Popular tourist destination Pokhara is the main tourism hub and the capital of tourism in Nepal. Every year the majority of tourist travel Pokhara to experience the ultimate adventure. Pokhara became a famous tourist destination for trekking (Annapurna Mountain Trek).
Besides trekking, there are many reasons which made Pokhara a must-visit destination for all in South Asia. This Pokhara tour guide will definitely inspire you to explore Pokhara, the peaceful destination in Nepal.
Pokhara is Nepal’s number 1 adventure and leisure city, a trekking gateway to the Annapurna’s with plenty of entertainment for individual travellers as well as families with kids.
Pokhara is Nepal’s second largest city in Nepal and is one of the enjoyable tourist destinations. It is the starting point for most of the treks in the Annapurna region, including the famous Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
In Pokhara you can experience the best in trekking, boating, hiking, pony rides, paragliding or simply relax at one of the lakes near the city.
Pokhara is a beautiful city located in western Nepal, near the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Himalayas.” Pokhara is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as its tranquil lakes, temples, and adventurous outdoor activities.
Here are some of the top sights and activities to include in your Pokhara travel guide:
Phewa Lake: Phewa Lake is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by lush green forests and the Himalayas in the background. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, go fishing, or simply enjoy the view from one of the many cafes and restaurants along the shore.
Annapurna Range: Pokhara is the starting point for many trekking and hiking tours in the Annapurna region, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes.
World Peace Stupa: This beautiful Buddhist stupa is located on a hill overlooking Pokhara and provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Temples and Monasteries: Pokhara is home to several ancient temples and monasteries, including the famous Barahi Temple, which is located on an island in Phewa Lake and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Barahi.
Adventure Activities: Pokhara is a popular destination for adventure activities such as paragliding, bungee jumping, kayaking, and rafting.
Local Culture: Visitors can explore the local culture and markets in Pokhara, and sample traditional Nepalese food, such as momos and dal bhat.
Whether you’re looking for peace and serenity, adventure, or a mix of both, Pokhara has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, it is a must-visit destination in Nepal.
Things to do in Pokhara
Other than that, Pokhara has almost no sights, but the paragliding, the lake and the astonishing views of all the Annapurna Range and the Daulaghiri in a clear sky day are reasons enough not to miss this city.
Hiking & Trekking
Pokhara is well-known as a starting point for various trekking trail and expeditions in the Annapurna . Most of the hikers and trekkers for Annapurna and Ghandruk, respectively, build Pokhara as their first stop, or as relaxing station before they head out for serious walking.
So, one may enjoy boating and reading books observing the serenity of the nature, or enjoy a couple of drinks, either in local restaurants or at a blues bar, or may simply enjoy sightseeing or cycling around the city.
Mountain Biking
Pokhara is very popular for mountain biking and cycles are available pretty much everywhere with prices ranging from between 200 – 500 rps. per day. The stores do not really seem to maintain the bikes particularly well so consider performing an M-Check and be sure pay special attention to the brakes, tyres, chain, gears and even the handlebars before you leave the store.
A popular ride is around the lakeside to “Happy Village” and then as far as the river bed. This can be quite tough owing to very bumpy roads and midday heat so make sure you pace yourself properly.
Volunteering in Pokhara
There are quite a lot of volunteering options in Pokhara from orphanages and monasteries needing English teachers to informal language exchanges. You can either arrange these online through volunteering organizations, workaway or help exchange or you can simply check local notice boards in hostels and restaurants popular with travellers such as Or2K.
Sightseeing at Pokhara
Pokhara is set right next to a beautiful lake. It is really nice to walk next to it, especially around sunset. You can rent boats or kayaks, visit a temple situated in a tiny island or stop for a beer in one of the many bars located along the lake enjoying a sublime view of the lake.
It is the mini-Thamel of Pokhara. Unlike in Kathmandu, here it is far more relaxed, with less traffic and less people bothering you. You can find plenty of Western bars and restaurants plus the typical souvenir shops, bookshops and fake trekking stuff shops. It is also where most of the hotels are.
Paragliding
This is a must-do activity if you visit Pokhara. It is actually said to be the best place in the world to practice this sport. There are hundreds of companies offering paragliding flights all around Pokhara, but the price is fixed by law, so no need to shop around.
You can choose between 3 flight times. Go for the early morning one (around 10), as it is when you have more chances of seeing the Annapurna Range. Normally, from 11 or 12, the clouds start to appear and then you don’t see anything. On the other hand, the later you fly the higher you can go thanks to the air.
Best Time To Visit Pokhara
September to November is a peak tourist season with the maximum number of visitors coming during this period. The weather is pleasant and the skies tend to be clear. The second most visit-friendly time of year is early to mid-May.
Between June and August, is a monsoon season in Pokhara and there is a lot of rain, which makes it not so favourable time to visit. For winter sports fans, given that Pokhara is a base for a lot of adventure sports, December and January can also be considered to visit here.
Kathmandu Car Services is one of the leading car rental company and we have been arranging various car and jeep rental services for Pokhara. Book now and get FREE cancellation on your Cheap Pokhara car rental + pay at pick up to get you the lowest price.
