Pokhara is a city located in the Kaski district and is one of the most famous and most visited cities in Nepal by foreigners. It is the city of lakes. Whether you want your heart to beat fast by adventure or you want peace and relaxation, Pokhara is on the top of the list. Pokhara city offers stunning views of the mountain range of Annapurna and the nightlife of the city for fun and clubbing. Whether you want to do paragliding or boating, it offers both of the activities. Pokhara has everything you look for in a city for a tour. In this article, you’ll learn about things to do in Pokhara .
Hiking in Pokhara
Pokhara has places to hike for people who want to explore nature or are looking for solitude. Pokhara has places that match every fitness level of people from inside the city to the near city area that takes a few hours’ drive to start the hike. The hikes near the city are often peaceful and offer panoramic views of mountains and also the city. Some of the places you can go for a hike are
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World Peace Shanti Stupa: A forest trek to a top-of-the-hill stupa with stunning views of the Phewa Lake and Pokhara city. A classic for a reason.
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Sarangkot Hill: Renowned for sunrises and the takeoff of a superb paragliding experience, Sarangkot has spectacular views of the range of the Annapurna mountains. It is a bit of a hike but a thoroughly worthwhile effort.
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Phewa Lake Loop: If you’re looking for a more easygoing experience, a Phewa Lake walk is nice. The level trails and sparkling water are a calm experience.
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Kahun Danda: With great mountain views and a peek at rural village life with regular homestay arrangements provided, this definitely deserves a visit.
Also remember to check for the weather conditions, be physically prepared, and have all the essential items you need before deciding to go for a hike.
Boating in Pokhara
As Pokhara is the city of lakes, you have to go for boating. There are few lakes that offer boating for people. Some boats even have a little roof to keep you protected from the sun. You can rent them and there is one person who will guide you to the boat. It takes an hourly charge for renting a boat.
Many people do boating in fewa lake cause that has a temple in the middle of the lake called Tal Barahi Temple, which is the reason Phewa lake is a little more crowded than others. People often go to Phewa lake to visit the temple, which is small but very beautiful. But if you want a quieter experience, then you can go for Begnas Lake or Rupa Lake. They both are 15km away from the city; that’s the reason they are much less crowded and also tourists visit Begnas and Rupa when they are coming towards the city or going outside the city.
- Go Explore Phewa Lake: Take a rowing boat or a paddle boat and simply glide across. Do not miss the Tal Barahi Temple.
- Go to Begnas Lake: Famous for being serene and with great views of the mountains. Perfect spot for a picnic as well.
- Find Rupa Lake: It is a quiet place like Begnas and perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Paragliding in Pokhara
Paragliding is an activity that gives you an adrenaline rush with a view and it is a go activity in Pokhara. It feels like flying over the valley with a panoramic view of Annapurna mountain. Well, most of the flights take off from Sarangkot, which is a popular viewpoint. There will be an expert pilot with you during the whole time. The experience of flying over the valley and seeing the panoramic view of mount Annapurna is surreal and truly unforgettable.
Here’s a general idea for you of what to expect for this activity.
- Takeoff: You will take off to Sarangkot, be equipped with the gear, and get a short briefing from your pilot.
- Flight: Buckle up! Flights take between 15 and 30 minutes in duration, depending upon the weather and the thermals. Some pilots will actually do some gentle aerobatics if you wish them to.
- Landing: Aircraft land in proximity to Phewa Lake for a scenically gratifying conclusion.
Remember, booking for paragliding should be done early because it usually is packed during peak season. There is an option for capturing your photo and video during the flight, which you can see later for wholesomeness. There are four places to paraglide so you can compare the expenses to choose the affordable one.
Museums to Visit in Pokhara
While Pokhara is of course all about superb mountain views and thrilling action adventures, it does also possess a few very interesting museums if you'd like to take in a bit of history and culture. The International Mountaineering Museum is an absolute must-visit, and it really does give you a sense of the sheer greatness of the mountains and the climbing history of them. You get to see all sorts of old-fashioned gear that is almost impossibly rudimentary and hear about the early pioneers of the peaks.
And then the Gurkha Museum; it is something special. It shares the history of the Gurkha soldiers and how brave they were, especially in the World Wars. It is a bit of a sobering experience but very impressive at the same time. To see a bit of the regional heritage, you should visit the Pokhara Regional Museum. It is about the first people in the valley and their cultures. And if you are a nature lover, the Annapurna Butterfly Museum has a massive butterfly collection of more than 660 species, I think! It is a great way to pass a few hours and discover something you didn't know about the region.
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International Mountaineering Museum: Discusses the history and culture of climbing the Himalayas.
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Gurkha Museum: Discusses the history and bravery of the Gurkha forces.
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Regional Museum Pokhara: Exhibits regional history and shamanic traditions. Annapurna Butterfly Museum: Houses a magnificent array of domestic butterflies.
Sunrise and Sunset View Trips in Pokhara
Pokhara is at its best when it comes to viewing the daily show of the sky. Seeing the sun set below the horizon or rise above the mountains is a requirement. You've a choice of some top spots to choose from and each has a different feel to it.
Sarangkot is probably the most famous, and for good reason. It’s a bit of a trek or a drive up, but the panoramic views of the Annapurna range are just incredible, especially as the first light hits the peaks. It’s a popular spot for photographers, so expect some company, but it’s totally worth it.
Another excellent option is the World Peace Pagoda. Located on a hill that is above Phewa Lake, the views at this spot are diverse but equally enchanting. You get to watch the sun set above the lake with the golden glow landing on the water and the valley below. It is a more serene experience, more so if you hike up.
If you are looking for something a bit less crowded, try the Kahun Danda. It is a bit more secluded and more private. There are actually homestays around the vicinity too if you'd like to make the experience a one-nighter and experience sunset and sunrise.
Just a quick preview of what you can expect:
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Sarangkot: Best for spectacular views of mountains, a photographer’s heaven.
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World Peace Pagoda: It has excellent views across Phewa Lake and the city.
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Kahun Danda: A quieter, more local experience, good for privacy.
Rafting in Pokhara
If you’re seeking a way to add a bit of adventure to your Pokhara vacation, a day at the Seti River for a bit of whitewater rafting is a great idea. It is not that challenging and is a wonderful activity for the masses, family and friends included. You’ve got the option of a day trip that usually has a picnic lunch at the river or a more extended two-day experience that has you camping overnight.
Just think about it: you’re kayaking through the river with mountains all around you and alternating perspectives of the snow-clad Himalayas at each turn of the river. It’s a rather neat way of experiencing the landscape from a different perspective altogether. Besides, it is a locale ideal for bird-watching too, so do look out for the local and visiting ones while you maneuver the gentle currents.
Just a scant preview of the things to come:
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River: Seti Khola
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Difficulty: Generally mild, family and beginner friendly
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Trip Choices: Day excursions with luncheon or overnight backpacking treks Scenery: Panoramas of the Himalayas, rolling country and diverse
Rafting is also one of the activities that give you an adrenaline rush and a way to enjoy nature.
Village Tours in Pokhara
Another thing you can do is go on tour to visit villages in Pokhara. Pokhara is not just the city of big sights and activities to do. You can explore the local villages away from the city and can enjoy a peaceful environment as well as explore the local culture and traditions. The two popular options to explore could be
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Dhampus Village Hike: This is a classic hike that is frequently attempted as a 1-2 day trek. You will often set off with a short drive to Phedi and then ascend a well-worn trail up to Dhampus. Dhampus village itself is pleasant and from locations such as the nearby Australian Camp, the views into the Annapurna range are simply magnificent. It is a nice opportunity to get a look at the traditional Gurung culture.
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Panchase Village Hike: If you’re looking to do something a bit more different, then you can consider going to Panchase. You're able to begin at Kande or at the World Peace Stupa. The trek itself typically takes you around two days and brings you up to Panchase Peak at a height of around 2,500 meters. With the higher elevation comes the opportunity to get some absolutely magnificent panoramic views of the great Himalayan peaks. Staying at a homestay in the village overnight is encouraged for a more transcendent experience.
These villages are perfect to learn about local culture and tradition. Also, don’t forget to bring your cameras to capture the beautiful moments with your friends and families.
Buddhist Monasteries to Visit in Pokhara
Pokhara is more than the mountains and lakes; you can also get a bit of quiet time at the Buddhist monasteries it has. There are a few sprinkled about the city and surrounding areas that give you a window into Tibetan Buddhist culture and some very interesting architecture. It helps to put a cultural perspective on the vacation.
There are a handful of them you may be interested in reading:
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Matepani Gumba: often named for the views and peaceful atmosphere.
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Pema T'salTsal Monastic Institute: Famous for offering classic Tibetan Buddhist teachings and traditions.
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Jangchub Choeling Monastery: An important monastery housing numerous monks.
There is something distinctive about every site, and you will get to know quite a bit about the local Buddhist culture by strolling around and taking it in. Some actually try and see a few in a day or more if they’re extremely keen on taking it all in. It is a relief from the more active excursions Pokhara is famous for.
Exploring Caves and Davi’s Fall in Pokhara
Pokhara is more than just the mountains and the lakes, you know? There is an entire underground world that is ready to be explored and that is actually quite awesome. Davi’s Fall, another name being Patale Chhango, is where the Phewa Lake outflow takes a very dramatic plunge. It is somewhat of a natural marvel with the water vanishing into an unknown underground tunnel. There is a legend that a Swiss tourist named Davi had slipped and fallen in and been taken downstream and that is where the name originates from.
Directly across from the falls is the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. You actually descend a long set of stairs and it feels like you're going into another world. There is a natural rock that is worshiped in the form of a Shiva lingam, and folks come here to pray. What is really cool is that you actually get to access a section of the cave that is directly behind the waterfall. You get to actually see Davi's Fall from the inside of the cave, and that is a very different viewpoint. Just be warned, it does get a bit damp in there!
There are a few other caves that are well worth a visit.
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Mahendra Cave: This is named after a king and has quite simple corridors. It is well-lit and has nice limestone formations to see.
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Bat Cave: If you feel a bit of a thrill-seeker, this is where you will find loads of bats. It is a bit eerie and the bottom of the cave is slippery so boots are a necessity.
A good pair of shoes is a guarantee because at certain spots the footing is a bit slick. It is a different type of adventure from a boat tour or a hike but certainly a memorable experience.
Shopping in Pokhara
Pokhara has a fairly respectable shopping scene, at least to the extent that you're looking for souvenirs or adventure gear. New Road is the main road and is lined with stores that sell anything from fashion-forward clothing to Nepali trinkets and trappings. There are jewelers there too if you're that type of guy or gal. For treks and Tibetan crafts, Lakeside is where you definitely want to go. It's where most of the travelers go for that type of gear.
If you're looking for something really special and want to contribute to a community at the same time, going to one of the Tibetan refugee centers is a great idea. Tashi Ling camp is a great one to visit to find custom carpeting, jewelry, and carvings. It is a great opportunity to get a look at the craftsmanship and purchase a keepsake at the same time that you're supporting it.
Following is a short description of shopping hotspots:
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New Road: Tailoring, jewelry shops, general stores.
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Lakeside: Trekking gear, souvenirs, and Tibetan handicrafts.
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The Tibetan Refugee Settlements (e.g., Tashi Ling): Craft production, carpet-weaving, jewelry-making, communal.
Pokhara has a decent selection of items so you’re typically able to find the items you’re after, be it practical gear or something small to take back and remember the trek with.
Mountain Biking Tours Around Pokhara
Pokhara is a perfect destination for anyone with a liking for riding, motorbikes or mountain bikes being no exception. The city itself is a perfect starting point for a variety of adventures. You can take a leisurely ride round Phewa Lake or a bit more of a challenge and ride up to Begnas Lake. If you're after a test of the mettle, you can find trails that ascend into the hills at Sarangkot. These tours offer a perfect way of gaining a sense of the diverse landscape that exists in and around Pokhara.
If you've got a motorbike, the possibilities really open up. Jungles to cross through, open landscape to cover and you're actually able to get up to Jomsom or up to Tilicho Lake, famous for their apple orchards. Some riders go that bit further up to Manang or Mustang. It is a very popular activity, with a great many coming to Pokhara each year just to ride.
There are trails of different skill levels for the mountain bicyclists. Half-day and day tours can be booked and they can usually be customized to whatever you feel at ease with. Bicycling is another easy transport system to get around and take in the views surrounding Phewa Lake.
Bungee and Zipline in Pokhara
If you’re in the market for a hardcore adrenaline fix, Pokhara has you taken care of with some pretty extreme bungee and ziplining opportunities. These are no backyard stands; we’re talking world-class thrills.
Lots of folks do the combo of the two activities because the bungee platform is typically at the far end of the zipline. It is a pretty dramatic one-two thrill punch. The zipline itself is billed as one of the longest and fastest in the world. Picture this: you’re soaring through the trees at great velocities with world-class vistas in all directions. It is a brief but intense thrill ride that typically only takes a minute or two at a time.
And then there is the actual bungee jump. It is a fabricated setup, but the descent is considerable, providing that great free-fall feel. It is not for the timid at heart but the afterglow is purported to be incredible.
The following is a brief preview of the proceedings:
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Zip line: Said to be one of the longest and fastest in the world at up to 72 mph (116 km/h).
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Bungee Jump: A substantial drop, typically around 75 meters, offering a few seconds of pure free fall.
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Combination: There are many operators that sell combination packages that allow you to do both activities in one day.
Hot Air ballooning in Pokhara
Want a completely different view of Pokhara? Hot-air ballooning is a new but very popular activity in Pokhara. Float across the valley in a peaceful balloon flight with the scenery of the range of the Annapurna spread in front of you and Phewa Lake glittering below you. It is a very peaceful activity that is a great way of enjoying the magnificent views without the thrill of other adventure activities.
The flight itself takes a little under an hour but depends on the condition of the wind and the type of package that you've chosen. There is the option of a group flight or a more private experience and is perfect for celebrations of anniversaries or maybe a wedding proposal. The best time is when it is not the monsoon season, between the months of June and August, because clear skies are a necessity for the activity.
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Best time to visit: Throughout the year except the rainy season (June-August).
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Flight time: Around 1 hour in favorable weather.
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Booking: Group or private flight bookings are frequently offered.
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What to anticipate: Gradual rise, stunning views from up high, and a memorable experience.
Short Trekking From Pokhara
Pokhara is a great base from which to explore the Annapurna region and you don't need to take weeks off to enjoy its magic. There are many short treks that enjoy spectacular mountain views and a flavor of Nepali rural life without needing a great deal of time. These treks are ideal if you're short of time or simply fancy a short introduction to the Himalayas.
These treks take anything from two to nine days to do. You truly get to see the landscape and the culture. The Poon Hill trek is a classic for a reason and ranges from about two to four days and does you the favor of giving you amazing sunrise views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).
Here are a few popular options to consider:
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Panchase Trek: Panchase is a quite easy trek that takes up roughly 2-3 days and encircles the southwest of Phewa Lake. It is a great introduction to the rural villages and mountain sceneries.
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Dhampus and Australian Camp Trek: A busy but rewarding option that is feasible in 2-3 days and has excellent up-close views of the range of casual strolls around Annapurnas. You will pass through pretty Gurung villages.
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Royal Trek: So named because Prince Charles is supposed to have followed it, this 3-day trek is praised for its cultural experience and superb scenery, going through the villages of Kalimati, Begnas, and Rupakot.
Conclusion
And that is it, things to do to while away the hours in Pokhara. It is no wonder that the town wins so many hearts. Whether you seek adventure up in the mountains, calm on the water, or simply immersing yourself in the region's culture, Pokhara is a destination that very definitely has something for everyone. It is a destination that welcomes you to get lost and relax and maybe find a new you in the process. Do not simply do the lake but get out and do something different and make some of your own memories in this stunning corner of the country of Nepal.
FAQs
1. What are the must-do activities in Pokhara?
Pokhara has plenty to offer. You can hike, take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, or experience the thrill of adventure sports like ziplining and paragliding. Watching the sunrise or sunset at Sarangkot is also a big attraction. And of course, opportunities to experience local culture in museums and village tours exist too.
2. Is Pokhara perfect for adventures?
Yes! Pokhara is the adventure hub. Fly like a bird using a paraglide, feel the thrill of ziplining, or enjoy a whitewater rafting adventure in the Seti River. There is bungee jumping too and you might experience flight in an ultralight plane for a bird's-eye view.
3. What are the nature adventures I could do in Pokhara?
Nature lovers will love Pokhara. You get to take peaceful boat rides across Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, or Rupa Lake. Trekking up viewpoints like Sarangkot or the World Peace Stupa gets you stunning views of the mountains. You get to take mountain bikes through the mountains too.
4. Is cultural activity present in Pokhara?
Yes, Pokhara is culturally rich. Unique museums like the International Mountaineering Museum or the Gurkha Museum are places you may wish to visit. Visits to Buddhist monasteries, the Tibetan Refugee Camp to witness handicrafts, and a Nepalese cooking demonstration are great experiences to get a feel of the culture of the nation.
5. What are the things to do in Pokhara?
If you feel like unwinding, Pokhara is the ideal destination. You could take a serene boat ride, a yoga and meditation seminar, or a rejuvenating massage. A casual stroll around Lakeside and taking in the views of the mountains is another very relaxing activity.
6. May I go shopping in Pokhara?
Indeed, shopping in Pokhara is a hit! New Road is a bustling street with many cloth and jewelry shops. Lakeside is the place to visit for trekking gear and distinctive Tibetan crafts. Interesting souvenirs can also be had from the Tibetan Refugee Camp.
7. What is the best time to go to Pokhara?
Best time to travel is autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). It is clear and you get to see mountains and enjoy outdoor activities. Winter is also good if you like it cold and quiet.
8. Can I see the Himalayas from Pokhara?
Yes! Pokhara has stunning views of the range of mountains that it is surrounded by: the Annapurna range, Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), and Dhaulagiri Sun.
9. What is the best day trip from Pokhara?
Good day excursions include visiting Begnas Lake, Devi’s Fall, the Gupteshwor Cave, and the World Peace Pagoda. Others may venture into nearby Dhampus and Ghandruk villages.
10. Is Pokhara a suitable trekking base?
Indeed. Pokhara is the gate to popular treks such as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Annapurna Base Camp, and the Annapurna Circuit.
11. Can you go cave exploring in Pokhara?
In fact, Pokhara has natural caves, and they are the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, the Mahendra Cave, and the Bat Cave, where you actually see the stalactites and the stalagmites and also underground temples.
12. What type of cuisine is available in Pokhara?
There is a serving of Nepali, Tibetan, and foreign dishes in Pokhara. Lakeside cafés offer dal bhat, momos, thukpa, Tibetan bread, or foreign dishes for purchase. Do not forget to sample fresh Himalayan coffee.
13. How long should I stay in Pokhara?
2-3 days is OK to see the spots, but it is ideal if you spend at least 5-7 days to experience the trekking, adventures, and relaxation.
14. Is Pokhara family-friendly and appropriate for kids?
Yes, Pokhara is family-friendly. Children enjoy boat rides, easy treks, caves, and easy walks around Lakeside. Adventure activities also accommodate the family-friendly kind with cycling or canoeing options.
15. Can I experience nightlife in Pokhara?
Absolutely! Lakeside has a very active nightlife with bars, live performances, cultural performances, and eateries. It is less hectic compared to Kathmandu but has a lively zest of fun.