Things To Do
in Pokhara
Pokhara is a breathtaking lakeside city set against a backdrop of emerald hills and the Annapurna range. It serves as Nepal's adventure gateway, offering easy access to trekking, paragliding, and serene boat rides on its tranquil lake. The town blends relaxed cafés, bustling markets, and sacred sites within easy reach of nature.
Its welcoming atmosphere and natural beauty make it a favorite stop for travelers exploring the Annapurna region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Phewa Lake, where the serene waters reflect the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a traditional Nepali breakfast at a lakeside café, savoring dishes like dal bhat and fresh fruit. As the sun rises, take a moment to appreciate the tranquility and the vibrant local life beginning to stir around you.
After breakfast, rent a kayak and paddle across Phewa Lake, exploring the picturesque Tal Barahi Temple situated on an island. Spend some time hiking up to the World Peace Pagoda, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the lake below. Capture the moment with photographs as you marvel at the beauty of nature surrounding you.
As the day winds down, return to the lakeside for a sunset boat ride, where the sky is painted with hues of orange and purple. Relish a delightful dinner at one of the local restaurants, indulging in authentic Nepali cuisine and perhaps some momo dumplings. End your evening by strolling along the shore, soaking in the serene atmosphere and the twinkling lights of the lakeside cafes.
Begin your day with an exhilarating paragliding experience, launching from the Sarangkot viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Feel the adrenaline rush as you soar through the skies, with the stunning Phewa Lake below you. After landing, enjoy a celebratory breakfast at a nearby café, recounting the thrill of your adventure.
Post-paragliding, take a leisurely hike down from Sarangkot, exploring the local villages and interacting with friendly residents. Visit a local school or community center to learn about the educational initiatives in the area and the culture of the Gurung people. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the lush greenery and stunning vistas.
Return to Pokhara and relax at your hotel, perhaps enjoying a spa treatment or a refreshing swim. As dusk falls, head to the lakeside for a delightful dinner, sampling locally brewed beverages and traditional dishes. Conclude your day by gathering around a bonfire, sharing stories with fellow travelers under a starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and easy access to the Annapurna region
- Wide range of outdoor activities including paragliding, boating, and trekking
- Crowds during peak season around Lakeside
- Air and road congestion can be challenging in peak hours
- Occasional power and water outages in older parts
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Mero naam [your name] ho" - My name is [your name]
- "Kripaya" - Please
- "SannOi? Tapainlaai kasto chha?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Pokhara
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene lake reflecting the surrounding hills, with Barahi Temple on a small island in the center.
A classic vantage for sunrise over the Annapurna range with the lake visible in the foreground.
A hilltop stupa offering expansive Himalayan and lake views, especially striking at golden hour.
A dramatic duo of a waterfall flowing into a cavern and the stalactite-filled cave beyond.
Less-crowded lakes with forested hills and boat scenes for tranquil landscape photography.
Food in Pokhara
Pokhara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, widely available in Lakeside eateries.
Must-Try!
Rice served with lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles; a Nepali staple enjoyed daily.
Fermented leafy greens served with spices; tangy and traditional.
Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables or meat; comforting and broth-rich.
A sweet, ring-shaped bread fried in oil; a festival favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market with fresh produce, spices, and snacks; great for authentic street bites.
Stalls along the lakefront offering momos, noodles, fried rice, and chai with views of the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Namaste with palms pressed together; show respect to elders and monks.
Dress modestly at temples; remove shoes where required and avoid loud behavior near sacred spaces.
Ask permission before taking portraits of people; be polite in sacred or private spaces.
Keep noise to a minimum in residential areas and near religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Pokhara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; round up bills or leave 5-10% in restaurants and for guides.
Cash is widely used; many places accept cards in tourist zones; mobile wallets like eSewa and Khalti are common for smaller payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies and blooming rhododendrons; ideal for trekking and photography.
Warm days with high humidity and lush greenery; occasional afternoon showers.
Heavy rainfall from June to September; trails can be muddy and landslides possible; carry waterproof gear.
Cool to cold mornings and evenings; foggers can limit visibility; pleasant for lower-elevation visits.
Pokhara at Night
Hiking in Pokhara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hike with sunrise views over the Annapurna range.
Moderate trek through pine forests ending at a grassy camp with alpine scenery.
Quieter lake-side trails with village scenes and forested hills.
Popular Annapurna region village hike with cultural experiences and close-up views of the peaks.
Airports
How to reach Pokhara by plane.
Located near the city, serving domestic flights and select international routes.
Kathmandu's main international hub; used for long-haul flights and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of Nepali communities alongside trekkers and expatriates.
International travelers visiting for trekking, lakeside leisure, and adventures.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A top adventure sport here; soar over Pokhara and the Annapurna range.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pokhara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can easily find dal bhat, momo fillings, and veggie curries; request no meat stock or ghee if needed.