Pokhara
Nestled at the foot of the Annapurna range, Pokhara (827m altitude) is Nepal's second largest city and adventure tourism hub. Known for its tranquil lakes, stunning mountain views, and relaxed atmosphere, it receives over 500,000 visitors annually.
Pokhara at a Glance
| Feature |
Details |
| Population |
~400,000 (metropolitan area) |
| Elevation |
827m (2,713ft) above sea level |
| Distance from Kathmandu |
200km (6-7 hours by road, 25min flight) |
| Climate |
Subtropical (15°C-30°C), monsoon rains June-September |
| Main Industries |
Tourism, agriculture, handicrafts |
Top Attractions
Fewa Lake
- Second largest lake in Nepal (4.43 sq km)
- Boating with views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain)
- Tal Barahi Temple on island center
- Lakeside promenade with cafes and shops
- Best visited at sunrise for mirror-like reflections
Sarangkot Viewpoint
- 1,592m hill overlooking Pokhara valley
- Famous sunrise views of Annapurna range
- Prime paragliding launch site
- 30-minute drive or 2-hour hike from lakeside
- 360° panorama including Dhaulagiri and Manaslu
Adventure Activities
| Activity |
Season |
Duration |
Approx. Cost (USD) |
| Paragliding |
Sep-Nov, Mar-May |
30-60 min flight |
$80-$120 |
| Trekking (Annapurna) |
Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr |
3-21 days |
$25-$100/day |
| Zip Flying |
Year-round |
2-3 hours |
$50-$80 |
| Ultralight Flight |
Sep-May |
30-60 min |
$150-$250 |
| Canyoning |
Sep-Nov |
Full day |
$70-$100 |
Cultural Highlights
- International Mountain Museum: Documents Himalayan climbing history
- Gurkha Memorial Museum: Honors legendary Nepali soldiers
- Bindhyabasini Temple: Important Hindu shrine with city views
- Old Bazaar: Traditional market with Newari architecture
- Gupteshwor Cave: Sacred cave with Shiva shrine behind Davis Falls
Neighborhood Guide
| Area |
Character |
Best For |
| Lakeside |
Tourist center with hotels and restaurants |
First-time visitors, nightlife |
| Damside |
Quieter lakeside alternative |
Peaceful stays, long-term visitors |
| Pardi |
Developing area near airport |
Budget travelers |
| Baidam |
Between lakeside and city center |
Local experience |
| Old Pokhara |
Traditional bazaar area |
Cultural immersion |
Transportation Options
- Taxis: NPR 300-800 within city (negotiate first)
- Local Buses: NPR 20-50 for city routes
- Bicycle Rental: $3-5/day for exploring lakeside
- Scooter Rental: $10-15/day (international license required)
- Rickshaws: Short hops around lakeside (NPR 100-200)
Where to Stay
| Type |
Price Range |
Areas |
Features |
| Luxury Resorts |
$100-$300/night |
Lakeside, Rupa Lake |
Mountain views, spas, pools |
| Boutique Hotels |
$50-$150/night |
Lakeside, Damside |
Local charm, gardens |
| Guesthouses |
$15-$50/night |
Lakeside, Baidam |
Basic amenities, social |
| Hostels |
$5-$15/bed |
Lakeside, Pardi |
Dorms, backpacker vibe |
Day Trips from Pokhara
- Begnas Lake: Less crowded alternative to Fewa (30min drive)
- Rupa Lake: Serene fishing village atmosphere (45min drive)
- Bandipur: Preserved Newari hill town (3hr drive)
- Muktinath: Sacred Hindu-Buddhist site (scenic flight available)
- Annapurna Base Camp: Helicopter day tours available
Essential Travel Tips
- Best visited October-November (clear skies) or March-April (spring blooms)
- Carry cash (NPR) as many places don't accept cards
- Bargain politely for taxis and souvenirs
- Respect local customs - dress modestly at religious sites
- Altitude sickness unlikely but stay hydrated
- Purchase trekking permits in advance for Annapurna region