Things To Do
in Pokhara
Pokhara, Nepal is a picturesque town located at the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range and serene lakes. Adventure seekers flock to Pokhara for activities like trekking, paragliding, and white-water rafting.
The laid-back atmosphere, vibrant local culture, and welcoming people make Pokhara a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.
- "Timi lai kasto chha?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Ma sanchai chhu" - I am fine
- "Kripaya" - Please
- "Tapaiko naam ke ho?" - What is your name?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake, where you can enjoy the stunning reflections of the mountains. Visit the Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the lake for a moment of tranquility.
Head to the International Mountain Museum to learn about the region's mountaineering history and culture. Grab lunch at a local café offering traditional Nepali cuisine.
Stroll along the lakeside promenade and soak in the vibrant atmosphere as the sun sets. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the illuminated lake.
Embark on a short trek to Sarangkot for an unforgettable sunrise experience over the Annapurna range. Capture stunning photos as the sky transforms with vibrant colors.
After descending, treat yourself to a hearty lunch at one of the outdoor cafés. Spend the afternoon paragliding over Pokhara for a thrilling bird’s-eye view of the landscape.
Wind down with a leisurely walk around the lakeside, taking in the cool evening breeze. Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with views of the Annapurna mountain range.
- A peaceful and serene environment, ideal for relaxation.
- Ideal location for adventure sports like paragliding, trekking, and boating.
- Rich cultural experiences with local traditions and festivals.
- Numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops catering to tourists.
- Infrastructural challenges, including road conditions and public transport.
- Tourist season can lead to overcrowding in popular areas.
- Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
- Environmental concerns, including waste management and deforestation.
- Risk of natural disasters such as landslides and earthquakes.
Best Activities in Pokhara
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the thrill of soaring through the skies while paragliding over the scenic landscapes of Pokhara.
Explore the picturesque trails around Pokhara, such as the Annapurna Circuit or the Poon Hill trek, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
Relax and enjoy the serene beauty of Phewa Lake by renting a boat and paddling around its calm waters.
Discover the countryside and quaint villages of Pokhara on two wheels by exploring the cycling routes in the area.
Places to Visit in Pokhara
Visit one of these nice places.
Popular spot for sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna range.
Offers stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and is a great spot for boating.
Provides panoramic views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara valley.
Features a waterfall inside the cave and offers unique photo opportunities.
Known for its serene atmosphere and overlooks the entire Pokhara city.
Requires a trek, but offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and sunrise.
Food in Pokhara
Pokhara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Nepali meal consisting of steamed rice and a lentil soup, accompanied by vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat. It's a staple dish and can be found in numerous local eateries such as Moondance Restaurant and Pokhara Thakali Kitchen.
Must-Try!
These steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables are a popular snack or light meal. The Mom's Kitchen and Busy Bee Cafe are well-known spots to savor delicious momos.
For a truly authentic taste of local food, try Newari dishes like Bara (black lentil pancake) and Yomari (sweet dumpling) at places like Nani's Kitchen and Maya Devi Village Restaurant.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers an array of street food options, from freshly grilled skewers and spicy potato patties to local sweets and refreshing smoothies. The Lakeside area is also dotted with food stalls serving up local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pokhara, Nepal, it is respectful to greet people with the traditional greeting 'Namaste', with a slight bow and the palms together in front of the chest.
Visitors should be mindful and respectful when visiting sacred sites in Pokhara, such as temples and monasteries. It is important to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering these sites.
Respect for elders is a significant cultural norm in Pokhara. It is polite to address older individuals with proper titles and show deference in conversation and interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Pokhara
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pokhara, Nepal, tipping is not customary but is appreciated for good service. It is not mandatory, but if you feel like the service was good, you can leave a small tip for waitstaff at restaurants, hotel staff, and tour guides.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Pokhara, Nepal. While some places may accept credit cards, it's always good to have cash on hand. ATMs are widely available in the city for convenient cash withdrawals. It's also important to note that bargaining is common in markets and smaller shops for certain goods and services.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Pokhara with blooming flowers, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
Monsoon season with heavy rainfall, making it less ideal for outdoor activities. However, the lush greenery and fewer tourists can make for a peaceful visit.
Another popular time to visit Pokhara with clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Ideal for trekking and adventure sports.
Cool temperatures with occasional fog and limited visibility. However, the off-peak season means fewer tourists and lower prices, making it a good time to visit for budget travelers.
Pokhara at Night
Hiking in Pokhara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Pokhara, Sarangkot offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range and is known for its sunrise and sunset vistas.
Famed for its breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Poon Hill is a popular trek that starts from Pokhara and offers a relatively moderate hike.
This trek leads through beautiful rhododendron forests and offers striking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. It can be accessed via a short drive from Pokhara.
A less-crowded trail that offers a gentle hike with views of Pokhara Valley and the surrounding mountains, ideal for a day trip.
A scenic viewpoint hike that provides a great setting for sunrise and sunset, Kahun Danda is located near Pokhara and is suitable for all skill levels.
Aiports
How to reach Pokhara by plane.
Located in Kathmandu, this is the primary international airport in Nepal and serves as the main gateway to the country, approximately 200 km from Pokhara.
Located in Lumbini, this airport serves as another international airport in Nepal, approximately 300 km from Pokhara, and is near the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
Although a domestic airport, it is one of the larger regional airports located near Chitwan National Park and is approximately 150 km from Pokhara.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A prominent ethnic group in Pokhara, known for their rich culture and traditions.
A Hindu caste that plays a significant role in the social and religious structure of the region.
An ethnic group with a significant presence in and around Pokhara, known for their warrior heritage.
An ethnic group known for their cuisine and traditional hospitality, particularly in the Mustang region.
An ethnic group with a distinct culture, primarily known for their craftsmanship and trade.
Part of the Kshatriya caste, contributing to the agricultural and military traditions.
An ethnic group predominantly found in the hilly regions, known for their Buddhist beliefs.
Comprising various marginalized communities that face social and economic challenges.
Includes various minority communities and migrants contributing to the diverse demographic landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Pokhara is famous for its paragliding opportunities, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and Phewa Lake.
Trekking is a major activity in and around Pokhara, with trails leading to the Annapurna Circuit and other scenic areas.
Futsal has gained popularity in Pokhara, with many facilities available for both casual and competitive games.
The adventurous sport of bungee jumping attracts thrill-seekers to Pokhara, with breathtaking locations.
Canoeing and rowing on Phewa Lake are popular recreational activities, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene environment.
The rugged terrains around Pokhara offer excellent routes for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Pokhara provides various rock climbing spots that challenge both beginners and experienced climbers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pokhara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Finding vegetarian and vegan options is relatively easy in Pokhara, particularly at cafes like OR2K, Nourishment Cafe, and Fresh Elements. Local eateries often offer vegetable curries and lentil-based dishes as well.
While gluten-free dining options may be more limited, several restaurants such as Moondance and OR2K are accommodating and can adjust their dishes to cater to gluten-free requirements upon request.