Top Things to do in Pokhara

The second-largest city in the Kaski district is Pokhara. It is situated 900 meters above sea level, 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu, in Nepal’s western region.

It is the second most popular tourist destination in Nepal and is renowned for its serene ambiance and picturesque natural surroundings.

The Seti Gandaki river flows through Pokhara, creating several gorges inside the city and surrounding area. Pokhara is located on the banks of Phewa Lake.

Pokhara is renowned for being a lake city. The main draw in Pokhara is the lakes, particularly Phewa Lake and Begnas Lake.

Similar to that, three of the ten highest mountains in the world may be seen in stunning detail from this location (Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manasalu). The symbol of the city is the Machhapuchhre (“Fishtail”).

Pokhara, on the other hand, has a rich natural and cultural heritage. Sarangkot, one of Pokhara’s endowed natural locations, offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset.

Additionally, you will see Mounts Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchare, and Annapurna up close for the first time. In Pokhara, there are many temples and gompas, including Taal Barahi, Bindabasini, and the stupa for global peace.

In recent years, Pokhara has become Nepal’s tourism hub.

Top things to do in Pokhara

Pokhara is a city with fantastic lakeside cafe views of the river and mountains, pleasant walks, and a laid-back atmosphere. Pokhara serves as the starting point for many visitors taking Nepali tours. The tourist hub of Pokhara is lakeside.

Other popular activities in Pokhara include climbing to the global peace stupa, paragliding, and taking in the dawn from Sarangjot. Additionally, Pokhara offers superior lodging choices, and eateries serving anything from delicious Dal Bhat and regional cuisine to upscale coffee shops and excellent pizzerias.

This well-known tourist destination provides its tourists with a variety of amenities.

Enjoy Boating in Tranquil Phewa Lake

The second-largest lake in Nepal is Phewa Lake, where boating is one of the available recreational activities. The tourism hub of Pokhara is this stunning green lake.

Similarly, taking a boat on the lake will allow you to see a lot of birds paddling around the little island that is home to Pokhara’s most well-known Hindu temple, Tal Barahi Temple.

The brightly decorated boats are available for paddling around the lake. At Lakeside, you can hire both the boats and the boatman.

Boating can be done for 45 to 60 minutes. Boating around the lake allows you to take in the stunning scenery and the surrounding dense forest.

Additionally, you will be able to view Mt. Machhapuchhre reflected in the Phewa Lake’s freshwater. You may view magnificent paragliding and ultralight sceneries from the lake.

Watch The sunrise view from Sarangkot

The sunrise vista from Sarangkot is one of Pokhara’s other must-do attractions. The best location to view the Annapurna range is without a doubt Sarangkot.

Sarangkot is undoubtedly Pokhara’s most breathtaking vantage point and an excellent place to see the sunrise.

However, you must rise very early and take a 40-minute taxi ride from Pokhara to Sarangkot to see the early sunrise.

The Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna II, Lamjung, and other spectacular Himalayan peaks may all be seen in unbroken, panoramic vistas from this vantage point.

Paragliding with Stunning Mountain Backdrop

Paragliding is one of the adventure sports that are popular in Pokhara, Nepal.

Pokhara, one of the top five tandem paragliding locations in the world, is renowned for its steady thermals, simple take-off, and landing locations, vast lake safety, and stunning Himalayan scenery.

On the other hand, Pokhara’s paragliding, which is a 30-minute adventure ride, lifts you in the air. The experience is worthwhile because it enables guests to create long-lasting memories while having the most excitement possible.

Regardless of age, one could be a beginner or an expert.

You are eligible for this fantastic experience if your physical health is good. Paragliding in Pokhara is enjoyable regardless of the outcome. An insurance cover is also included in the package.

Pokhara Valley, which rises to a height of 1592 meters, appears different from views from the ground, as well as from the enormous Annapurna mountain range, Mount Everest’s peaks, and even Mount Fishtail.

By landing close to a location at Phewa Lake, one can quickly reach the wonderful moments while cherishing every tiny observation from a great height.

In light of this, paragliding in Pokhara is a fantastic flying experience that provides breathtaking views of temples, lakes, and jungles in addition to the beautiful Mount Fishtail, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri Himalayan range.

Adrenaline Bungee Jumping in Pokhara

Pokhara has more to offer than just beautiful natural landscapes for those who appreciate the outdoors. Bungee jumping is one of the adventurous activities that it is renowned for.

Adventure seekers must try this strenuous sport in Pokhara, where they can experience the wind’s rush as they jump from a height of 525 feet.

Only 25 minutes separate the bungee jump location in Hemja from Lakeside, Pokhara. Third-highest natural jump worldwide, it. giving a 3-second free fall after a 75-meter vertical drop.

You will enjoy an amazing flying experience and an amazing view of the Pokhara Valley.

Experience Adrenaline White Water River Rafting near Pokhara

Travel and trekking are popular in Pokhara. In addition, it is among the top locations for adventure sports.

The river water is directly flown from the Himalayas since it is perfect for rafting and other sports and has stunning scenery and peaks.

Similar to the rivers, which are long and pure and are encircled by spectacular mountain, hill, and jungle vistas. Most tourists that go white water rafting for one day base themselves in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Therefore, you can do white water rafting in or around Pokhara. From Pokhara, one may go rafting on the following rivers:

Kali Gandaki River Rafting

The Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, is traversed by this river as it rushes downward. Rafting on the Kali Gandaki River is possible from Pokhara.

This mid-length rafting adventure is a fantastic chance to discover Nepal’s topography. This adventure activity has two starting points: Maldhunga, which is 3.5 hours from Pokhara, and Mirmi, which is 5 hours from Pokhara.

You will experience thrilling class 3 and 4 rapids while paddling over the 55-kilometer-long river, which will make your heartbeat. The guides are frequently warm and skilled.

Upper Seti river rafting

A 30-minute drive from Pokhara’s Lakeside brings you on a class III+/IV rapids rafting excursion that delivers one and a half hours of nonstop adrenaline-filled action.

The best half-day rafting experience in Nepal offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountains, pristine Himalayan whitewater, and a stunning gorge ornamented with a prayer flag and suspension bridge.

Marsyangdi river rafting

For those seeking a challenging and exhilarating white water rafting experience, Marsyangdi is the perfect option. Some of the world-class rapids found in Nepal are shared by the stunning white water rafting.

It also offers vistas of some of the Himalayas’ most stunning mountains. You can enjoy tremendous, difficult, and continuous crystal-clear whitewater rapids on the river.

Enjoy the delicious Lunch at Cafe

Better cafes, restaurants, and hotels may be found all across Pokhara. You can get a delectable lunch from the cafés and eateries. For foodies, Pokhara is a culinary wonderland.

There are many enchanted hidden locations in this city where you can have lunch while taking in a broad view of the surroundings.

You can enjoy the greatest meals and the nicest view of the Phewa lake with its reflection of Mount Machhapuchhre and Dhauligiri at the cafes that are close to the lakesides.

This city offers a vast range of delectable foods, from Italian and European to Nepali and Indian cuisines, to satisfy the culinary preferences of many various nations.

Witnessing the Annapurna Range from Pokhara

A well-known city with a mountainous backdrop is Pokhara. Pokhara is sometimes referred to as the “City of Lakes” because it is home to various beautiful lakes.

Along with the lake, the city’s sloped topography and view of the magnificent Himalayan range are fascinating features.

From every part of the city, the hazy Himalayas offer stunning views. One of the mountain ranges that can be seen from the entire city is the Annapurna Himal range.

The Annapurna mountain range is Pokhara’s crowning achievement, whether viewed from Sarangkot’s vantage point or the bottom of Phewa Lake. Pokhara serves as the beginning point for the Annapurna Circuit hike.

From Pokhara, the breathtaking views of the Annapurna range will astound you.

Hike to the World Peace Pagoda

One of Pokhara’s cultural highlights is the World Peace Stupa. This stupa, which is more than 1000 meters above sea level, is also known as Shanti Stupa.

The Sanskrit worShantiti translates to “peace” in Nepali. As a representation of peace, the stupa shrine was erected. One can see the entire city of Pokhara, the Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna Himalayan range from the stupa’s summit.

This stupa was constructed by Nipponzan Myohoji and Pokharan locals. The white stupa, which is perched atop the hill, is listed as the second most popular attraction in Pokhara on Trip Advisor.

Starting from the Phewa Lake Damside, a short climb leads to Pokhara’s World Peace Stupa.

The amazing white pagoda may then be seen uphill after two hours of walking from Lakeside along the trails through the forest.

Additionally, you arrive at the Pardi Khola bridges. After crossing the bridge, the path then divides. We’ll proceed through the right side on a steep stone path.

After passing a small brick shrine on the left and ascending the normal step, a spectacular view of Phewa Lake can be viewed. The world peace stupa will then be reached after traveling through cafes and hotels.

The stupa is all white, which gives it a calmer appearance.

You may enjoy a stunning view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre from the stupa.

Then, start boating at the lovely Phewa lake by descending steeply along the paved road with cut stone steps, passing through many forests and nearby settlements.

Evening Walk on the shores of Phewa Lake

How can anyone overlook taking a stroll in the sunset along Phewa Lake’s shoreline when discussing Pokhara?

A freshwater lake in Nepal is called Phewa Lake. After Rara Lake, it is the second-largest lake in Nepal. The temple is located in the middle of the lake, which is unique to Nepal.

Taal Barahi is the name of the temple. Similar to that, this lake has an area of around 4.43 km2 and is situated at a height of 742 m. Its maximum depth is 24 m, and its average depth is roughly 8.6 m.

Similarly, one of the most delightful experiences for visitors to Pokhara is strolling along the edge of a serene lake with colorful paddle boats.

Phewa Lake and the lakeside have much more vibrant and bustling evening life. There are illuminated parks, hotels, nightclubs, and bars where the best rock and cultural performances are presented.

More than just wonderful evenings with delicious meals and a stunning view of the lakes involved in strolling around Phewa Lake. You’ll experience dining outdoors while savoring the meal in a colorful setting with lights.

Additionally, you can find many types of refreshments while strolling along the lake’s coast in the evening. Consequently, strolling along the lake’s edge at dusk is a lovely experience.

Explore the Caves of Pokhara

In addition to the lakes and views of the Himalayas, Pokhara is widely known for its caves. The notable caverns, including Mahendra, Gupteshwor, and Bats Cave, are highly fascinating to tourists.

Additionally, a number of other caverns, including Kumari Cave and Harihar Cave, are under danger of going extinct.

Mahendra Cave

Mahendra cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pokhara Metropolitan City, both for local and foreign visitors. The villagers built a 125-meter-long cave around 1951 AD.

King Mahendra eventually visited the cave, known by its former name of “Adhere Bhuwan,” after reading about it in the media. In 1959 A.D., he gave the cave the name Mahendra. Since then, this cave has seen a large influx of tourists.

Gupteshwor cave

In Pokhara, Gupteswar Cave, a popular destination for pilgrims, lies adjacent to Davis Falls. The cave is split into two sections, the first of which is only 9,992 feet long and the second of which is close to one kilometer long.

Visitors cannot enter the second section, though. One of the main tourist attractions for domestic and foreign religious travelers is a Shiva temple inside the cave.

Bat Cave

For those looking for a simple adventure, Pokhara’s Bat Cave, also known as Chamero Gufa, is the ideal location. As the name suggests, the cave’s dark, gloomy, and moist chambers are home to tens of thousands of bats that are thriving there.

Horseshoe bats like these are typically spotted hanging upside down on the ceilings of dark caverns. In the end, one needs to squeeze through a little opening.

However, people who from claustrophobia may find this cave to be rather cramped.

Trek From Pokhara

Pokhara, as we are all aware, is the ideal location for exploring the environment and natural resources. There are several locations where individuals can experience nature at its finest.

It is a popular tourist destination thanks to the captivating Himalayan peaks and the sparkling Phewa and Begnas lakes. From Pokhara, you can go on various treks in addition to sightseeing.

Pokhara serves as the beginning point for all of these treks, from the scenic and cultural trip to Ghorepani to the astonishingly long and quick trek to Annapurna.

Short Trek | Ghorepani Poon Hill

The most well-known and very simple journey to the lovely ethnic village in the Annapurna region is the Ghorepani Ponhill Trek. You can experience the Himalayan landscape while on this walk and get a close-up look at the way of living there.

A fantastic journey that gives you the chance to see Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna, and other Himalayan ranges up close is Ghorepani Poonhill.

You may explore the Gurung and Magar communities in Ghandruk and Ulleri in addition to the surrounding natural environment.

The greatest elevation on this trekking path is 3210 meters, and it is located in the Annapurna region. Anyone in excellent health should be able to complete this modest trek successfully.

The journey from Pokhara to Nayapul takes an hour and a half. After that, hike for roughly 4-5 hours from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga.

The following trekking location will be Ghorepani, which is at a height of 2874m. View the breathtaking natural scenery, as well as a panoramic view of the highlands and the Himalayas, from Ghorepani.

Then, after a five-hour trek to Poonhill and Tadapani, you’ll arrive in Ghandruk, a well-known Gurung village. After spending some time in Ghandruk, drive to Pokhara from Nayapul and then return on foot.

The journey offers you a rare chance to come up close to nature and see village life that hasn’t been affected by modernization.

You may take a priceless photo in Poonhill and catch the best views of the magnificent Himalayan peaks from this location. However, this walk is comparatively shorter and simpler.

So, if you’re short on time but yet want to experience the best of nature, the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is a good option.

Long Trek | Annapurna Base Camp

The Annapurna Base Camp package is ideal for seeing the breathtaking Nepalese Himalayas, varied topography, natural landscapes, as well as Nepalese culture and customs.

The drive to Nepal’s Himalayas is spectacular. This journey offers us the opportunity to experience a variety of wildlife, plants, and cultural traditions in addition to a breathtaking up-close view of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Himchuli, and Dhauligiri.

The national flower, the rhododendron, and other lovely blossoms can be seen along the trip in the spring. The walk also offers the chance to see the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the deepest gorge in the world.

After an hour and a half of driving from Pokhara to Nayapul, which is at an elevation of 1070m, the base camp walk to Annapurna begins.

then proceed via a number of Syauli and Deurali villages before arriving at the base camp at a height of 4130m. A trek to the base camp of the tenth-highest mountain in the world is the Annapurna base camp trek.

As a result, it is a moderately difficult walk that may be completed by hikers with a reasonable level of physical fitness.

Long Trek | Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna circuit transports us to a place with a wide variety of topography, culture, and animals as well as a breathtaking view of the Himalayas. It is undoubtedly one of Nepal’s simpler and quicker treks.

The circuit hike traverses the highest pass at Thorung La to circle the entire Annapurna range in central Nepal (5416m). The Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world, is traversed during the walk around the Annapurna mountain range.

The breathtaking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna I, II, III, and IV, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Himchuli, and Lamjung are all part of the circuit trek to Annapurna.

On the other hand, the circuit walk brings us to Manang, Mustang, and Muktinath, three well-known tourist destinations in the Himalayan region.

The Annapurna Region’s unique culture, natural plants, geology, and climate zones can all be experienced.

This difficult hike follows the valley of the Marsyangdi river, passing through various villages in Jagat, Dharapani, and Chame before arriving at Pisang.

Additionally, the trek provides acclimatization by passing through various Tibetan communities. The trek then takes us past Thorung Phedi to the 5416m-high Thorong La Pass before arriving at Muktinath.

Drive to Tatopani from Muktinath and then ascend to Ghorepani Poonhill to observe the culture and traditions of the primarily Gurung and Magar residents.

Similarly, you can drive to Pokhara after hiking from Poon Hill to Birethanti.

Buy souvenirs in Pokhara

Pokhara is known for its trekking and sightseeing, but there are also numerous locations where visitors may buy and acquire unique items to take home as a souvenir.

You would therefore love to save a memento from a location that will always hold a special place in your heart. It’s simple to go shopping or pick up a souvenir in Pokhara. The neighborhood stores can be found all along the street.

You won’t have any trouble finding the location. You can browse handicrafts, Tibetan rugs, and other products.

So, here is a list of items that are simple to find in Pokhara as mementos.

Tibetan rugs

• Handicrafts items
• Silver handicrafts jewelry
• Handmade bags
• Pure pashmina
• Yak wool handicrafts
• Handmade clothes like sweaters, shawls, and bags.