is a common and rewarding aspect of life in Pokhara.
In short, life as a traveler in Pokhara is a blend of awe-inspiring natural beauty, thrilling adventures, cultural exploration, and opportunities to unwind and connect with other like-minded individuals. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Pokhara has something to offer for every type of traveler.
Things not to miss while in Pokhara
Adventure Sports in Pokhara
1. Paragliding
Cost: In peak seasons, it may cost up to NPR. 12000 rupees (around $100 USD), although the off-peak price is only NPR. 5000 rupees ($45 USD).
You can view Lake Phewa and the Annapurna range from above by paragliding in Pokhara. From Sarangkot, you will fly to North Lakeside. Your ride might range from 20 minutes to a half hour, depending on the circumstances. As your guide leads the way above, you get to soar through the air like a bird. You can ask them to perform tricks for you as you descend if you want to feel even more adventurous. It’s interesting to see from the takeoff location for those who don’t want to run off a mountain.
2. Ziplining
Cost: It usually takes NPR. 5000 rupees (about $40 USD) per person for one zipline in Pokhara.
Pokhara, Nepal is perhaps the greatest site to cut things off your bucket list if Ziplining has been on it for a while. One of the longest, quickest, and tallest ziplines in the whole world is located just 30 minutes’ drive outside of Pokhara. Although dropping out of the gate is daunting, what comes after is largely enjoyable and, dare we say, soothing. You’ll be happy you did it even if it’s a little pricey and only lasts less than two minutes.
3. Bungy Jumping
Cost: NPR. 7,000 rupees at The Cliff (about $60 USD)
Around Pokhara, there are just three alternatives for bungee jumping. They consist of The Cliff, the tallest bungy jump in Nepal, High Ground Adventures, and Go Bungy Nepal. It is advised to attempt “The Cliff” instead than “The Last Resort” in Nepal, which is on the opposite side of the nation, as it was just built and is the highest bungy jumping location. Bungy jumping is the best option if you want a quick yet tremendous adrenaline rush.
4. Tandem Swing
Cost: NPR. 12000 rupees per couple (about $100 USD)
You may consider going on a tandem swing with a buddy or your lover if bungy leaping isn’t your thing. Despite appearing to get disoriented and upside down during the bungy leap, the swing is now safer than ever. The swing appears more terrifying than other adventure sports to the majority of individuals. Just two to three hours’ drive outside of Pokhara is The Cliff in Kushma, where you may attempt a tandem swing.
5. ATV Adventure
Cost: NPR. 9,500 rupees (about $80 USD)
An ATV trip is one of the newest activities High Ground Adventures has introduced to Nepal. Why, in all honesty, didn’t anyone consider this earlier? The best spot to off-road with an all-terrain vehicle is Nepal. You may now go on a two-hour off-road excursion to Sarangkot, where you can have a great lunch.
6. WISH – West Indoor Sport Hub
Near Pokhara’s Lakeside lies the sports complex and climbing wall known as WISH. They have a fantastic rock-climbing wall that is ideal for both novices and specialists. You can choose to boulder or be roped into a belay if you want to climb higher. If you fall, the floor has mats to catch you. This is a fantastic opportunity to do something different for the morning or afternoon.
7. Go Kart Pokhara
You and your entire family may experience a fantastic burst of excitement at Go Kart Pokhara. This is a great activity to do with children if you’re searching for a fun morning activity. It is situated on the northern shore of Lake Phewa and may be paired with a visit to Pame Beach, a popular waterfront dining destination that isn’t really a beach. The only drawback is that getting there will require renting a car. Happy racing!
8. Kayaking on Lake Phewa
Cost: NPR. 200 per hour or NPR. 1,000 a day (about $2 USD or $10 USD)
This is where you can hire a kayak at a reasonable price if you love kayaking but it always seems like it would be too pricey. Take one for an hour just before supper to take in the breathtaking view of the sunset over the lake. 4:30 pm would be ideal because it is far too hot to be on the lake during the heat of the day. Although carrying a kayak by oneself from the store to the lake and back is challenging, kayaking is a terrific sport. If you’re traveling in a group, it’s simpler to rent a rowboat that is already in the water.
Religious Sites in Pokhara
1. Pema Dechenling Monastery
Cost: Free
Basically, Pema Dechenling Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery with a view of both Phewa Lake and mesmerizing mountain range. To reach to the summit, you must ascend several stairs, but it is worthwhile. Overlooking the lake with wonderful views of the water below is a large golden Buddha statue. Although the vista is spectacular and the Buddha is enormous, this is one of Pokhara’s less well-known attractions. Undoubtedly, you are welcome to visit the monastery.
2. Boating around Tal Barahi Temple in Phewa
Check out the Tal Barahi Temple, which is on a little island at Dam Side on the lake, while you’re out on the water. You may simply rent a boat for an hour or two to enjoy sailing on the lake and visiting the island shrine Tal Barahi with friends or family. Numerous residents go the temple every day, and it is occasionally used for marriages. One of the most sacred sites in Pokhara, the Tal Barahi Temple is a well-liked tourist attraction among locals.
3. See Devi’s Falls (Mysterious Waterfall)
Cost: NPR. 50 rupee Entrance fee (about $0.30 USD)
Knowing that it’s nearly impossible to observe the actual falls, you may visit Devis Falls in Pokhara and be awestruck. It’s surrounded by a huge fence that, for some reason, makes me think of a jail. Due to the uninspiring perspective, for some individuals, it falls short of their expectations. The way the water vanishes before your eyes is peculiar. If you have any free time left while in Pokhara, you should certainly check it out.
4. Explore Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Cost: 100 rupee entrance fee (about $1 USD)
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is located just across from Devi Falls. This is a fairly fantastic location to hang out, in contrast to the falls. It almost seems as though you are in ancient Greece as you make your way down the wide stairs. You must duck through man-made tunnels once you are underground before you can see the Devi Falls from below. On the way to the World Peace Pagoda, this is a good place to pause.
Museums in Pokhara
1. Visit the International Mountain Museum
Cost: NPR. 400 rupees for foreigners (about $5 USD)
This area will leave you in awe if you are interested in learning about old aspects of Nepalese culture, custom, climbing, tourism, etc. It’s incredibly interesting to visit the International Mountain Museum. It depicts the way of life in a mountain community, down to the customary garb worn by each caste.
The majority of visitors enjoy learning about the early climbers and exploring all the gear used to summit some of the highest mountains in the world. Folks genuinely had no clue how people survived their trips with some of the equipment since it appeared to be so antiquated.
2. Gurkha Memorial Museum
The Gurkha Memorial Museum focuses on illuminating Nepal’s historical connections to Gurkha warriors who served in the British and Indian Armies. The show, which has photos, costumes, and medals, would be fascinating to anyone who are interested in history and the military.
3. Annapurna Museum (Annapurna Natural History Museum)
The Prithvi Narayan Campus in Pokhara is where you can find the Annapurna Museum. The exhibits were designed to amuse kids and teach them about the area when it was founded in 1965. The museum’s main focus is natural history, including how the region was produced by tectonic plates, local fossils, and some of the flora and wildlife.
Food Culture in Pokhara
1. Drink Chai in a Local Village
A fantastic selection of hiking paths is available in Pokhara, where you may stop for tea in a rural community close to the city. Locals are kind and will occasionally give it to you for free, especially if you speak a little Nepali, but they may also charge you at other times.
Regardless, stopping mid-hike to soak in the breathtaking vistas is always enjoyable. Even if it’s in the middle of nowhere, you may stop for tea on the road to Sarangkot, the Peace Pagoda, or any other little settlement you come across.
2. Enjoy Tibetan Momo at a Refugee Camps
The natural response when you ask the locals who makes the greatest MOMO is “The Tibetans.” To experience true momo, you may stop by two refugee camps (one on the road to Kusma and the other next to Devi Falls). The two are the greatest momos you’ll ever eat during your visit. Because there is typically a wait for a seat and locals predominately eat there, you can assume they are going to be fantastic. Additionally, they frequently sell out, so arrive early.
3. Try to Make your own Momos
Cost: NPR. 1250 rupee per person (about $12 USD)
You have a sweet opportunity in Pokhara to practice cooking dumplings. Even though the majority of the session is spent studying different ways to seal a dumpling, it undoubtedly highlights your creative talent. It’s a lot of fun to learn this art form; a little bit of cooking class, a little bit of arts and crafts (think playdough).
4. Sky Café and Elevated Dining
At ‘The Cliff’ in Kusma, The Sky Cafe is situated two to two and a half hours west of Pokhara. Your table is essentially hovering in the air, so it’s not a supper for the faint of heart. This adventurous meal would be enjoyable for those who like a little bit of a rush while dining. Due to the fact that it doesn’t require jumping off a bridge and is a more sedate rush than other activities at The Cliff, this is also the kind of activity that people of all ages could enjoy.
Relaxing in Pokhara
1. Enjoy the Lake Walk
Everyone must take a stroll along the lovely small walkway that goes by the lake in Lakeside at least once. A few years ago, it was only a dusty dirt path, but with time, it transformed into a pleasant, waterside park with grass, walkways, and chairs. When all the eateries put on their neon signs at night, the majority of people like taking a stroll there. For both residents and visitors, this is unquestionably one of the most well-liked locations to visit in Pokhara.
2. Get a Massage
In Pokhara, there are several hotels and spa facilities that provide residents and visitors with soothing massages and spa services. The cost of a massage in Pokhara varies based on the length and style of treatment, but it typically costs between $25 and $50. Although you can find massages elsewhere for less money, the quality and amenities will likely be lower.
3. Meditate
While you’re here, you may also give meditation a try. There is an Osho Divine Zone close to a lake that provides a variety of intriguing meditation techniques to explore, such as kundalini and dynamic meditation, which occasionally involves shouting. This is one of Pokhara’s more fascinating tourist attractions, if you’re searching for one. In Kathmandu, you may read about my encounter with the Osho Divine Zone.
4. Rent a Bicycle
Cost: NPR. 200 an hour (about $1.5 USD)
Hiring a few bicycles and simply cruising around town on them is one of the activities that the majority of tourists find soothing. There isn’t a lot of traffic in Lakeside, and if you want a little bit of a challenge, you may ride your bike to Pame Beach (towards the north of Lake Phewa) for lunch. You’ll end up cycling through the surrounding rice fields if you continue past Pame. Although it is largely level, there are occasional hills, so you should hire a mountain bike with gears.
Night Life in Pokhara
1. Catch a Live Band at Pokherili Bars
Cost: Varies based on food and drink
The greatest spots around Lakeside include Busy Bee, Rolling Stones, Kings Lounge, etc. These are the ideal locations to get a beer and listen to live music. This is the place to go if you want to unwind with the locals at a relaxed bar. After work, you’ll see folks relaxing, playing cards, and catching up. If you’re searching for meals or just want to have a drink, we’d suggest the vegetarian burger or veg pakora. On some nights, a well-known neighborhood jazz band performs.
2. Kick Back at the Movie Garden
Cost: $3.50 for the movie plus you can order food and drinks
In Lakeside, there is an outdoor movie theater called The Movie Garden. Due to its location hidden up a hill off the main street, it might be a bit challenging to discover, but once you do, you’ll feel as like you’ve entered another universe. Candlelight illuminates the narrow walkway, and a huge canopy covers the dining area. It’s maybe the nicest location in Pokhara, if not all of Nepal, to visit. Every night, a different film is shown.
Day Hikes Around Pokhara
1. Sunrise Hike to Sarangkot
Cost: NPR. 50 as entrance fee (about $0.50 USD)
If you want to stay in Pokhara for a while, you can try to trek up Sarangkot once or twice a week with your friends or family. At 4:00 in the morning, you can start strolling and find a cloudy sky. When the clouds finally part, you may stroll for two hours to watch the magnificent dawn. You may also take a taxi most of the way up if you don’t want to hike. Everyone’s favorite tourist destination in Pokhara is Sarangkot.
2. The World Peace Pagoda
Cost: Donation
On a clear day, the World Peace Pagoda offers stunning views of the city, the lake, and Annapurna. There are two hiking paths. While the other is only 20 minutes, the first is nearly an hour long. The vistas during the hour-long hike are frequently thought to be rather lovely. Since you’re often on an unpaved road, climbing and navigating aren’t too challenging.
This location is also lovely for watching the beautiful sunset. One of the most visited locations in Nepal is the World Peace Pagoda.
3. Lord Shiva Statue
Cost: Free
On the road to Pumdikot, beyond the World Peace Pagoda, is a 51-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva that was recently built and will be complete in 2021. Although it’s a challenging trek to get here, it’s one of the few day hikes in the region that doesn’t call for a permit for a conservation area. In this essay, we’ll also address the Panchase Hiking Route on one of these days. This path circles Lake Phewa’s southwest shore and takes two to three days.
Day Trips from Pokhara
1. Annapurna Cable Car
Cost: About $11 USD
In 2022, the Annapurna Cable Car first began operating, taking passengers up to Sarangkot. By taking the cable car up in the morning (for a half-day trip) or the afternoon (for an overnight trip), you may watch the paragliders take off, eat breakfast or lunch with a view, and then return to your starting point on the cable car later.
2. Kushma, Parbat
Cost: Varies depending on type of transportation and time of year
You can hire a bike to transport you to Kushma if your main objective is to venture off the beaten path. About two to three hours’ drive separates it from Pokhara city. The longest and tallest suspension bridge in Nepal is located at Kushma. By crossing it, you can assess your fear of heights. Although terrifying, the views from the center are breathtaking. There is a stunning cave nearby as well.
Update: Kushma, Parbat is now a hot spot destination as, ‘The Cliff’ has been established as mecca of adventure sports facilities.
3. Begenas Lake
Cost: Varies depending on type of transportation and time of year.
Pokhara is lovely, but the surrounding surroundings have a lot to offer as well. A less visited lake is about an hour’s drive outside the city. The Himalayas, which tower over the sea, may be seen on clear days. Even though the west side of the lake receives the majority of visitors, there is a stunning sight on the east side.
The finest fish is served at a little eatery that is directly on the water. To locate it, simply search for “Begnas Lake Viewpoint” on Google Maps. You can rent a boat here and travel out on the water.
3. Dovilla
Dovilla is located around 20 minutes’ drive from Lakeside, Pokhara. After multiple Nepali TikTokers shared recordings of the region’s stunning swimming hole, the place gained notoriety. Since it rains a lot here, October and November are the ideal months to visit. You wouldn’t want your journey to be damp the entire time.
Treks Near Pokhara
1. Panchase Trek
The Panchase Trek is a two- to three-day hike that round the southwest shore of Lake Phewa at low elevations. For families and beginners, this simpler trip is ideal. Although you don’t need a conservation permit and it’s a great warm-up for harder treks, you might want to bring a guide because the path isn’t as well-traveled.
2. Poon Hill Trek
Within the Annapurna Conservation Area, there is a 4- to 5-day trek called the Poon Hill Trek. Despite being a shorter trek with a lower altitude, it is very challenging due to the numerous stairs you must climb to get there.
3. Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is a 4-6 days trek that gets you up close with the Annapurna Mountain Range. This is one of the newer and most popular treks within the Annapurna Conservation Area because of its short time frame and epic views.
4. Khopra Danda Trek
Khopra Danda is an off-the-beaten-path trek within the Annapurna Conservation Area. But, if you plan to visit Khopra during monsoon and sadly you won’t get many views. The views seen from this trek on normal and clear days are epic. The Khopra Danda trip takes anywhere between 5 to 10 days depending on your itinerary and walking pace.
5. Annapurna Base Camp ABC Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek takes between 7 and 8 days and is rather difficult. This trek involves a lot of steep uphill climbs despite never reaching 5,000 meters but the views are worth it. This trekking route is also known as one of the first trekking routes in Nepal.
6. Tilicho Lake Trek
The Tilicho Lake Trek is usually combined with the Annapurna Circuit and takes an additional 3 days from that route. This is by far, one of the most beautiful treks to go for when in Nepal. The destination is Lake Tilicho (4919 m) as the lake situated in the highest place in the world.
7. Annapurna Circuit Trek
This trek takes most people 12 days, but you can do a longer version and spend several days in villages that you like. You can take as long as you want in order to experience the tradition, culture, food, views, people etc. Most of the tourists spend a whole month here with the local people to make it an incredible month in the mountains.
Also Read: Best 10+2 Colleges in Kathmandu
How to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu?
Getting from Kathmandu to Pokhara, two of Nepal’s most popular destinations, offers travelers a choice of transportation options. The journey between these cities is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) and can take around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the mode of transportation and road conditions. Here’s how to make the journey:
- By Tourist Bus: Taking a tourist bus is a common and convenient option for traveling between Kathmandu and Pokhara. These buses are relatively comfortable and cater to tourists. They usually have reclining seats and make a few stops along the way for meals and restroom breaks. The bus ride offers scenic views of the countryside and a chance to interact with fellow travelers.
- By Local Bus: Local buses are a budget-friendly option, but they can be crowded and less comfortable compared to tourist buses. The journey might take longer due to frequent stops and road conditions. It’s a more immersive experience if you’re looking to interact with local passengers.
- By Private Vehicle: For a more personalized experience, you can hire a private vehicle such as a car or a van to travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara. This option offers flexibility in terms of stops and travel timings. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with a group or carrying a lot of luggage.
- By Domestic Flight: If you prefer a quicker option, you can take a domestic flight from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport to Pokhara’s Pokhara Airport. Flights are relatively short and take around 25-30 minutes. However, flight schedules can be affected by weather conditions, so it’s recommended to check ahead of time.
- By Tourist Bus + Domestic Flight: Some travelers opt for a combination of tourist bus and domestic flight. They take a tourist bus to Pokhara and then return to Kathmandu by taking a domestic flight. This allows them to experience both road travel and the convenience of air travel.
- Pre-arranged Tours: Many travel agencies and tour operators offer pre-arranged packages that include transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara. These packages often provide a hassle-free experience and may include guided tours and accommodations.
Travel Tips
– It’s advisable to book transportation tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
– Consider taking motion sickness medication if you’re prone to motion sickness, as some parts of the road can be winding.
– Check the weather conditions before traveling, as road and flight schedules can be affected by adverse weather.
– Have some cash on hand for rest stops and meals along the way, as some places may not accept credit cards.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara promises to be an adventure filled with scenic beauty and cultural experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, life as a traveler in Pokhara is a captivating journey that encompasses the best of Nepal’s natural splendor, cultural richness, and adventurous spirit. From the serene shores of Phewa Lake to the majestic vistas of the Annapurna range, every moment spent in this enchanting city is a testament to the beauty of the world we inhabit.
The blend of exciting activities, spiritual exploration, and the warm camaraderie of fellow travelers creates an experience that lingers in the heart and beckons the adventurous spirit to return time and time again. Whether soaring over the landscape in a paraglider or finding solace in the tranquility of a lakeside retreat, Pokhara leaves an indelible mark, reminding us that the true essence of travel lies in the connections we forge with nature, culture, and the people we meet along the way.
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